Steven Tyler: Aerosmith ‘Not Happy’ With Solo Country Album

The news that Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler would be releasing a country album didn't fare well with everyone -- specifically, the other members of Tyler's longtime band.

"I'm sure they're not happy," Tyler tells Rolling Stone Country. "But Joe [Perry] has done five solo albums. I just thought, 'Hey, it's my turn in the barrel.'

"This is a side project, which has now turned into a love of life," he 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."

Still, Tyler makes it clear that he isn't leaving his band for a new career as a solo country artist. In fact, Aersomith just kicked off a summer tour, on which they'll be performing some of their biggest hits. The trek is scheduled to run until early August.

"Joe Perry is one of the last great touring guitar legends." Tyler says. "The energy I feel with this band is ridonculous. I feel better than I ever did. We're going to kick some ass."

The 67-year-old notes that there really isn't much difference between his rock band and his country music.

"Country songs really spell out what's on a guy's mind in no uncertain terms," Tyler 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. Modern country might add a little a cappella 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."

Tyler's debut country single, "Love Is Your Name," is in the Top 40 and climbing. No word yet on when his full country album will be released.

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