newsmakers

newsmakers

Guns N’ Roses rift threatens reunion

LONDON

Will Guns N’ Roses reunite for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Behind his dark glasses, hat and big hair, the group’s former guitarist Slash is staying noncommittal on the subject.

The million-selling hard-rock group enters the Rock Hall in Cleveland on April 14, an event at which honored acts often perform as part of the celebration.

But the group’s original lineup fell apart in 1996, so fans hoping to see the band reunite may be disappointed.

Slash says of the induction: “It’s definitely an honor, and I have no idea what’s going to happen on that day.”

Instead, he is busy with his latest solo album, “Apocalyptic Love,” due out in May.

N. Koreans, French ready historic concert

PARIS

A North Korean and a French orchestra have had a daylong rehearsal ahead of a landmark concert in Paris.

Pyongyang’s Unhasu Orchestra and Radio France Philharmonic make their debut together today — under the baton of noted South Korean conductor Chung Myung-Whun, who organized the event.

During Tuesday’s rehearsal, Pyongyang orchestra spokesman Kwon Hyok Bong said in reference to France that the joint concert “is a historical event for the bilateral relations of our two countries.”

The Seoul-born conductor hopes the rival Koreas can find common ground through music that dates to a time “when there was no division and we could all just be free.”

Most of the 90 North Koreans will be performing with a Western ensemble for the first time.

Doobie Brothers drummer Hossack dies

SONOMA, Calif.

Longtime Doobie Brothers drummer Michael Hossack has died at age 65.

The band’s manager, Bruce Cohn, said in a statement that Hossack died of cancer Monday in his home in Dubois, Wyo.

Hossack played with the group from 1971 to 1973 and rejoined in 1987. His drumming can be heard on early hits including “Listen To The Music,” “China Grove” and “Blackwater.” He stopped performing with the band two years ago while struggling with cancer.

Doobie Brothers co-founder Tom Johnston said, “Mike has always been a part of my musical life and the life of the Doobie Brothers ... He was an incredible musician.”

Vindicator wire services