Axl Rose has turned down an invitation to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with his former Guns N' Roses band members.

The lead singer of the band released an open letter saying he has no plans to attend this weekend's ceremony.

He explained why he refused the honour from the prestigious Cleveland-based annual event.

"I strongly request that I not be inducted in absentia and please know that no one is authorised nor may anyone be permitted to accept any induction for me or speak on my behalf," he said according to Rolling Stone.

"I certainly don't intend to disappoint anyone, especially the fans, with this decision. Since the announcement of the nomination we've actively sought out a solution to what, with all things considered, appears to be a no win, at least for me, 'damned if I do, damned if I don't' scenario all the way around."

However he does not discourage other band mates from attending the event. Slash, Matt Sorum, Dizzy Reed, Duff McKagan and Steven Adler have all indicated that they plan on being there.

"For the record, I would not begrudge anyone from Guns their accomplishments or recognition for such," he said. "Neither I or anyone in my camp has made any requests or demands of the Hall Of Fame. It's their show not mine.

"That said, I won't be attending The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Induction 2012 Ceremony and I respectfully decline my induction as a member of Guns N' Roses to the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame."

He also slammed former band mate Steven Adler for spreading "reunion lies". He insists the only two original members he would perform with again are Izzy and Duff.

"Time to move on," Axl continued about the group famous for hits like Welcome to the Jungle and Paradise City.

"People get divorced. Life doesn't owe you your own personal happy ending, especially at another's or in this case, several others' expense."