By Josh 
Steven Adler’s journey with Guns N’ Roses is a cautionary tale of immense talent intertwined with personal struggles. As the band’s original drummer, Adler was a cornerstone of their early success, his dynamic drumming providing the backbone for some of the most iconic rock tracks of the 1980s.
The Early Days: Building a Legacy
Adler joined Guns N’ Roses in June 1985, teaming up with childhood friend Slash and bassist Duff McKagan to solidify the band’s lineup. Alongside Axl Rose and Izzy Stradlin, they created a sound that stood out in West Hollywood’s crowded hair metal scene. Adler’s fluid, swing-inspired drumming gave the band a distinctive edge, as heard on their debut album, Appetite for Destruction (1987).
The album’s massive success—driven by hits like Sweet Child O’ Mine and Welcome to the Jungle—catapulted the band into the limelight, but fame brought its challenges. For Adler, the newfound wealth and pressure amplified his struggles with substance abuse.
Trouble Behind the Scenes
By the late 1980s, Adler’s drug use began to affect his reliability and performance. During the band’s G N’ R Lies era, his absences and erratic behavior became harder to ignore. A notable incident occurred at the 1989 American Music Awards, where Don Henley of The Eagles had to step in for Adler. Officially, Adler was said to have the flu, but it was later revealed he was in rehab.
Tensions escalated further during the band’s October 1989 shows supporting The Rolling Stones. Axl Rose openly criticized certain band members for their heroin use, referencing it in their song Mr. Brownstone. Despite Adler’s promises to get clean, his addiction persisted.
Adler’s Firing
Adler’s inability to perform consistently in the studio ultimately led to his dismissal. While recording Civil War for the Use Your Illusion albums in 1990, Adler struggled to deliver a usable take despite multiple attempts. The delays and disruptions proved too costly for the band. On July 11, 1990, Steven Adler was officially fired from Guns N’ Roses.
The Aftermath
Adler’s departure marked a significant shift in the band’s dynamic. Guitarist Izzy Stradlin later reflected on the loss of Adler’s unique drumming style, noting that his sense of swing was integral to the band’s early sound. Adler was replaced by Matt Sorum, but Stradlin himself left the band in 1991, citing dissatisfaction with the changing dynamics.
Legacy
Though Adler’s time with Guns N’ Roses was cut short, his contributions to Appetite for Destruction remain monumental. His drumming helped define the band’s sound during their most celebrated era, leaving an indelible mark on rock history.