In late 2009, Aerosmith planned to embark on a South American tour. However, Steven Tyler had other plans: he decided to focus on his solo career. Joe Perry then saw this break as an opportunity to tour the US to promote his solo album ‘Have Guitar, Will Travel.’ In November 2009, Tyler was still distant from the band, and this caused rumors that he might quit Aerosmith. The remaining members then looked for a new singer and thought of three singers to fill in for Steven Tyler.
It was hard to think of Aerosmith without Steven Tyler’s contributions. So, fans questioned whether this would be a temporary break or not. During that period, Aerosmith began looking for a replacement for the musician but didn’t announce anyone as their new lead singer. Despite Perry’s remarks, Tyler joined The Joe Perry Project on the same day at the Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza and performed ‘Walk This Way.’ He then assured the fans that he had no intention of leaving Aerosmith.
As reported by Ultimate Guitar, the first singer the band approached was Lenny Kravitz, but he refused to take Tyler’s role. After that, they contacted Billy Idol, but he fell sick before meeting with the band. In the end, they offered Paul Rodgers to replace Tyler.
Ultimate Guitar also reported in 2010 that Joe Perry never refused that they had talked to several singers to replace Tyler. He stated that they would sit comfortably and have their drinks during the auditions because they knew those singers already knew how to sing. However, the guitarist didn’t give any names, but it was understood that Perry knew the musicians Aerosmith approached were already successful and talented artists.
Photo: Getty Images North America