November 12, 2009 11:44

Joe Perry: 'Aerosmith won't wait for Steven Tyler'

Guitarist says singer wants two years off from band

Photo: PA Photos

Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry has said the band "won't wait" for Steven Tyler to get back involved with the band after the singer stated that he's not leaving.

Tyler joined Perry on stage recently to make the declaration following rumours that he had left the rockers. Now Perry has told Billboard that Tyler wanted a two-year break from the band – but he wants to keep going.

"Aerosmith wants to work," Perry said. "We're gonna work and we're gonna do something – I'm not exactly sure what yet, but the band's too good to let it sit around. We're not going to wait for Steven."

The guitarist added that Tyler's appearance at his solo gig was a complete surprise. "He was really the last person I expected," he revealed. "I was really blown away that he came to the show. But he showed up and was really anxious to come and sit in and play so I figured, 'What the hell?'

"He's been my partner for 40 years, and I figured I'd let him have some fun and. Give the fans an extra treat."