As we wish, today, William Bruce Rose Jr. a.k.a. Axl Rose, a ‘Happy Birthday,’ the time has come to list the ‘BESTS’ of his band : Guns N’ Roses
Video Tracklist :
1 . November Rain
2 . Sweet Child O’ Mine
3 . Don’t Cry
4 . Paradise City
5 . Welcome To The Jungle
6 . Patience
7 . Estranged
8 . Since I Don’t Have You
9 . Live And Let Die
10 . Dead Horse
11 . Civil War
12 . It’s So Easy
13 . Garden Of Eden
14 . Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door
15 . Bad Apples
16 . Wild Horses & Patience
Audio : Sweet Child o’ Mine . Welcome to the Jungle . Paradise City . November Rain . Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door . Patience . Live and Let Die . Don’t Cry . Civil War . You Could Be Mine .
Guns N’ Roses: The Legacy of Rock and Rebellion
Guns N’ Roses emerged in the mid-1980s as one of the most iconic and controversial rock bands in history. With their raw energy, rebellious spirit, and blend of hard rock, punk, and blues influences, the band defined a generation and left an indelible mark on rock and roll.
Formation and Early Days
The band was formed in Los Angeles, the epicenter of the glam rock scene. Axl Rose, born William Bruce Rose Jr., and his childhood friend Izzy Stradlin first played together in Hollywood Rose. A merger with Tracii Guns’s L.A. Guns gave rise to the name Guns N’ Roses. The lineup was completed by Duff McKagan on bass, Slash on guitar, and Steven Adler on drums. Rehearsing in unconventional spaces, they gained popularity on the Sunset Strip, performing at venues like Whisky a Go Go and the Rainbow Bar and Grill.
The “Hell House” Era
During their early days, the band lived in squalor in a garage they called the “Hell House,” which became notorious for its unhygienic conditions and wild parties. Substance abuse, fights, and brushes with the law marked this period. Despite the chaos, the band’s raw talent and energy began to attract attention.
Record Deal and *Appetite for Destruction*
After securing a deal with Geffen Records, the band recorded their debut album, *Appetite for Destruction*. Released in 1987, the album became a global phenomenon, selling over 35 million copies worldwide. Singles like “Welcome to the Jungle,” “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” and “Paradise City” showcased their raw power and lyrical edge. Despite initial resistance from MTV due to violent content, the album catapulted them to international fame.
Rise to Fame and Controversy
As their popularity soared, so did their reputation for unpredictability. Their live shows were electrifying but often marred by violence and delays, often instigated by Axl Rose. The band faced accusations of racism and homophobia for lyrics in “One in a Million” and encountered backlash for controversial decisions, such as including a Charles Manson song on *The Spaghetti Incident?*. Their hedonistic lifestyle and substance abuse issues fueled internal conflicts and public scrutiny.
The *Use Your Illusion* Era
In 1991, Guns N’ Roses released *Use Your Illusion I* and *II* simultaneously, showcasing a broader musical range. Hits like “November Rain” and “Don’t Cry” became iconic, supported by elaborate and expensive music videos. The band embarked on an ambitious world tour, marked by erratic performances and internal tensions. The albums sold millions but highlighted the growing rifts within the band.
Internal Struggles and Lineup Changes
Substance abuse and personal conflicts led to the departure of key members. Steven Adler was fired in 1990 due to his drug addiction, replaced by Matt Sorum. Izzy Stradlin left the band, citing discomfort with their fame and behavior, and was replaced by Gilby Clarke. Axl and Slash communicated less and often clashed over creative differences.
Later Years and Reunion
The release of *The Spaghetti Incident?* in 1993 marked a low point in their commercial success. Internal strife led to years of inactivity, with Axl continuing to tour under the Guns N’ Roses name with a new lineup. Slash, Duff, and Matt formed Velvet Revolver. A partial reunion in 2016 brought Axl, Slash, and Duff back together for a world tour, reigniting interest in the band. In 2012, Guns N’ Roses was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, though Axl declined to attend.
Legacy
Guns N’ Roses is a band of contrasts—immense success paired with intense conflict. Their music captured the raw energy and rebellion of the late 1980s and early 1990s, influencing generations of rock musicians. Despite controversies and lineup changes, their impact on rock and roll remains undeniable, cementing their status as one of the greatest bands of all time.
allmusic :
Photo : Raph_PH