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Former drummer for Guns N’ Roses, Matt Sorum, has cast doubt on the likelihood of Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler returning to the touring scene. Sorum’s remarks come shortly after Tyler’s performance at the sixth annual Jam for Janie Grammy Awards Viewing Party, where Sorum served as the Musical Director. This event marked one of Tyler’s rare appearances since he sustained a vocal injury in 2023, which led to the suspension of Aerosmith’s touring plans. It also followed the band’s announcement regarding their decision to retire from touring in August 2024.
During the event, Tyler performed alongside Nuno Bettencourt from Extreme, delivering renditions of songs by the band as well as Led Zeppelin. The show featured a star-studded lineup, including musicians like Mick Fleetwood, Lainey Wilson, Chris Robinson from the Black Crowes, Jessie J, and bassist Tom Hamilton. Despite the electrifying atmosphere and positive audience reception, Sorum expressed skepticism about Tyler’s ability to embark on another extensive tour, citing the physical and mental challenges associated with such an undertaking.
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Sorum elaborated on the situation during an interview with Joe Rock from Long Island’s WBAB, which was later reported by Blabbermouth. He explained, “Some fans were a bit surprised he could still perform. It was a significant moment for him after his injury. However, he’s not going to tour again, as the demands and pressures of international touring are too intense.”
He continued, stressing that Tyler, now 77, is devoted to his craft and faces intense scrutiny over his performances, stating, “He’s an artist and a perfectionist. If he can’t deliver the song perfectly, he won’t perform it.” Sorum further noted that Tyler has no interest in mimicking performances or adjusting song keys, maintaining his artistic integrity.
Sorum recounted discussions he had with Tyler about the possibility of doing a limited number of songs in the future: “We talked about it multiple times. He mentioned he could do a few songs, but this is an exception rather than the rule.”
Initially, there was speculation that Tyler’s recent performance could signal an Aerosmith reunion, which would have marked their first appearance since September 2023. Tyler’s last full performance took place just before a serious vocal injury led to the cancellation of Aerosmith’s concerts, which ultimately culminated in the band’s retirement from live performances.
Tyler suffered a larynx fracture during a performance in Elmont, New York, on September 9, 2023, which halted the band’s planned shows for their Peace Out tour. In January, Tom Hamilton provided an update on Tyler’s health to Boston’s WBUR, indicating that while there might be future plans for Aerosmith, nothing is guaranteed, as the decision would ultimately rest with Tyler himself. “If we do anything in the future, it would come from him,” Hamilton noted, emphasizing the importance of not pressuring Tyler into a return.
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