In 1991, after the release of Blind Melon’s disappointingly E.P. on Capitol Records called “The Sippin’ Time Sessions“, Shannon Hoon became re-acquainted with Guns N’ Roses’ leand singer Axl Rose, an old friend of his sister from their small hometown in Lafayette, Indiana. Rose invited Hoon to sing back-up vocals on several tracks on Guns N’ Roses’ now infamous “Use Your Illusion I & II“. Most notably, Hoon sang a duet with Rose on the ballad “Don’t Cry” where his underrated harmony vocals from the late played a significant role.

Here is a screen cap of Axl and Shannon in the “Don’t Cry” video.

Shannon even wore a Blind Melon vest in the video…

Rose took Hoon under his wing, jump starting Blind Melon’s career and, in the process, forming a meaningful friendship.

These are Shannon’s credits on the Guns N’ Roses’ Use You Illusions I & II album.

Live And Let Die – Background vocals
Don’t Cry – Vocals
You Ain’t The First – Vocals
November Rain – Background vocals, choir
The Garden – Background vocals
Don’t Cry (alt. lyrics) – Vocals

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