14 Years by Guns N' Roses

Album: Use Your Illusion 2 (1991)

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Songfacts®:

The title is a reference to the friendship between Izzy Stradlin and Axl Rose; they had known each other for 14 years when the song was written in 1990. When Stradlin presented the song to Rose, Axl told him that he was also working on a song called "14 Years," so they used parts of both songs to create one.
In this song, Axl Rose lashes out at critics who did not give Guns N' Roses credit for paying their dues. The lyrics reflect the destitute poverty and dangerous circumstances they endured as they worked their way up. In concerts, Axl sometimes introduced the song by saying: "This is for all of those who have the impression that we're any form of an overnight success." >>>
Suggestion credit:
Bertrand - Paris, France, for above 2

Comments: 15

Deco from UsaI always tought that It was a lyric written by Izzy about Axl.. It makes much sense If you read It this way. Tô me, one of the greatest songs gnr ever made.
Jeffrey Saint HartfordThe song has to do with the pain and suffering that Axel and Izzy endured while they were coming up through the ranks, specifically the critics who never gave Izzy axle Guns N’ Roses any credit they Deserved. That s--t caused a lot of problems and put them in a lot of dangerous situations from what I hear
Fran from ItalyBut what the line during the bridge says?
Evestradlin from Paris, FranceIzzy is credited but he has nothing to do with the song? Manson, you don't know a thing! This song is a pure creature of Mr Stradlin, that's why he wrote the song, he used to sing this song live and that's why they stopped playing it after he left. This song was written in 1991. Izzy was 29, so I think he was too young for 14 years of marriage. Probably it's about his friendship with Axl and probably some parts are written together with him. But I'm sure it has nothing to do with Manson. (and Yeah he ha a great voice!)
Pete from Los Angeles, CaThis song has nothing to do with Charles Manson. It's written by Stradlin about Axl. Which is likely the reason this hasn't been played live by the band since Izzy left. As for Charlie, GN'R covered a Manson song on The Spaghetti Incident (last studio album with original lineup) called "Look At Your Game, Girl". It was a hidden track after the final listed song on the album.
Manson from La, Ca After Manson was charged with the crimes he was later convicted of, recordings of songs written and performed by him were released commercially. Artists, including Guns N' Roses, White Zombie and Marilyn Manson, have covered his songs. this is from the wiki encyclopedia.. google charles manson. its all there
Manson from La, Caone more thing the you he refers to are cult members such as Squeaky Fromm... Linda Kasabian.. ect..
Manson from La, Caseems you need enlightenment about this song. izzy is credited with this song however he did not write it. it is a song by charles manson. you just dont step inside and do14 years is a reference to prison and the length of time he was in up to that period. 14 years that are gone forever and i'll never have again.. well.. i would hope you get the meaning now. manson was payed for his songs and still writes them. this song was very controversial when it first came out. not many people wanna credit a murderer for thier music.
Dane from Green Cove Springs Fla., FlI love this one.I always thought Izzy was the most talented G&R member,not to mention the smartest.After he left,it was over as far as I'm concerned.They made some great music.Too bad personal/musical differences did 'em in...
Alex from Ocean, NjIzzy's got a great voice! Too bad people don't give him any credit for writing AND singing this song.
Takae from London, United KingdomIt's been said that the original version were written when Axl felt betrayed by Izzy for making critical comments about him in a magazine interview. This was during a time when GnR (especially Axl) experienced bad press. They had a big fight over the interview, and made a truce later. As part of the truce, Izzy helped him finish the song.
Jason from State Of Fitz, NjIn this song, Axl Rose lashes out at critics who did not give Guns N' Roses credit for paying their dues.Are you kidding me with that interpetation? especially since Izzy wrote the majority of the lyrics.
Jason from State Of Fitz, Njhow is 14 years about Axl and Izzy's relationship? he's riping a woman. You could say it's about the the two of them, but I don't think so
Declan from Liverpoolhmm the lyrics are clearly pointing towards a failed marriage.
Victoria from BÃ?rum, Norway14 years of pain! wow...

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