Wow, this thread brings back some great memories. From watching the Ritz show for the first time, to hearing "Civil War" on the radio for the first time in 1990. In fact, I remember it being advertised about the world premiere of the song, giving the time for the first play, etc. I had my cassette tape ready to roll for when it came on. I recorded it and played the shit out of it until UYI came out the next summer.

I have several that are special to me, but gotta say "Estranged" tops the list. Like others have said, when I heard it initially after UYI's release, I don't think I got it totally. I usually skipped it to get to "You Could Be Mine". But then when the video came out, I began to listen a little more closely. Over the years, specifically the late 90s and early 00s, it hit me. It is a masterpiece, and one that I think is massively underrated by most rock fans. It is so perfect in every way.

I love "Its So Easy" for the pure punk and 'fuck you' attitude of that song. It still sounds as raw and fresh as it did 24 years ago. The groove of "Mr. Brownstone" is so funky and I love Axl's vocals. The balls of "One In A Million". Wow! My favorite version of "Patience" is actually from Paris 1992. Slash's solo just totally takes that song to another level.

Man, I could write for days on the songs I love, so I guess I'll leave it there. Thanks for this thread, and the positive vibes towards the band we all love. I don't post often anymore, but just couldn't pass this one up!

Axlin08 wrote:

Welcome To The Jungle (1988 MTV VMA's)

[youtube]SxOkRDdZELw&feature=fvst[/youtube]

NOW THAT'S A FUCKIN' BAND!

I will never EVER forget that performance. Hands down the greatest performance in VMA history.

I would have loved for that summer 91 GNR lineup to perform at the VMA's instead of them showing Live and Let Die from a satellite feed from a previous show on the tour. They would have blown the roof off that place. Band was on fire and so unpredictable at the time that had they actually been at the VMA's, might have performed several songs and kept on performing until MTV unplugged the sound and went to a commercial break.