How Old Are the Members of Guns N’ Roses?
Guns N’ Roses is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time, formed in 1985 in Los Angeles, California. The band consists of three original members, Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan, who have undergone several line-up changes throughout their career. In this article, we’ll delve into the age of the current and former members of Guns N’ Roses, exploring the band’s evolution and contributions to the rock music genre.
Original Members and Their Ages
The three original members of Guns N’ Roses, who remain with the band to date, are:
- Axl Rose (born: February 6, 1962; current age: 61) – lead vocals, piano
- Slash (born: July 23, 1965; current age: 57) – lead guitar
- Duff McKagan (born: October 5, 1964; current age: 58)
How Old Are the Current and Former Members?
A list of current and former members of Guns N’ Roses, including their dates of birth, current ages, and years of contribution to the band:
Current Members
| Name | Date of Birth | Current Age |
|---|---|---|
| Axl Rose | February 6, 1962 | 61 |
| Slash | July 23, 1965 | 57 |
| Duff McKagan | October 5, 1964 | 58 |
| Richard Fortus | August 17, 1966 | 56 (joined the band in 2001) |
| Frank Ferrer | January 30, 1970 | 52 (joined the band in 2008) |
| Melissa Reese | August 12, 1984 | 38 (joined the band in 2016) |
Former Members
| Name | Date of Birth | Contribution Years (Guns N’ Roses) | Current Age (if applicable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Izzy Stradlin | April 8, 1962 | 1985-1991, 2000-2002, 2016 | 61 (born and left the band multiple times) |
| Steven Adler | January 22, 1965 | 1985-1990 | 58 (left the band in 1990 and has appeared as a guest musician at various Guns N’ Roses concerts) |
| Gilby Clarke | August 17, 1962 | 1991-1994 | 60 (played guitar during the "Use Your Illusion" tours) |
The Early Years
The original line-up of Guns N’ Roses was formed in 1985, with Axl Rose, Slash, Izzy Stradlin, Duff McKagan, Steven Adler, and drummer Vicky Hamilton (later replaced by Matt Sorum and eventually Josh Freese).
Line-Up Changes
Over the years, Guns N’ Roses has experienced several line-up changes due to creative differences, disagreements, and departures from the band:
- In 1997, guitarists Slash and Izzy Stradlin left the band, causing a split that lasted from 1997 to 2002.
- From 1997 to 2004, the band went on hiatus, during which time Axl Rose formed the tribute band Velvet Revolver (2002-2009).
- In 2016, Axl, Slash, and Duff reunited for the "Appetite for Democracy 3D" tour.
Legacy and Impact
Guns N’ Roses has had an immense influence on the music industry and has sold over 100 million records worldwide. With their unique blend of sleaze rock, punk energy, and melodic hooks, the band has inspired a generation of musicians and left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
In conclusion, the members of Guns N’ Roses, both current and former, have reached remarkable ages, showcasing the incredible legacy and influence of one of the most iconic and enduring rock bands of all time. As the band continues to perform and evolve, their timeless music, spirit, and energy captivate audiences around the globe.
