Guns N’ Roses bassist Duff McKagan has released “Chip Away,” the newest track from him forthcoming solo album Tenderness. Hear it now in the player below.
“‘Chip Away’ is somewhat of a rail against cable news and divisive agendas… all for the almighty dollar,” explained McKagan in a statement. “The song also highlights the fact that history repeats itself over and over, and that we will all get past this, together.”
“Chip Away” follows the recent release of the album’s lead track and both songs are available as instant downloads when you pre-order the album on iTunes and Amazon Music.
Tenderness sees McKagan reflecting on his experiences traveling the globe over two and a half years on Guns N’ Roses’ Not In This Lifetime tour. Encountering heartbreak, anger, fear, confusion and divide on his travels during this tumultuous time in our world history, McKagan channeled a collective hurt into songs of monolithic power.
“We’re becoming divided at a time when we need each other most,” says McKagan. “When huge industries get replaced because of modernization, it’s time to retrain and bolster up those who get swept aside. Homelessness and drug addiction are avoidable in this country if we come together and get private and public cogs turning together in a positive direction. We can at least try to tackle mental illness while we’re at it. But alas, we stump and lie, point fingers and divide. We’re way better than this. As a father, I must say and do something now because I love my girls and my wife, and I love my country, and I feel I must be strong and use my voice now, do it while I’m able or perhaps never get a chance ever again.”
Produced by Shooter Jennings, the album features 11 tracks recorded in Echo Park, CA’s Station House. Jennings and his band are also featured on the album.
Tenderness is due out May 31st. McKagan and Jennings will kick off a North American tour in support of the album on May 30th in Philadelphia. See a full list of dates below.
Duff McKagan – Tenderness Track Listing
1.Tenderness
2. It’s Not Too Late
3. Wasted Heart
4. Falling Down
5. Last September
6. Chip Away
7. Cold Outside
8. Feel
9. Breaking Rocks
10. Parkland
11. Don’t Look Behind You
Duff McKagan Tour Dates
May 30 – Philadelphia, PA – TLA
May 31 – Washington, DC – City Winery
Jun 01 – Boston, MA – City Winery
Jun 03 – New York, NY – Irving Plaza
Jun 06 – Chicago, IL – Thalia Hall
Jun 08 – Nashville, TN – The Cannery
Jun 10 – Austin, TX – Scoot Inn
Jun 13 – Los Angeles, CA – El Rey Theater
Jun 14 – San Francisco, CA – Great American Music Hall
Jun 15 – Portland, OR – Aladdin
Jun 16 – Seattle, WA – The Showbox