Behind The Song: Guns N' Roses – "November Rain" and the Chicago Chapter

Podcast Information:

• Title: Behind The Song
• Host/Author: The Drive | Hubbard Radio
• Episode: Janda and Christian talk "November Rain," GNR's lost summer in Chicago, and more!
• Release Date: November 25, 2024
• Description: Dive deep into the lyrics of classic rock songs and the storytellers behind them. Host Janda Lane explores the behind-the-scenes moments of iconic rock anthems.

Introduction to the Episode's Focus

In this enlightening episode of "Behind The Song," host Janda Lane teams up with Christian Lane, the podcast's music producer, to delve into the intricacies of Guns N' Roses' legendary track "November Rain." They explore the song's creation, the band's tumultuous summer in Chicago, and the dynamics that shaped this iconic hard rock ensemble.

Deep Dive into "November Rain"

Challenging the Norms of Song Length and Catchiness

Janda initiates the discussion by addressing the unconventional length of "November Rain," a nine-minute epic in an era dominated by shorter, pop-oriented tracks.

Janda [01:05]: "It's hard to call a nine-minute song catchy because you usually think of a catchy song being like a little two, three-minute pop song. But it speaks to the quality of the song itself... You just listen to the song and it's catchy."

Despite its length, "November Rain" resonated with audiences, showcasing that depth and complexity can coexist with mass appeal.

Influences: Elton John and Brian May

Christian highlights Axl Rose's admiration for Elton John, shedding light on the unexpected influences that shaped Guns N' Roses' sound.

Christian [01:20]: "Axl Rose is a huge Elton John fan. It sort of lends this song and the fact that it was inspired by, you know, 'Love Lies Bleeding,' 'Funeral for a Friend,' mid-70s Elton John."

Janda further elaborates on how these influences elevated the band's musicality beyond typical heavy metal conventions.

Janda [02:27]: "When you find out that Axl loves Elton John, you have to consider him a little bit differently."

The conversation also touches upon Slash's guitar solos, drawing comparisons to Brian May of Queen, which added a layer of sophistication to the track.

Janda [02:42]: "There's a part where Slash does such a Brian May and it's not a ripoff, but it's sort of in his style, in his feel."

Guitar Solos and Musicality

Christian plays a recreation of one of Slash's solos, emphasizing its Brian May-esque quality, which underscores the band's ability to blend diverse influences seamlessly.

Christian [03:06]: "So Slash is bringing his own influences into this thing and he's bringing his own tastes."

Janda praises Slash's versatility, highlighting his ability to infuse beauty and delicacy amidst the band's powerhouse riffs.

Janda [04:17]: "That's Slash. He's just that guy right there. All he cares about is, I don't know, probably just playing guitar, having fun."

Guns N' Roses' Chicago Chapter

Manager's Strategy to Relocate

Christian narrates the band's strategic relocation to Chicago orchestrated by their manager to curb their notorious hard rock lifestyle and minimize distractions.

Christian [04:17]: "They were the wild rock and roll boys... the manager had the bright idea to take these newly rich rock boys and transplant them from their haunts in Los Angeles to the city of Chicago."

Wrigleyville’s Atmosphere in the Late '80s and Early '90s

Janda paints a vivid picture of Wrigleyville during this period—a stark contrast to its modern, family-friendly image.

Janda [05:35]: "It was dive bars, sports bars... All the waitresses wore Doc Martens and had long black hair and tattoos."

The area was a hub for partygoers, laden with bars and clubs that fostered a seedy yet vibrant nightlife, setting the stage for the band's chaotic stay.

Anecdotes from Janda’s Experience at Wrigley Field

Sharing personal experiences, Janda recounts his time working at Wrigley Field, witnessing the eclectic mix of patrons and the pervasive presence of infamous figures like Jeffrey Dahmer.

Janda [07:24]: "And you have Cubs fans during the season... there were signs up everywhere from missing people that turned out to be victims of Jeffrey Dahmer."

"Spaghetti Incident": Origin and Story

Christian introduces the humorous yet telling tale behind the album "The Spaghetti Incident?"—a playful nod to the band's penchant for chaos, symbolized by tossing pasta onto Chicago's Clark Street.

Christian [10:12]: "Piles of pasta ended up on the sidewalk on Clark Street... thus the title of the spaghetti incident."

Janda speculates on the likely source of the pasta, attributing it to a popular local eatery, which adds authenticity to the story.

Janda [10:36]: "It's just a hunch that they were ordering from Leonis... getting piles of pasta from Leona's."

Band Dynamics and Partying in Chicago

The narrative underscores the band's indulgent behavior during their Chicago stay, with all members except Axl immersed in the local party scene.

Christian [11:39]: "Axl didn't even show up until the last couple days. He wasn't interested in any of this stuff."

Despite the mayhem, the band reportedly enjoyed their time, intertwining Chicago's vibrant scene with their own legendary rock lifestyle.

Band Dynamics and Changes

Drummer Transition: From Steven Adler to Matt Sorum

A pivotal moment in the band's history is discussed—the transition from original drummer Steven Adler to Matt Sorum amid the band's chaotic Chicago period.

Janda [15:54]: "Steven Adler... simply because, as you said, it's such a different band without him."

Christian elaborates on how Adler's departure influenced the recording of the "Use Your Illusion" albums, highlighting the challenges of maintaining the band's signature sound with a new drummer.

Christian [17:37]: "They were probably in a real state of, like, what do we... first of all, you got to find a drummer that works now."

The shift not only altered the band's musical landscape but also introduced a new dynamic that affected their creative process and output.

Del James: The Creative Ally

Role as Road Manager and Writer

The discussion shifts to Del James, Guns N' Roses' long-time road manager and creative collaborator. Christian emphasizes James' multifaceted contributions, from writing to music video production.

Christian [18:00]: "Del James is now their road manager for many, many years... he's a friend and ally to Axl and to Guns N' Roses."

Influence on Music Videos

Del James' short story, "Without You," serves as the foundation for a trilogy of music videos—“Use Your Illusion I & II,” “Don't Cry,” and “November Rain”—demonstrating his pivotal role in the band's visual storytelling.

Christian [19:44]: "All came from the short story... Andy Moran picked it up and brought it to visual life."

Janda reflects on the serendipitous nature of creative collaborations, highlighting how meaningful relationships can have lasting impacts.

Janda [21:03]: "When you spark with somebody, those are going to be the people that make a meaningful difference."

Conclusion and Takeaways

The episode culminates with a reflection on the enduring legacy of Guns N' Roses, underscored by their ability to blend diverse influences, navigate internal changes, and foster creative partnerships.

Christian [21:14]: "Love stories don't work out, but, you know, hopefully your friendships do. So hats off to Del James and Axl and Guns N' Roses..."

Janda echoes this sentiment, celebrating the band's resilience and the authentic personalities that continue to captivate fans worldwide.

Janda [21:53]: "This is what we do all day, so it's always great fun for me."

Final Thoughts:

This episode of "Behind The Song" offers an intimate glimpse into the making of "November Rain," the band's adventurous stint in Chicago, and the influential figures like Del James who have shaped Guns N' Roses' storied journey. Through candid conversations and personal anecdotes, Janda and Christian illuminate the complexities and triumphs of one of hard rock's most iconic bands.

Notable Quotes:

• Janda [01:20]: "You have to consider him a little bit differently as much as it's compared to 'Funeral for a Friend.'"
• Christian [03:06]: "Sharon Tate dined at El Coyote... the last place she dined in Los Angeles."
• Janda [13:53]: "I felt the shadow of the top hat... and it's Slash."

For Listeners:

If you're fascinated by the stories behind classic rock anthems and the legends who create them, be sure to subscribe to "Behind The Song" on The Drive | Hubbard Radio. Dive deeper into the music that defines generations and uncover the tales that make these songs timeless.