Guns N’ Roses announced on social media recently it is splitting with longtime drummer Frank Ferrer.

“The band thanks Frank for his friendship, creativity and sturdy presence over the 19 years, and wish him success in the next chapter of his musical journey,” the statement on Instagram read. “Frank first joined GNR during a show in June 2006 helping anchor the rhythm section during subsequent tours, including their recent outings featuring the reunited trio of Axl rose, Slash and Duff McKagan. His last show with the band took place November 5, 2023 in Mexico.”

Ferrer, 58, first joined founding members Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan nearly 20 years ago for a show in Dessel, Belgium.

According to The New York Post, although he was initially only meant to be a two-week replacement for Bryan “Brain” Mantia, Ferrer was named the band’s official drummer that October.

Ferrer opened up in January about joining Guns N’ Roses with My Global Mind.

“I’m trying to keep it all inside, but in my mind, it’s like, bing, bing, bing, bing, bing, and exploding, of course,” Ferrer said regarding his first official show with the “Paradise City” band. “It was initially only going to be a temporary thing. It was only going to be for two weeks.

“But in my heart, I felt like, if I could really do well on this, even if it’s just for two weeks, then it could open up a lot of doors,” he continued. “So, I didn’t have any fear. A matter of fact, it was the complete opposite. I felt like, okay, I’m ready for this.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.