The L.A. Guns was formed by ex Guns N’ Roses guitarist, Traci Guns in 1987. With the help from several different members of dismantled bands, L.A. Guns was formed.
The Band consisted of ex- Girl vocalist Phil Lewis, bassist
Kelly Nickles, former W.A.S.P. drummer Steve Riley, and guitarist Mick Cripps. The L.A. Guns released their debut album in 1988, making minimal buzz in the rock and roll world.
When the band’s second album was released called Cocked and Loaded, it was a huge sensation. One of the Gun’s break-out hits was the single “The Ballad of Jayne.” Off th
Continued...
e success of the single, the L.A. Gun’s second album was certified gold. After a brief break, the band released their third album Hollywood Vampires. The album again was minimally successful, peaking at number 42 on the billboard charts. The grunge movement slowed down the popularity of the “hair band” rock that the L.A. Guns were associated with.
L.A. Guns finally released their fourth album Vicious Circle in 1995. The album retained a core group of fans however it again was not as successful as the band had hoped. After the flop of Vicious Circle, the band made some lineup changes with Johnny Crypt taking over the bass. There was also a new lead vocalist,
Chris Van Dahl, who released American Hardcore with the band in 1996. The Band continued to put out albums throughout 2001, with minimal success. L.A. Guns are best known for their hits in the late 80’s.