Nuno Bettencourt: Comfort in Chaos

Does he have any issues with being that guy?

“No,” he says.

“That song was a big hit in the mainstream world, but not everyone comes from that place. And I don’t get tired of people enjoying something I’ve done.”

The Kings of Chaos concept, which sees superstars from bands including Guns ‘N Roses, Velvet Revolver and Aerosmith getting together to play each other’s songs, is built around nostalgia; so it in fact relies on the revisiting of old material. Bettencourt joins the touring line-up this year alongside core members Matt Sorum, Duff McKagan and Gilbey Clarke and fellow guests Steven Tyler, Billy Gibbons and Robin Zander.

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“I think the draw with Kings Of Chaos is that it’s something that people will only ever see once,” says Bettencourt.

“It’s pretty clear when Matt puts each new band together that it’s about love and respect for the work of everyone else.”

Choosing a setlist must provide an opportunity for a bit of friction?

“It’s about the audience – what they will love and what is iconic for them,” says Bettencourt.

Picture: Supplied

“The artists may throw something of their own in from time to time, but it’s more about creating something spectacular.”

South Africa is a popular destination for Kings Of Chaos, which seems strange, given the relatively small rock audiences locally.

“There’s a mutual attraction,” says Bettencourt.

“We look forward to coming – there are great fans and such beautiful things to see.”