Discover the explosive impact of Don Henley’s collaboration with Guns N’ Roses!
As 1988 neared its end, Guns N’ Roses was a lively place to be, with their GNR Lies album selling well despite controversy. Axl Rose found himself defending accusations of homophobia and racism, while behind the scenes, sobriety was becoming a rarity.
In December, guitarist Izzy Stradlin made headlines after passing out on a flight to Tokyo due to heroin consumption. The band manager recalled the incident with disbelief, as they had to wheel him through immigration in a cart upon arrival.
The band’s drummer, Steve Adler, was also struggling with a heroin addiction, ultimately leading him to enter rehab upon the band’s return to the US.
The following month, Guns N’ Roses were set to perform at the American Music Awards, but faced a dilemma as they were lacking a drummer. Don Henley of the Eagles, who was signed to the same label as GN’R, stepped in to join them for the performance.
Henley’s collaboration with the band was unexpected but successful, as he played the drums for their song “Patience” during the awards show. Despite the last-minute nature of the performance, Henley found it relatively easy due to the nature of the song.
Meanwhile, for Steve Adler, the AMA performance came as a shock as he was unaware that he had been replaced for the show. He described feeling hurt and betrayed by the situation.
Guns N’ Roses went on a hiatus until October, when they played a show in Los Angeles and opened for the Rolling Stones. During these shows, Axl Rose made a bold statement that he would quit the band if certain members didn’t address their substance abuse issues.
Steve Adler’s time with the band came to an end in April 1990 when he played his final show at the Farm Aid IV festival in Indianapolis. Just three months later, he was fired from the band, marking the end of an era for Guns N’ Roses.
