Guns N’ Roses surprised fans during their May 27 show in Abu Dhabi by performing a special cover live for the very first time.
The song? “Human Being” by the New York Dolls, a band led by the late David Johansen, who passed away two months ago at age 75 after battling cancer.
Though Guns N’ Roses didn’t directly mention Johansen during the show, their choice to play this 1974 punk rock classic felt like a heartfelt tribute.
The song originally appeared on the New York Dolls’ album Too Much Too Soon. Guns N’ Roses had recorded their own version of “Human Being” back in 1993 for their covers album The Spaghetti Incident?, but this was the first time they brought it to the stage.
In fan-recorded videos, Axl Rose can be heard singing with his usual raw energy:
“Well, if you don’t like it / Go ahead, find yourself a saint / Go ahead, now try to find a boy / Who’s gonna be what I ain’t,”
backed by powerful guitars and a fast beat.
The chorus captures the song’s rebellious spirit perfectly:
“And if I’m acting like a king / Well, that’s cause I’m a human being / And if I want too many things / Don’t you know that I’m a human being.”
David Johansen’s bold style and punk attitude clearly inspired Axl Rose and the rest of Guns N’ Roses. From their teased hair and makeup to the punk songs they’ve covered over the years, Johansen’s influence runs deep. Their Spaghetti Incident? album also included covers of other punk legends like The Damned, The Stooges, and the Sex Pistols.
Right now, Guns N’ Roses are touring Europe on their Because What You Want & What You Get Are Completely Different Things tour, sharing the stage with Public Enemy, Rival Sons, and the Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter. Their next stop is Shekvetili Park in Georgia on May 30.
This tribute to Johansen shows how much his music still matters to rock stars today.
