Scott Weiland plans to write memoir

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Rock singer Scott Weiland said on Sunday that he has a publishing deal to write an autobiography, but is feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of chronicling his eventful life to date.

"It's a weird thing," the Velvet Revolver frontman told reporters backstage at the American Music Awards. "You make a lot of records, write a lot of songs, but all of a sudden you go into a whole different vein, and it's a little bit scary to dive into."

Weiland, 40, said he would collaborate on the project with David Ritz, the "Sexual Healing" lyricist who has co-written autobiographies for the likes of Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles and most recently Don Rickles. He did not reveal the name of the publisher.

Weiland was accompanied by Velvet Revolver guitarist Slash, who just wrote a self-titled memoir with Anthony Bozza (Eminem, Tommy Lee).

Slash's advice to Weiland? "Just jump in, and once you get going you can't stop."

Slash, 42, said there has been "some interest" from Hollywood producers in adapting his book for the screen, "but I haven't really looked into it."

They were on hand to present the country album award to former "American Idol" champion Carrie Underwood, who was a little overwhelmed to be in their presence.

"I think she's pretty amazing, and she's got a great voice and she's also not bad to look at," Weiland said backstage.

"Cute and bubbly," added Slash.

Underwood returned the praise a little later, saying she has seen the band twice and knows the words to all its songs.

Velvet Revolver last week canceled four Japanese concerts scheduled for later this month because its visa applications were denied. Slash said the band is appealing, but in the meantime will begin a five-date Australian tour on December 4.

Reuters