Steven Tyler Says Aerosmith ‘Not Happy’ With Country Solo Project

Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler’s recent foray into the country music scene apparently hasn’t been welcomed with open arms by everyone. Tyler recently told Rolling Stone Country he doubted it was going over well with the rest of the band.

“I’m sure they’re not happy,” Tyler explains, “But Joe [Perry] has done five solo albums. I just thought, ‘Hey, it’s my turn in the barrel.’"

Tyler released his first country single ‘Love Is Your Name’ back in May, and it is steadily climbing the Top 40 charts.

“This is a side project, which has now turned into a love of life,” the rock legend adds. “I think we got something here that the radio would love to play. Look, that’s why I’m in it. I love to take the f–ing power to wow to the 100th degree. It’s just what I do.”

Going from classic rock to country may seem like a long jump, but Tyler explains the genres aren’t really that different, after all. “Country songs really spell out what’s on a guy’s mind in no uncertain terms,” he explains.

“Rock ‘n’ roll can be a little more aloof. But country is changing. Jaren Johnston and the Cadillac Three and Florida Georgia Line are proving that you can go any which way," Tyler furthers, mentioning a few acts that have inspired him. "Modern country might add a little acappella or raps or heavier beats. God knows Brad Paisley plays guitar like a motherf–er. I think country is the new rock ‘n’ roll — everyone is trying to stretch out.”

Though his solo career is now in full force as the artist develops his first LP, Tyler is not giving up his day job. Fans can catch him and the rest of Aerosmith touring the U.S. and Canada this summer, bringing the hits to more than 15 cities through August.

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