In 2002, Slash wanted to recapture the magic of Guns N’ Roses. It turned into the “toughest five years” of his life

After leaving Guns N’ Roses in 1996, Slash reunited with former bandmates Duff McKagan and Matt Sorum in 2002 and formed Velvet Revolver, hoping to recapture some of their old band’s chemistry with Scott Weiland as singer. The group produced successful arena rock, but Slash later described the experience as deeply unhappy, citing Weiland-related difficulties and poor management.

Velvet Revolver released two albums, including their 2004 debut, *Contraband*, with songs such as ‘Slither’ and ‘Fall to Pieces’. In 2009, after Weiland had left, Slash called the band’s five-year run the toughest period of his life and said he had never felt comfortable in it; he found some relief on their final UK tour, knowing the ordeal was ending. Weiland was never replaced, and Slash moved on.