The idea for the tour came from Axl Rose, but the singer was rejected
Three of the biggest rock bands almost went on tour together in 1993. Almost, because Pearl Jam refused the invitation without hesitation.
At the time, the band led by Eddie Vedder was enjoying the success of their debut album Ten and its successor Vs. when Guns N' Roses became interested in their work and invited the group to participate in a joint tour.
According to Doug Goldstein, Guns N' Roses' manager, the idea came from the band's vocalist: "Axl [Rose] approached me one morning and said, 'I don't care if we're the opening act, I don't care if we don't get paid, I want to do one or two shows bringing us together, Pearl Jam, with U2 closing. Could you call everyone?' I said, 'Sure.'"
Paul McGuiness, U2's manager, immediately agreed, but according to Goldstein, Kelly Curtis, Pearl Jam's manager, refused the offer without even asking the band: “I asked if he (Kelly) was available and received a no. I insisted, but heard him say he didn't give a damn. When I finally managed to make the offer, Kelly refused immediately. I asked if he wouldn't consult the band and Kelly told me not to interfere in his work.”
Check out the full interview below:
