Guns N’ Roses guitarist Richard Fortus shared an unusual equipment malfunction during a recent performance on Instagram.
The incident occurred during the band’s May 23 concert in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Temperatures at the venue reached 113°F (45°C), leading to an unprecedented situation with his instrument.
‘Well this is a first. It was so hot in Saudi Arabia that the wax in my pickups melted!’ Fortus reported.
The malfunction took place during the band’s Saudi Arabian tour stop. The event highlighted the extreme weather conditions performers face during outdoor concerts.
The extreme weather incident spotlighted technical challenges that touring musicians encounter in harsh environments.
Guitar World reported the concert took place at the Mohammed Abdu Arena in Riyadh. The performance marked the band’s seventh date on this leg of their global tour after their shows in Japan.
Fortus played his signature Gretsch Falcon during the show. Music Radar detailed that the guitar’s humbucker pickups feature wax potting to reduce mechanical vibrations and protect internal components from moisture-related corrosion.
107.7 The Bone revealed the concert started after 10 PM to avoid peak heat. The temperatures remained extreme enough to affect the equipment. The pickup wax’s melting point fell below the ambient temperature, causing it to seep from the housing.
The guitar maintained its functionality during the show despite the unusual circumstances. The instrument required attention afterward. This incident has prompted discussions among musicians and gear enthusiasts about equipment durability in extreme weather conditions.
