Overview Saul Hudson, known professionally as Slash, is a British-American musician and songwriter. He is best known as the lead guitarist of the rock band Guns N’ Roses, with whom he achieved worldwide success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Slash is renowned for his distinctive guitar playing style and iconic top hat.
Early Life Slash was born on July 23, 1965, in Hampstead, London, England. His mother, Ola Hudson, was an African-American costume designer, and his father, Anthony Hudson, was a white English artist. The family moved to Los Angeles, California, when Slash was a child. He developed an interest in music at a young age and began playing the guitar at the age of 15.
Career Slash’s career took off when he joined Guns N’ Roses in 1985. The band’s debut album, “Appetite for Destruction” (1987), became a massive commercial success, featuring hits like “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” “Welcome to the Jungle,” and “Paradise City.” Slash’s guitar solos and riffs became iconic, and he quickly gained recognition as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation.
After leaving Guns N’ Roses in 1996, Slash formed the supergroup Velvet Revolver with former Guns N’ Roses members Duff McKagan and Matt Sorum, along with Stone Temple Pilots vocalist Scott Weiland. The band released two successful albums, “Contraband” (2004) and “Libertad” (2007).
In addition to his work with Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver, Slash has released several solo albums and collaborated with numerous artists across various genres. His solo work includes albums like “Slash” (2010), “Apocalyptic Love” (2012), and “Living the Dream” (2018).
Personal Life Slash has been married twice and has two sons. He is known for his distinctive look, which includes his signature top hat, long curly hair, and sunglasses. Despite his rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, Slash has been open about his struggles with addiction and his journey to sobriety.
Legacy Slash’s contributions to rock music have earned him numerous accolades and recognition. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Guns N’ Roses in 2012. His guitar playing style, characterized by its bluesy feel and technical proficiency, continues to influence aspiring guitarists worldwide.
Discography
- Solo Albums
- “Slash” (2010)
- “Apocalyptic Love” (2012)
- “World on Fire” (2014)
- “Living the Dream” (2018)
- “4” (2022)
- With Guns N’ Roses
- “Appetite for Destruction” (1987)
- “G N’ R Lies” (1988)
- “Use Your Illusion I” (1991)
- “Use Your Illusion II” (1991)
- “The Spaghetti Incident?” (1993)
- With Velvet Revolver
- “Contraband” (2004)
- “Libertad” (2007)
