How Old is Slash of Guns N’ Roses?
Guns N’ Roses is one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, known for their raw energy, catchy hooks, and unforgettable guitar riffs. At the heart of the band’s sound is none other than Slash, the legendary guitarist and songwriter who has been making music with Guns N’ Roses for over three decades. So, how old is Slash of Guns N’ Roses?
Early Life and Career
Saul Hudson, better known as Slash, was born on July 23, 1965, in Hampstead, London, England. His mother, Ola Hudson, was a costume designer for TV shows, and his father, Anthony Hudson, was a horologist. Slash’s early life was marked by frequent moves between England and California, where he developed a passion for music.
At the age of 12, Slash began playing the guitar, inspired by legendary rockers like Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page. He quickly became an accomplished player, and in the early 1980s, he formed his first band, Tidus Sloan, with childhood friends.
Guns N’ Roses
In 1985, Slash met Axl Rose, Izzy Stradlin, Duff McKagan, and Steven Adler in Los Angeles. The group, which would eventually become Guns N’ Roses, was formed, and Slash’s unique guitar style became a defining characteristic of the band’s sound.
With Slash on board, Guns N’ Roses released their debut album, Appetite for Destruction, in 1987. The album was a massive success, selling over 30 million copies worldwide and cementing the band’s status as one of the most popular rock acts of the late 1980s.
Breakthrough and Success
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Guns N’ Roses continued to release hit albums, including G N’ R Lies, Use Your Illusion I, and Use Your Illusion II. During this period, Slash and the band won numerous awards, including a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance.
Hiatus and Solo Career
In 1996, Slash left Guns N’ Roses due to creative differences and personal issues. He went on to form the band Slash’s Snakepit, releasing their debut album, It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere, in 1995.
In 2002, Slash reunited with Guns N’ Roses and began working on new music. However, the band’s reunion was short-lived, and Slash left the group again in 2006.
Return to Guns N’ Roses
In 2016, Slash reunited with Guns N’ Roses once more, and the band embarked on the Not in This Lifetime… Tour. The tour was a massive success, grossing over $500 million and becoming the highest-grossing rock tour of all time.
Awards and Legacy
Throughout his career, Slash has won numerous awards, including a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance, a MTV Video Music Award, and a People’s Choice Award. He has also been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Guns N’ Roses.
Fun Facts
- Slash’s stage name was inspired by the 1971 film "Kung Fu," in which a character named Master Sailor is nicknamed "Slash."
- Slash has been inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
- Slash has collaborated with numerous artists, including Michael Jackson, Fergie, and Dave Grohl.
- Slash has been involved in several charity initiatives, including the "Slash’s Snakepit" benefit concert for the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
Table: Slash’s Discography
Album | Release Date | Label |
---|---|---|
Appetite for Destruction | 1987 | Geffen Records |
G N’ R Lies | 1988 | Geffen Records |
Use Your Illusion I | 1991 | Geffen Records |
Use Your Illusion II | 1991 | Geffen Records |
It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere | 1995 | Koch Records |
Slash | 2010 | EMI |
World on Fire | 2014 | Dik Hayd Records |
Living the Dream | 2018 | Columbia Records |
Conclusion
Slash, the iconic guitarist and songwriter of Guns N’ Roses, has had a long and illustrious career spanning over three decades. From his early days as a child prodigy to his current status as a rock legend, Slash has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With his unique guitar style and unforgettable stage presence, Slash continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike. And at the age of 57, Slash remains an integral part of Guns N’ Roses, still touring and creating music with his bandmates.