Steven Adler

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Steven Adler still get royalties?

Yes, Steven Adler still receives royalties for his work as the original drummer of Guns N' Roses. As a founding member, Adler contributed to the band's iconic debut album, "Appetite for Destruction," as well as the "G N' R Lies" EP. These releases continue to sell millions of copies worldwide, generating substantial income through mechanical royalties, performance royalties, and licensing deals. Despite his departure from the band in 1990, Adler negotiated a settlement that ensured he would continue to earn a share of royalties from the songs he played on and co-wrote. This ongoing revenue stream is common in the music industry, especially for artists who played a significant role in landmark recordings. Therefore, even decades after his exit, Steven Adler benefits financially from the enormous and enduring popularity of Guns N' Roses' classic catalog, particularly hits such as "Sweet Child o' Mine," "Paradise City," and "Welcome to the Jungle."

Why did Steven Adler get kicked out of Guns N' Roses?

Steven Adler was kicked out of Guns N' Roses primarily due to his ongoing struggles with substance abuse, which severely impacted his ability to perform and record with the band. During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Adler's heroin and cocaine addiction became increasingly problematic, affecting both his reliability and his drumming skills. The band attempted to help him by arranging for rehabilitation, but his relapses and erratic behavior continued. The breaking point came during the recording sessions for the "Use Your Illusion" albums, where Adler's inability to play consistently led to repeated delays and mounting frustration among the other members. Ultimately, the band decided that they could no longer depend on him, resulting in his official dismissal in 1990. Adler's departure was a significant moment in Guns N' Roses' history, as he was not only a founding member but also contributed to the band's unique sound on their breakthrough debut album.

What songs did Steven Adler write?

Steven Adler co-wrote several songs with Guns N' Roses, particularly during the band's early years. As the drummer, Adler's contributions were mainly in the form of rhythm arrangements and creative input during the songwriting process. Notably, he is credited as a co-writer on five tracks from "Appetite for Destruction": "Welcome to the Jungle," "It's So Easy," "Nightrain," "Out ta Get Me," and "Rocket Queen." Adler's energetic drumming and groove played a crucial role in shaping the sound of these classic songs. His work on "Paradise City" is also highly regarded, though primary songwriting credits go to other members. Additionally, Adler contributed to the "G N' R Lies" EP, particularly on tracks like "Patience." While he did not write lyrics, his drum patterns and musical input were integral to the creation and enduring appeal of these Guns N' Roses hits, securing his legacy as a key figure in the band's early success.

Why did Steven Adler have a stroke?

Steven Adler suffered a stroke in 1996, which was directly related to his ongoing struggles with drug addiction. Years of heavy heroin and cocaine abuse took a toll on his health, and a particularly severe overdose led to a temporary coma and subsequent stroke. The stroke caused partial paralysis, affecting Adler's speech and motor skills, especially on his right side. This tragic event highlighted the severe consequences of substance abuse and marked a turning point in Adler's life and career. Despite the challenges, Adler demonstrated resilience by working through rehabilitation and eventually returning to music, although his drumming style and physical abilities were permanently affected. His stroke serves as a cautionary tale within the rock music community about the dangers of addiction, but also stands as a testament to his determination to overcome adversity and continue pursuing his passion for music.

Why was Steven Adler kicked out of GnR?

Steven Adler was kicked out of Guns N' Roses due to his persistent substance abuse issues, which ultimately rendered him unreliable as a band member. Adler's heroin and cocaine addiction escalated during the band's rise to fame, resulting in missed rehearsals, inconsistent performances, and difficulties during studio recordings. The situation became untenable during the "Use Your Illusion" sessions, where his inability to play drum parts to the band's satisfaction led to significant delays. Despite interventions and offers of rehabilitation from his bandmates, Adler was unable to overcome his addiction at that time. The rest of Guns N' Roses, facing mounting pressure to progress with their highly anticipated albums, made the difficult decision to part ways with him in 1990. Adler's departure marked the end of an era for the band's original lineup, underscoring the profound impact that addiction can have on both personal and professional relationships in the music industry.