AXL ROSE SPLITS WITH MERCK

His statement read: "When I agreed to do our recent North American tour, I agreed with the understanding that I and my manager Merck Mercuriadis were in full agreement as to our strategy, touring plans and most importantly that any and all things needed to release the album at the latest by December 26 were to be in place. Unfortunately this turned out not to be the case, and I regret to say again the album will not be released by the end of the year. This was compounded by an overall sense of a lack of respect by management for the band and crew and each individual's particular expertise that has resulted unfortunately in the end of... my relationship in having a management or sense of band involvement with Merck Mercuriadis."

To see the full text of the letter, go here. Rose canceled G'NR shows in Sacramento (1/10), Bakersfield (1/11), Reno (1/13) and San Diego (1/16), then announced the new release date for the album would be March 6.

For Merck’s response, go here. “I have no regrets,” he said. “I believe Chinese Democracy is one of the best albums ever made… I believe in Axl Rose. I will walk away knowing I have done my best and that next year will see Axl recognized not only as a great singer and rock icon but as one of the greatest artists of all time."