Axel Rudi Pell (born 27 June 1960 in Bochum) is a German hard rock and heavy metal guitarist who launched his solo career in 1989 after leaving the speed metal band Steeler. Since then he has built one of the most consistent catalogues in European heavy metal - 23 studio albums released on Steamhammer/SPV, all sharing his signature blend of powerful riffs, neoclassical guitar work and melodic hard rock songwriting. Since 1998 his band has been anchored by American vocalist Johnny Gioeli, former Rainbow drummer Bobby Rondinelli, bassist Volker Krawczak and keyboardist Ferdy Doernberg.
Axel Rudi Pell released his 23rd studio album 'Ghost Town' on 20 March 2026 via Steamhammer/SPV, featuring a duet between Johnny Gioeli and Udo Dirkschneider.
The Ghost Town Tour 2026 kicked off in March and April across Germany and Switzerland, with Swiss melodic metal band Neverland as support act.
A second autumn leg of the Ghost Town Tour was announced for September and October 2026, adding dates in Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium and Austria.
Axel Rudi Pell extended his contract with Steamhammer/SPV, continuing a label relationship that stretches back 39 years.
The band released their 22nd studio album 'Risen Symbol' in 2024 and appeared at the Sweden Rock Festival the same year.
German rock guitarist Axel Rudi Pell brings his Ghost Town Tour 2026 to Cologne.
German rock guitarist Axel Rudi Pell brings his Ghost Town Tour 2026 to the stage.
German rock guitarist Axel Rudi Pell brings his Ghost Town Tour 2026 to Bochum.
Rock guitarist Axel Rudi Pell performs at ROXY. Ghost Town Tour 2026.
German rock guitarist Axel Rudi Pell brings his Ghost Town Tour 2026 to Mannheim.
Legendary guitarist Axel Rudi Pell comes to Gelnhausen with the Ghost Town tour supporting his new album. Heavy Glam Metal outfit NIGHT LASER opens the show.
German rock guitarist Axel Rudi Pell performs at LKA-Longhorn on his Ghost Town Tour 2026.
Rock concert with Axel Rudi Pell and Night Laser at Vienna's Szene Wien.
German rock guitarist Axel Rudi Pell brings his Ghost Town Tour 2026 to the stage.