Questions
When and where did Guns N’ Roses form?
The band formed in March 1985 in Los Angeles, California.
Where did the name Guns N’ Roses come from?
It combined the names of the members’ previous bands, L.A. Guns and Hollywood Rose. It was reportedly first intended as a record label name.
Who were the founding members?
The band was founded by Axl Rose, Izzy Stradlin, Tracii Guns, Rob Gardner, and Ole Beich.
Who is in the classic lineup?
The quintessential five-piece is Axl Rose (vocals), Slash (lead guitar), Izzy Stradlin (rhythm guitar), Duff McKagan (bass), and Steven Adler (drums).
What was their debut album?
Appetite for Destruction, released on July 21, 1987. It has since sold more than 30 million copies worldwide and is the best-selling debut album in U.S. history.
Was Sweet Child o’ Mine their only number one hit?
Yes. Sweet Child o’ Mine reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and was the band’s only chart-topper.
How did Welcome to the Jungle get on MTV?
Geffen Records founder David Geffen reportedly personally urged MTV to air the Welcome to the Jungle video during its late-night rotation.
How many records has the band sold?
Guns N’ Roses has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, with Use Your Illusion I and II (1991) accounting for around 35 million combined.
What happened on the 1985 Hell Tour?
On the way to Seattle both of the band’s vans reportedly broke down, and the members hitchhiked the rest of the way carrying only their guitars.
Why were they called the most dangerous band in the world?
Volatile performances and riots, including incidents at concerts, reportedly contributed to Guns N’ Roses being labeled the most dangerous band in the world.
Did another famous musician ever fill in on drums?
Yes. Don Henley of the Eagles played drums for the band at the 1989 American Music Awards while Steven Adler was in rehab.
What was the hidden track controversy on The Spaghetti Incident?
The 1993 covers album The Spaghetti Incident? included a hidden track, a cover of Look at Your Game, Girl, originally by cult leader Charles Manson, which sparked major controversy.
Why was Chinese Democracy such a big deal?
Released in 2008, it cost an estimated $14 million, making it reportedly the most expensive rock album ever produced.
Did the classic lineup ever reunite?
Yes. Slash and Duff McKagan rejoined for the Not in This Lifetime... Tour beginning in 2016, which became one of the highest-grossing concert tours ever.
Have they been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
Yes, Guns N’ Roses was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012.
