Velvet Revolver

Velvet Revolver was formed in 2002, bringing together former Guns N’ Roses members Slash (lead guitar), Duff McKagan (bass, backing vocals), and Matt Sorum (drums, backing vocals). They were joined by Dave Kushner (rhythm guitar) from Wasted Youth, and Scott Weiland (lead vocalist) from Stone Temple Pilots. The band’s formation followed a benefit concert for Randy Castillo in 2002, where the former Guns N’ Roses members recognized their musical chemistry. After auditioning several vocalists and considering various names, Weiland officially joined, and the band settled on Velvet Revolver. Their early work included “Set Me Free” and “Money” for film soundtracks, with “Set Me Free” gaining radio play without significant promotion.

The band’s debut album, “Contraband,” released on June 8, 2004, was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 and selling over 250,000 copies in its first week. The album featured hit singles like “Slither” and “Fall to Pieces,” both of which topped the Mainstream Rock Chart. “Slither” also earned them a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2005. They embarked on an extensive 19-month tour, performing in the US, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, including appearances at Live 8 and Ozzfest.

Their second album, “Libertad,” released on July 3, 2007, peaked at number five on the Billboard 200. The album included singles such as “She Builds Quick Machines” and “The Last Fight.” However, tensions within the band, particularly concerning Weiland’s substance abuse issues, led to his departure in April 2008. After Weiland’s exit, Velvet Revolver went on an indefinite hiatus. They reunited for a one-off benefit concert with Weiland in 2012, which proved to be their last performance together before Weiland’s death in 2015. Slash and McKagan subsequently rejoined Guns N’ Roses in 2016.