How would you respond if an Eagle started replying to criticisms here?

[sodascouts]

I was reading this GNR fan forum (http://www.mygnrforum.com/index.php?/topic/133020-axl-rose-chat-1-mygnrforum-dec-12-2008/page__st__90%3Cbr%20/%3E) where Axl Rose, as "Dexter", came out of nowhere and started posting on it, replying to his critics and then also to some fans on the message board. It was really interesting to see the board members' reactions and what they said to him.

How would you react if, out of nowhere, one of the Eagles or former Eagles started posting here to reply to things members (maybe even you) have said? For instance, what if Don Felder came on here and started replying to criticisms of his book? Or Don Henley started replying to criticisms about his attitude towards YouTube? Stuff like that. If you posted the criticism, would you immediately apologize or would you try to debate him? If you weren't one of the posters criticizing, would you make sure to let him know you agreed with him? Would you just stay quiet, your mind effectively blown? Would you take the convo in another direction - ask him unrelated questions, tell him how you feel about his music, etc.?

Let me make it clear that this is just a hypothetical scenario and one I have absolutely no reason to believe would ever happen, but I thought it would be interesting to envisage it despite its lack of likelihood. Any thoughts? Be honest!

[VAisForEagleLovers]

I guess it would depend on the criticism, the Eagle, and his reaction to it. Most of my criticisms, correct me if I'm wrong, are along the lines 'you guys are so good we want more'. More tours, longer shows, and just in case an Eagle is reading this, if Don could hurry his CD along that would be great!

Since I seldom if ever post things I don't mean (good or bad), I'd be more likely to apologize for my wording or tone. I might say I'm sorry they don't agree with me. Agreeing with them against another board member might be appropriate, but unlikely.

Mostly, I think I'd just fall over into a faint, and I probably wouldn't believe it's really them anyway.

[BramwenR]

I'm really glad you brought this up, Nancy because fans prefer to hear it directly from the artist, not some manufactured version of what the press overhype or gossip columnists write to push their mostly irreverant and irrelevant points.

The amount of discussion on fan forums is generated by rumours and then information gets blown out of proportion; especially the really big ones such as Il Divo, for example. I don't know about Axl Rose's forum because I have never visited there and let's face it, the whole reason a forum is there is to sell the artist to the public via the PR machine and to gauge the responses of fans.

If an Eagle came on here in defence of criticisms I would answer honestly and sincerely because a sycophant I am not. I am well known over on the Il Divo forum for speaking my mind and quite frankly, I would welcome the opportunity to debate any issue with any one of the boys because I know they would do the same. I also respect their intelligence and consummate professionalism as musicians and would keep the discussion about that, unless they broached anything in their private lives which again, I would analyse and try to be as fair and honest as possible.

What is sadly lacking on fan forums today is the lack of respect for the artist/s' craft and I find that very demeaning, in terms of the hard yards put in and the amount of energy that is poured into interviews in the print and electronic media.

The real culprits here are the media who are the ones who fuel the need for artists to address criticism directly to fans when quite often it is unfounded.

So bring it on! I am a writer, former researcher and trained in various areas of the media so I have a healthy respect for a little debate and I especially prefer it from the horse's mouth! Judgement should be based on merit and truth and if it is not, it paints the musician in a bad light.

I couldn't wait to get started asking questions about their music because that is all that matters to me. I couldn't care less about their personal stuff or some of the tasteless gossip, I just want to know about their music and for the record, I give as good as I get ;)

[Windeagle]

It would depend on the topic. I'm generally pretty shy and sometimes take things too personally, so if it was harsh criticism from one of the guys to something I said, I'd likely run and hide.

That said, I usually don't post anything that would be likely to prompt harsh criticism. I try to follow the "if you can't say something nice or at least constructive, don't say anything at all" rule. I also try to stay away from heavy-duty personal comments. If I like a picture, I might say so, but I don't usually go into intimate detail. Usually. ;)

Now, if one of them opened up a conversation about their music, I'd be all over it. When it comes to how something is played, or how they came up with an idea, or what did they mean by that lyric, I would happily discuss it all day. I love hearing little anecdotes that give some insight into what went into the writing or recording of a song. That's why l like buying CDs instead of downloading. I'm a liner note junkie. One of the best things about No Fun Aloud and Strange Weather, IMO, are the little comments in the notes before each song. It gives a little insight into where Glenn's head was at when he was doing each piece.

[Glennsallnighter]

I think I would have to take the comment objectively in the context of how it was offered. I don't think I have ever criticised their music, either solo or group, but if one of them felt I had I guess I would try to explain where my criticism came from. And that it wasn't a personal criticism of the composer/singer(s).

If it was a policy criticism (the most conversation generated here would have been around the suits/no suits issue) I would read what they had to say and then perhaps reply in the context of what was said. But I would also comment again that it wasn't a personal criticism and would not mean to offend anybody. And that I'm sure the band and their management have reasons for the policies that they adopt and I would respect that.

It would really depend on the issue and the context.

If I thought I said or posted something on the Board that genuinely upset one of the Eagles, and he called me out on it I would apologise and offer to remove the post.

[VAisForEagleLovers]

I try to follow the "if you can't say something nice or at least constructive, don't say anything at all" rule. I also try to stay away from heavy-duty personal comments. If I like a picture, I might say so, but I don't usually go into intimate detail. Usually. ;)

My grandma drummed that into my head for thirty-five years and between that and the Golden Rule, I try to live my entire life that way. There are times I fail miserably at it, one of which is the Don Felder book review thread. Even if a person really means something, it doesn't mean it needs to be posted.

As for the second part of the quote above, WE, you don't need to comment in detail because we all know what you're thinking anyway :grin:

[Freypower]

I guess it would depend on the criticism, the Eagle, and his reaction to it. Most of my criticisms, correct me if I'm wrong, are along the lines 'you guys are so good we want more'. More tours, longer shows, and just in case an Eagle is reading this, if Don could hurry his CD along that would be great!

Since I seldom if ever post things I don't mean (good or bad), I'd be more likely to apologize for my wording or tone. I might say I'm sorry they don't agree with me. Agreeing with them against another board member might be appropriate, but unlikely.

Mostly, I think I'd just fall over into a faint, and I probably wouldn't believe it's really them anyway.

This probably sums up my approach. I have strong opinions & I welcome debate. I would apologise if necessary. Most of my ongoing criticism concerns the setlist.

[zeldabjr]

I'm such a chicken at heart...I'd run the other way...I don't know why because the internet is so anonymous...there are things I might want to ask...especially about song writing..ie inspirations, techniques...stuff like that...but probably would be too chicken...then again..I am surprising myself lately in a lot of ways...would like to think I could have a constructive discussion but would probably end up being "fan girl"...Oh I love you guys so much...you can do no wrong to me...that kind of stuff...yeah that's me...

[Windeagle]

As for the second part of the quote above, WE, you don't need to comment in detail because we all know what you're thinking anyway :grin:

:blush: Aww, is it that obvious? :grin:

[sodascouts]

I have been critical occasionally, although of course I don't think unreasonably so, and hopefully it's fairly clear how much I love the guys! In such a situation, I think I would try to walk a thin line because I wouldn't want to back down but I wouldn't want to piss the guy off, either, or drive him away. I guess I would just take extra care with my wording - soften the edges a bit without taking away from the meaning. I would probably also be sure to remind him at the end of my post what a huge fan I am! lol

[TimothyBFan]

First--- What were you doing on a GNR forum? :stunned: And I really need to go check that out. Dexter? That sounds hysterical!!!

In answer to the real question- one of my biggest pet peeves are people who say things and then when told they shouldn't have said it, turn around and recant. Ones that come to mind immediately are Mel Gibson, certain politicians, other actors. My opinion is, if you said it, you obviously meant it, doesn't mean everyone has to like your opinion and agrees with it.

That being said, I understand that we don't always say things that we are passionate about as respectfully as we should. So by all means, apologize for the way you said it, but if you truly meant it, hold true to your convictions.

So with that in mind, I would defend myself to the very end. Sorry Don, but I truly don't like the way you guys take down all the wonderful videos that us fans love so much. Sorry Don F., but I feel that you acted like an adolescent rather that an adult when handling the fact you were fired from the band. Etc.....

I would respect what they have to say, and let's face it, the way they would defend/debate/approach the board would be totally different from the way, I'm sure, Axl did on the GNR board. I can't wait to go see THAT!! I bet that will be good comic relief for later today.

[Topkat]

You know, there isn't much negative stuff on here. I hesitate to write anything negative about them, due to the fact that I think some members here may jump all over it. Any negative feelings I have, I usually keep to myself. I have learned that fans get very defensive on the boards. I really doubt any of them would respond to it, or that they even read here, but if they did, I would probably stick with my point without arguing.

I think Don knows that people don't agree with his hate for YouTube, but I think the other Eagles have accepted that this is the age we live in & YouTube isn't going anywhere. As for Don Felder, I think he has probably heard some negative stuff about his book, but I think he would expect that. Every celebrity has negative stuff written about them, & many choose just to ignore it or not even bother to read it. It's part of the deal when you are famous. I think the Eagles would never respond to this stuff. It's just not their style.

I didn't see the stuff that Axl wrote, but with him, there is A LOT of bitching & negative comments, but he is really a strange guy and has done a lot of things to upset the G&R fans. I guess maybe he feels the need to defend his actions, but I don't think that will change anything. Still, it's interesting that he would respond to it because most don't. He has alienated many G&R fans by his actions over the years, but many won't bother to see him now due to his antics, which is why I haven't seen them since the 80's when they were the original band. I would be interested to see what Axl had to say. What board is this on? I am not on any G&R board.

[Victim of Love]

I have to agree with TK that there really isn't much negative here and what little bit there is I've always seen as (1) constructive criticism and/or (2) personal opinion (i.e., "IMHO"). However, if I ever found myself in a position to debate or defend my position with one of the guys I would be very open to an honest discussion. In adddition to the 'if you can't say anything nice' adage, I also endorse "you're entitled to your opinion and I'm entitled to mine" -- or maybe better put, "you respect my opinion and I'll respect yours". After all, if everyone felt the same way about everything, this would be a pretty boring world. Beside, I'm the first to admit that I've changed my opinion or position on an issue as a result of open, honest discussion, debate, and exchange of ideas and thoughts. Bring 'em on!

[sodascouts]

First--- What were you doing on a GNR forum? :stunned:


I was trying to find out whether the shirt rumor was true. I didn't want to spread false info.



In answer to the real question- one of my biggest pet peeves are people who say things and then when told they shouldn't have said it, turn around and recant.

I don't mind if they have seen the error of their ways and are truly sorry. It's fakers that tick me off.


I would respect what they have to say, and let's face it, the way they would defend/debate/approach the board would be totally different from the way, I'm sure, Axl did on the GNR board. I can't wait to go see THAT!! I bet that will be good comic relief for later today.

Yeah, I daresay none of the Eagles would be calling fans vulgar names and insulting them personally with all the finesse of a middle school bully.

[TimothyBFan]

In checking these out today, something occurred to me as members of those boards kept asking, "is it really Axl". How do you KNOW for sure that a member that comes in claiming to be someone really is that person? I mean he was using the name of Dexter but yet both administrators assured the members that it was indeed Axl Rose. How did they verify that? :headscratch: Just curious I guess.

[Topkat]

In checking these out today, something occurred to me as members of those boards kept asking, "is it really Axl". How do you KNOW for sure that a member that comes in claiming to be someone really is that person? I mean he was using the name of Dexter but yet both administrators assured the members that it was indeed Axl Rose. How did they verify that? :headscratch: Just curious I guess.

You know, now that I think about it. I bet that it is NOT AXL. I think they want people to believe it is him, but I really doubt that it really is him. Sorry, not buying it! He has never been on the boards before and anything he has to say, he can do in an interview. I'm sure that any of the radio guys or that guy Trump from "That Metal Show" would be happy to have him on to say whatever he wants. In fact, he'd be thrilled to have him on the show. To go on under some fake name, just seems ridiculous. I think its all just to drum up some more controversy.

[sodascouts]

I imagine the admins of both boards knew it was him because he contacted them directly. It's not very hard for admins to verify identity independently as well with things like IP locators.

[Topkat]

The thing is this...If he is using this fake name, "Dexter" and then it becomes known that this "Dexter" is really AXL, then why even use the fake name? It's just too bizarre. I think someone could "pretend" to be Axl online by getting around the admins somehow. There are a lot of very cleaver users out there with all kinds of techno knowledge.

[TimothyBFan]

I imagine the admins of both boards knew it was him because he contacted them directly. It's not very hard for admins to verify identity independently as well with things like IP locators.

I figured that also. Thanks for answering.

I don't doubt for a minute that was him. Of course he would do something out of the ordinary and not just an interview to clear things up. I bet he'd been trolling the boards (with his ego--of course he was) and when someone in that first board p*ssed him off at just the right time, he jumped. On the 2nd board, the adm said he had registered several hours before he started posting. He explained the user name of Dexter---the show and his cat who is also named after the show, so that totally makes sense why he used that name. How many of us use our real names?

[thelongrun]

First--- What were you doing on a GNR forum? :stunned: THAT WAS A GOOD ONE! LOL

My Answer:

I. We love you guys and your work but we have every right to crit., since We love you guys 1) and 2) You are Public persons

II. Your right to disagree is just as big as our right to crit.

III. It really won't be hard crit. We love you guys and your work.

Go to I. :headscratch:

[EaglesKiwi]

Yeah, I daresay none of the Eagles would be calling fans vulgar names and insulting them personally with all the finesse of a middle school bully.
Thank you for saying it. Vulgar is, if anything, an understatement!

One of the reasons I love belonging to The Border is because we don't tolerate nastiness. Criticism is generally specific: there is one aspect of the music or (less often) the person that we are commenting on, rather than making generalisations.

I would love the chance to robustly debate with any of the boys, although I think I would feel a bit uncomfortable with Felder, given some of the comments he made in his book and in interviews.

[lizzyplays]

I have mixed feelings on whether or not that was Axl. It 'sounds' like him, based on the kinds of reviews and things he has said in the past. I suppose if it was really him, those things could be checked, but it's easy enough to fake IP's and even computer ID's using software like VM. I used to like to play online casinos (for fun) but for the 'free money' they gave to new players. I was constantly using IP changers to make new accounts and when I ran across the really GOOD casinos with better software, I just added a new OS or changed my computer ID using VM or something. I also used to run a league that paid out cash money, and we had problems with cheaters, so we were well aware of the ins and outs of changing that stuff to hide your real identity. That doesn't mean anyone could fake Axl's real IP, but it does mean that someone sitting in Idaho can pretend to be in Los Angeles or Japan, if they really wanted to. Anyways, as incredible as it sounds that a star of his status would troll message boards, I find it easy to believe his ego would allow him to do just that. His answers and replies fitted the Axl personality that is already out there. Either someone did a lot of homework for such a short term gig, or it really was him. Makes me wonder if it would be that easy to pretend to be someone famous on another board (just for curiosity's sake!). And in agreement with everyone else, that board was horrid. Felt like I was in high school all over again. Only a select few were interested in having any kind of normal debate or conversation. The rest was just a Jerry Springer show waiting to happen. But, you would think that word was out about the forum and the real Axl would know about and if it wasn't him, he would have made that clear in the media. So, maybe it really was unless there's something out there to the contrary.

In response to the actual thread question... I would probably faint and that would be the end of my questioning. lol But seriously, I *think* that I would act the same, meaning if I liked something I would let them know and if I had a critique I would do the same. I think they would want that? Maybe? They are such perfectionists that perhaps suggestions would be welcome, or honest criticisms. It's a tough question to answer unless you were really faced with it!!! Wouldn't it be wonderful though if they showed up here... :-)