Guns N’ Roses Revive ‘Bad Apples’ After 35 Years in Electrifying São Paulo Show

Experience the thrill as Guns N’ Roses dust off ‘Bad Apples’ for the first time since 1991 during their 2026 world tour stop in São Paulo.

A Legendary Return to São Paulo’s Stage

Every so often, a band pulls off a moment that sends shivers down the spine of devoted fans – and Guns N’ Roses did exactly that at the latest stop of their 2026 world tour in São Paulo. At the sprawling Allianz Parque, nestled in the bustling heart of Brazil, the rock legends gave fans a night packed with nostalgia, fan favorites, and a special surprise: the live resurrection of “Bad Apples,” a track they hadn’t performed since the early ’90s.

Guns N’ Roses taking São Paulo by storm on their 2026 Monsters Of Rock Brazil show.

The 2026 World Tour: A Rock Revival

The band’s mammoth 2026 tour kicked off just days prior in Monterrey, Mexico, marking the start of what feels like a global rock revival. São Paulo’s show on April 4 was part of the legendary Monsters Of Rock festival, where Guns N’ Roses ripped through a setlist brimming with hits and deep cuts alike.

Fans were treated not only to classics like “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Sweet Child O’ Mine” but also to some poignant covers. The band delivered electrifying renditions of Black Sabbath’s “Junior’s Eyes,” Bob Dylan’s timeless “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door,” Wings’ “Live And Let Die,” and The Damned’s punk-infused “New Rose.” This mix gave the night a dynamic range, showcasing the band’s roots and influences across hard rock and punk.

‘Bad Apples’: A Rare Gem Brought Back to Life

The crowning moment of the evening was the performance of “Bad Apples” from their 1991 album Use Your Illusion I. This track is something of a cult favorite, rarely played live, making its appearance all the more electrifying. Remarkably, this was only the third time Guns N’ Roses have ever performed “Bad Apples” live, and the first time in 35 years.

For those who grew up with the band in the late ’80s and early ’90s, hearing this rare track live again was like uncovering a hidden treasure. It’s the kind of deep cut that hardcore fans dream about, and the energy in the stadium when it kicked in was palpable.

Check out the unforgettable performance here:

The Night’s Complete Setlist: An Epic Rock Journey

Here’s a rundown of the songs Guns N’ Roses played that night, each one a sonic blast from the past or a fresh showcase of their latest material:

• Welcome To The Jungle
• Slither
• It’s So Easy
• Live And Let Die (Wings cover)
• Mr. Brownstone
• Bad Obsession
• Rocket Queen
• Perhaps
• Dead Horse
• Double Talkin’ Jive
• Nothin’ (one of their new singles)
• You Could Be Mine
• Civil War
• Junior’s Eyes (Black Sabbath cover)
• Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door (Bob Dylan cover)
• New Rose (The Damned cover)
• Atlas (new single)
• Sweet Child O’ Mine
• Estranged
• Bad Apples
• November Rain
• Nightrain
• Paradise City

The setlist was an impressive blend of their iconic hits, beloved covers, and fresh tunes, reflecting the band’s evolution and staying power.

A New Chapter With Changes in the Lineup

This 2026 tour marks a new era for Guns N’ Roses following the departure of longtime drummer Frank Ferrer after nearly two decades with the band. His exit has reshaped the rhythm section, while keyboardist Melissa Reese is notably absent from the tour due to personal reasons, which adds a bittersweet note to the live experience.

Despite these changes, the band remains a powerhouse, delivering performances full of grit and heart, showing no signs of slowing down.

Fresh Tracks and Future Prospects

The opening night in Monterrey wasn’t just a warm-up; it was the debut of two new songs, “Nothin’” and “Atlas,” released in December last year. Hearing these new tracks live gave fans a glimpse of the band’s creative direction and hinted at exciting new material on the horizon.

Adding to the anticipation, guitarist Slash recently hinted that new Guns N’ Roses music is in the works. “Everybody is thinking about it,” he teased, fueling rumors of an upcoming album that could reignite the band’s legendary status even further.

Upcoming Tour Dates: From Florida to Europe and Back

Looking ahead, the band plans to heat up Florida with two shows in May, followed by an extensive European leg throughout June and July. The European run kicks off with back-to-back shows in Poland, a stop in Dublin, and a standout appearance at the UK’s Download Festival.

Following the European tour, Guns N’ Roses will return to North America for a summer and early fall stretch, starting in North Carolina on July 23 and wrapping up in Georgia on September 19. This sprawling itinerary promises fans across the globe a chance to experience the band’s electrifying live presence.

Slash’s Candid Take on the Las Vegas Sphere

In recent discussions, Slash expressed skepticism about the band performing at the Las Vegas Sphere, suggesting that the venue “isn’t really rock and roll friendly.” His candid comments reflect the band’s commitment to maintaining their raw, electric energy in venues that suit their style best.

Reflecting on a Night to Remember

Watching Guns N’ Roses bring “Bad Apples” back to life after 35 years was more than just a nostalgia trip—it was a celebration of their enduring spirit and connection with fans. The São Paulo crowd was treated to a masterclass in rock history, with the band effortlessly weaving together their past and present.

“They played ‘Bad Apples’, from 1991’s ‘Use Your Illusion I’, for the first time since the year the song was released and for only the third time ever.”

This rare moment serves as a reminder why Guns N’ Roses remains one of rock’s most beloved and enduring acts.

FAQ

• What makes the performance of ‘Bad Apples’ in São Paulo so special?
  It was the first time Guns N’ Roses played the track live since 1991, only the third performance ever, making it a rare treat for fans.
• Which covers did Guns N’ Roses play during their São Paulo show?
  They covered Black Sabbath’s “Junior’s Eyes,” Bob Dylan’s “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door,” Wings’ “Live And Let Die,” and The Damned’s “New Rose.”
• Are there any new songs featured in the 2026 tour setlist?
  Yes, the band debuted “Nothin’” and “Atlas,” both released in December before the tour began.
• Has the band’s lineup changed for this tour?
  Yes, longtime drummer Frank Ferrer left the band last year, and keyboardist Melissa Reese is sitting out this tour.
• Will Guns N’ Roses be touring outside North and South America?
  Absolutely, they have scheduled a European tour in June and July, including shows in Poland, Dublin, and the UK’s Download Festival.

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