Axl Rose, born William Bruce Rose Jr., is an American musician and songwriter with an estimated net worth of $200 million. As the lead vocalist of Guns N’ Roses, he became famous worldwide, contributing significantly to the band’s success. Known for his wide-ranging voice and electrifying stage presence, Rose became an iconic figure in rock music. His unique style has left a lasting mark on the genre.
Rose’s musical career took off with Guns N’ Roses’ debut album, Appetite for Destruction, released in 1987. The album went on to sell more than 30 million copies globally, featuring unforgettable tracks like “Sweet Child o’ Mine” and “Welcome to the Jungle.” Despite controversies, including legal issues and an often volatile public persona, Rose’s commitment to Guns N’ Roses solidified its position as one of rock’s most influential bands. Rose’s career was further solidified when he became the lead vocalist for AC/DC in 2016, adding to his legendary status. Guns N’ Roses’ induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012 was another milestone in his career, marking his enduring impact on the industry.
Early Life and Formative Years
Axl Rose was born on February 6, 1962, in Lafayette, Indiana, to Sharon and William Rose Sr. His early years were marked by hardship, as his parents separated when he was just two. After his father abducted and allegedly abused him, Rose’s mother remarried, and he was legally renamed William Bruce Bailey. Rose grew up in a religious household, attending church frequently and even teaching Sunday school. Despite these challenges, music became a way for him to express himself.
From a young age, Rose’s passion for music was clear. He joined the church choir at age five and later studied piano while in high school. Rose also started a band with friends, including future Guns N’ Roses guitarist Izzy Stradlin. It was during these years that Rose learned of his biological father’s death and began to refer to himself as W. Rose. His teenage years were turbulent, with more than 20 arrests for various offenses. In 1982, fearing more legal trouble, Rose moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music.
The Formation of Guns N’ Roses
Once in Los Angeles, Rose fully immersed himself in the local music scene, joining bands like Rapidfire, Hollywood Rose, and L.A. Guns. He worked odd jobs to support himself, including a stint as a paid cigarette smoker for a UCLA study. In March 1985, Rose formed Guns N’ Roses, a band that would soon attract major record label attention. Their first EP came out in December 1985, and by 1986, the band was ready to sign with Geffen Records.
The name Axl Rose was adopted during this period when friends encouraged him to go by a more marketable moniker. Rose legally changed his name to W. Axl Rose before signing with the label, setting the stage for his future success. By 1987, Guns N’ Roses had skyrocketed to fame with Appetite for Destruction, a landmark album that would establish them as one of the most successful rock bands of the late 20th century.
Success with Guns N’ Roses
Guns N’ Roses was a dominant force in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with their debut album, Appetite for Destruction, still holding the title of the best-selling debut album in U.S. history. The follow-up albums Use Your Illusion I and Use Your Illusion II, both released in 1991, continued the band’s success, selling a combined 35 million copies worldwide. Guns N’ Roses has sold over 100 million records globally, making them one of the highest-selling bands of all time.
Throughout this period, Rose remained the only consistent member of the band, despite numerous lineup changes and lengthy hiatuses. His dedication to the band allowed Guns N’ Roses to continue influencing the rock music scene. Rose’s legacy was further cemented when the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, though Rose chose not to attend the ceremony. In 2016, Rose further enhanced his reputation by replacing Brian Johnson as the lead singer for AC/DC on their tour.
Financial Success and Touring
From 2017 to 2018, Rose earned a staggering $20 million, primarily from touring with Guns N’ Roses. The band’s Not In This Lifetime Tour generated more than $430 million globally, solidifying Rose’s financial success. Touring has been the key revenue source for Rose in recent years, as Guns N’ Roses continues to be a major draw for fans worldwide.
Personal Life and Relationships
Rose’s personal life has been marked by tumultuous relationships. Despite a public image of rebellion, he was not a heavy drug user. In 1986, Rose was hospitalized after an overdose, which inspired the song “Coma.” Rose also became a proponent of alternative medicine, including past life regression therapy, during the 1990s.
Rose’s high-profile relationships have often captured public attention. In 1986, he began dating Erin Everly, daughter of singer Don Everly. Rose wrote the iconic song “Sweet Child of Mine” about Everly, and she even appeared in the song’s music video. The couple married in 1990, but their union was short-lived, and they annulled their marriage in 1991 after an altercation. Everly later sued Rose for physical and emotional abuse, though the case was settled out of court.
Following his split from Everly, Rose dated supermodel Stephanie Seymour. She appeared in Guns N’ Roses’ music videos for “Don’t Cry” and “November Rain.” They became engaged in 1993, but their relationship ended shortly afterward. Rumors also circulated about a potential romance between Rose and singer Lana Del Rey.
Real Estate and Philanthropy
Axl Rose owns a house in Malibu, California, which he purchased in 1992 for $3.6 million. In 2008, he became a hero to his neighbors when a fire broke out in the area. Rose saved several homes by pushing open a neighbor’s gate and helping firefighters gain access to the area, demonstrating a surprising act of kindness and bravery.
Axl Rose’s life and career have been marked by highs and lows, but his net worth and legacy in rock music remain undeniable. As the driving force behind Guns N’ Roses, Rose’s influence continues to resonate with fans, ensuring his place among rock’s greatest legends.
