Billboard reports that Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Tupac, N.W.A., U2, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and other artists put out landmark hits in 1991.
But the two biggest rock titans at the time were undoubtedly Metallica, who released the self-titled record known as “The Black Album,” spearheaded by hits “Enter Sandman” and “Nothing Else Matters,” and Guns N’ Roses, who put forth “Use Your Illusion I & II” in September to enormous fanfare.
According to Ultimate Classic Rock, the two bands decided to join forces for a brief 1992 stint in North America. It made sense on paper for the two biggest bands on earth to share a bill, but the partnership was fraught with drama and controversy, largely due to the antics of GN’R frontman Axl Rose. On one fateful night in Montreal, it all fell apart.
During the opening notes of “Fade to Black,” James Hetfield accidentally wandered into the path of a pyrotechnic blast and had to be rushed to the hospital with second- and third-degree burns. Guns N’ Roses agreed to take the stage early to appease a restless crowd, but then Rose stormed offstage halfway through the show, complaining about sound issues.
The crowd lost it. The ensuing riot spilled into the streets, where fires were set and cars were overturned. At least three police officers and 10 rioters were reportedly injured.
“I go and light myself on fire,” Hetfield later remarked on VH1’s “Behind the Music,” “and he upstages me.”
