By Josh 
The epic video for Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain” remains one of the most iconic rock visuals, amassing over 2.2 billion views on YouTube and solidifying its place in music history. While fans continue to marvel at its cinematic grandeur, the making of the video held unexpected challenges and even moments of fear for the band’s legendary guitarist, Slash.
The Iconic Chapel Solo
One of the most unforgettable sequences in the video features Slash performing a soaring guitar solo outside a white wedding chapel in the desert near New Mexico’s Highway 41. The shot, directed by Andy Morahan, utilized a helicopter to capture dramatic aerial angles. However, Slash later admitted he wasn’t aware of the helicopter’s involvement beforehand and found the experience harrowing.
“I thought, ‘This’ll be my last day on Earth,’” Slash revealed, recounting how he had to accept the potential danger as the helicopter whipped up sand and wind around him. Despite the fear, the result was a visually stunning moment that elevated the video to legendary status.
The Story Behind the Video
The video, based on a story by Gn’R collaborator Del James, portrays the turmoil of a grieving rock star (played by Axl Rose) grappling with the loss of his partner (portrayed by Stephanie Seymour). However, Slash confessed that he wasn’t fully in tune with the narrative’s deeper meaning, saying, “To tell you the truth, I have no idea.”
Despite its dramatic flair, Slash expressed a preference for simpler live-performance videos, naming Paradise City as his favorite.
A Commercial and Cultural Phenomenon
Released as the third single from Use Your Illusion I in 1992, “November Rain” peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its groundbreaking video, though expensive and “bonkers” by Morahan’s admission, played a significant role in the song’s success. The video’s release propelled album sales from 12-14 million to over 25 million, cementing its place in rock lore.
Endorsements and Legacy
Even former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly declared “November Rain” as “the greatest music video of all time,” according to Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ memoir, adding it to his rally playlist and making staff watch it to prove his point.
While opinions may vary on the video’s artistic merits, its impact is undeniable, both as a commercial powerhouse and as a hallmark of 1990s rock excess.