Guns N' Roses was formed in Los Angeles in 1985 by vocalist Axl Rose, guitarist Slash, and drummer Steven Adler. The band's early sound was heavily influenced by blues and hard rock, which would later become a defining characteristic of their music. Their debut album, "Appetite for Destruction," was released on July 21, 1987, and was a massive commercial success. The album included hits like "Welcome to the Jungle," "Paradise City," and "Sweet Child O' Mine," which showcased the band's raw energy and Axl Rose's distinctive vocals.