Grammys Correcting the Record with Guns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses’ iconic debut album, ‘Appetite for Destruction,’ is finally receiving the recognition it deserves by being inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame after 37 years. This monumental achievement rights a past wrong, as the album was overlooked by the Grammys in 1987.

Released on July 21, 1987, ‘Appetite for Destruction’ initially struggled to gain traction, with sales stagnating at 250,000 and MTV refusing to air the video for “Welcome to the Jungle.” However, after a last-minute plea to MTV, the video was finally given a chance and the album began its ascent to legendary status.

By the end of the Grammy eligibility period in 1987, the album had not even cracked the Billboard 200 Album Chart’s Top 70, lacking the airplay and support necessary for recognition. Surprisingly, hit singles like “Welcome to the Jungle,” “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” and “Paradise City” went without nominations, while the band’s debut recognition only came with a Best Hard Rock Performance nomination for their follow-up album, ‘GN’R Lies.’

The 2024 Grammy Hall of Fame induction class will feature ten recordings, including ‘Appetite for Destruction,’ all of which are first-time entries. The induction process was revisited, resulting in a smaller class size for this year’s honorees.

In addition to Guns N’ Roses, other inductees include William Bell’s “You Don’t Miss Your Water” (1961), Buena Vista Social Club’s self-titled album (1997), De La Soul’s ‘3 Feet High and Rising’ (1989), and The Doobie Brothers’ “What a Fool Believes” (1979). Lauryn Hill’s ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’ (1998), Wanda Jackson’s “Let’s Have a Party” (1960), Kid Ory’s Creole Orchestra’s “Ory’s Creole Trombone” (1922), Charley Pride’s “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” (1971), and Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love” (1977) round out the impressive lineup.

The Grammy Hall of Fame was established in 1973 to honor recordings of significant qualitative or historical importance that are at least 25 years old. This year’s class will be celebrated with a gala and concert on May 21 at the NOVO Theater in Los Angeles, a departure from previous years that adds a new level of excitement to the festivities.

‘Appetite for Destruction’ finally takes its rightful place alongside other timeless classics in the Grammy Hall of Fame, rewarding Guns N’ Roses’ enduring impact on music history and solidifying their place in the annals of rock ‘n’ roll.