The Guns (band)

The Guns were a short-lived Los Angeles hard rock band formed in 1985. The band is notable primarily for being a precursor to Guns N' Roses, featuring several members who would later achieve superstardom in that band.

History:

The Guns was formed by guitarists Axl Rose (then using the name W. Axl Rose) and Tracii Guns, the latter having previously been involved with the band L.A. Guns. The original lineup also included drummer Rob Gardner, bassist Ole Beich, and guitarist Izzy Stradlin. The band played a handful of shows in the Los Angeles area, performing a mix of original songs and covers.

Dissolution and Legacy:

The Guns' lifespan was brief. Ole Beich was replaced by Duff McKagan, and shortly thereafter, Tracii Guns, Rob Gardner, and Axl Rose were essentially ousted or left. Axl Rose and Izzy Stradlin subsequently merged The Guns with members of the band Hollywood Rose (Duff McKagan, Slash, and Steven Adler) to form the initial, foundational lineup of Guns N' Roses. Tracii Guns would revive L.A. Guns, achieving success in his own right. The Guns, therefore, serves as a crucial stepping stone in the evolution of one of the most iconic rock bands of all time.