Since this iconic group’s formation in 1985, they have continuously and irreversibly shaped the face of rock music and rock culture. It all started in 1984 with a conversation between Izzy Stradlin, a member of the group Hollywood Rose at the time, and Tracii Guns, a member of L.A Guns. Guns N’ Roses’ iconic name is derived from these two former groups, and with the addition of Axl Rose as their new vocalist, the rest is history. They signed with Geffen Records in 1986 with this lineup: Axl Rose (vocals), Slash (lead guitar), Izzy Stradlin (rhythm guitar), Duff McKagan (bass), and Steven Adler (drums).
The current lineup that will be touring the nation this year is slightly different, consisting of original members Rose, Slash, and McKagan and new members Dizzy Reed (keyboard), Richard Fortus (guitar), Frank Ferrer (drums), and Melissa Reese (keyboard). GNR’s debut album, Appetite for Destruction (1987), was an instant classic and reached #1 on the Billboard 200 a year after its release. This famous LP skyrocketed like this largely due to some of the timeless hit singles on the album, including Welcome To The Jungle, Paradise City, and Sweet Child O’ Mine. Sweet Child O’ Mine remains their only single to reach the number 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. This album has sold over 30 million albums worldwide, with 18 million coming from the United States, making it the country’s best-selling debut album.
To date, GNR have released a total of 6 studio albums over a 21 year span from 1987 to 2008. These legends have sold a whopping 100 million records, making them the 41st-bestselling artist in history. They are also very well-known for their extravagant and rebellious nature, which unquestionably comes through in their live shows and performances, drawing comparisons to the Rolling Stones. Their most recent release came in 2008 with the LP Chinese Democracy, which was the most expensive rock album in history at $14 million in production costs. Their most recent tour came 8 years after in 2016 after Slash and McKagan rejoined the band. Titled Not In This Lifetime…Tour, it became the third-highest-grossing concert tour on record to date, behind Ed Sheeran and U2. These legendary and incredibly influential artists will be performing at Citizens Bank Park, presumably selling out this massive arena. Get your tickets while they last and don’t miss out on your chance to see GNR live before it’s too late. The show is at 6.
Wednesday, July 8 2020
Doors open: 5:00
$59+
Citizens Bank Park
1 Citizens Bank Way
Philadelphia, PA 19148
Tickets here
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