Duff McKagan is an American musician, singer-songwriter, and bassist most famously known for his time as a member of the iconic rock band Guns N' Roses. McKagan was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. He began playing music at an early age, starting with the drums before transitioning to bass and developing a passion for the instrument.
At the age of 15, McKagan joined his first band, the Vains. He then went on to join the Fastbacks and 10 Minute Warning. In 1985, McKagan joined Guns N' Roses, and the band quickly rose to fame with their 1987 debut album Appetite for Destruction. McKagan's unique bass-playing style helped to shape the sound of the band. He played on the band's albums G N' R Lies, Use Your Illusion I and II, and The Spaghetti Incident.
In 1994, McKagan left Guns N' Roses and embarked on a solo career. He released his debut solo album Believe in Me in 1993 and followed it up with Beautiful Disease in 2000. He then formed the band Loaded and released their debut album Dark Days in 2001. Following the release of their second album, Sick, the band went on an indefinite hiatus in 2002.
In 2008, McKagan rejoined Guns N' Roses and played with the band until their dissolution in 2015. Following the band's breakup, McKagan released his third solo album, How to Be a Man, in 2015. The album was critically acclaimed and featured contributions from other artists including Shooter Jennings and Shooter's father, Waylon Jennings.
Outside of music, McKagan also wrote two books: It's So Easy (and Other Lies) and How to Be a Man (And Other Illusions). In addition, he has a column for Seattle Weekly and contributes regularly to ESPN's Grantland.
McKagan is an iconic figure in the rock 'n' roll scene and has achieved immense success throughout his career. He is regarded as one of the greatest bassists of all time and his contributions to the music world have earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
