The original cover of Guns N’ Roses “Appetite For Destruction” was  based on a Robert Williams painting appropriately titled “Appetite for Destruction.”  It depicted a robotic rapist about to be punished by a metal avenger.  Here’s the original album cover…

Here’s the original painting…

After some music retailers refused to stock the album, Geffen Records put the photo on the inside and replaced it with an image depicting a cross and skulls of the five band members with each skull representing one member of the band: Izzy Stradlin, top skull; Steven Adler, left skull; Axl Rose, center skull; Duff McKagan, right skull; and Slash, bottom skull.

The design by Billy White Jr., was originally a tattoo on Axl Roses’ right forearm.  Check it out…

Another interesting thing is that the vinyl version of the album is also split up into side “G” and side “R” instead of “A” and “B”.  Tracks 1-6 which on side “G” all deal with drugs and hard life in the big city (“Guns” side).

Tracks 1-6 on side “R”, all deal with love, sex and relationships (“Roses” side).

 The artwork for “Use Your Illusions I & II” was also based off of a painting.  Clicl below for that story…

Guns N’ Roses “Use Your Illusions I & II” Album Cover Is Part Of A Vatican Painting By Raphael

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