Slash Reveals Surprising Truth: His Mother’s Romance With David Bowie Shaped His Wild Childhood

In an interview that shed light on the rock legend’s turbulent early years, Slash (real name Saul Hudson) shared intimate details of his childhood, offering a glimpse into the wild world that shaped the legendary guitarist behind Guns N’ Roses. From growing up in the heart of the music industry to experiencing the unconventional lifestyle of rockstars, Slash’s upbringing was anything but ordinary. What’s perhaps most shocking, though, is the revelation that his mother, the glamorous costume designer, had a romance with none other than David Bowie during Slash’s youth.

A Love Affair with the Iconic David Bowie

Slash’s mother, a successful designer known for her bold fashion choices, had a working relationship with David Bowie before their romance blossomed. As young Slash explained, “My mom and dad were separated,” and this paved the way for a relationship between her and the legendary rock star. Bowie, who was already a cultural icon at the time, wasn’t just a fleeting figure in Slash’s childhood. He was a regular guest at their home, and Slash had the privilege of meeting one of rock’s greatest icons as a child.

“Yeah, I mean, he’s way cool,” Slash said when reminiscing about Bowie’s presence in his life at the time. “You would see David Bowie. Yeah, yeah, he would hang out in the house.” For a young boy, having such a larger-than-life figure in your life must have been surreal. But, as Slash noted, the affair didn’t last long—about a year and a half—but it undeniably left its mark on his formative years.

Growing Up in a World of Rock ‘n’ Roll

Growing up in such an unconventional environment had its ups and downs. Slash’s childhood was full of experiences that most children would never encounter. “There were almost no rules how you grew up,” he confessed. From partying with adults to being introduced to drugs at a young age, it seemed like there was no limit to the wild lifestyle he was exposed to.

One shocking revelation was that one of his mother’s boyfriends introduced him to drugs at the tender age of 12. “He came to me and he’s like, ‘I know you do this stuff,’” Slash recalled, referring to the photographer who was dating his mom at the time. “We’d go into the dark room and he’d get me loaded—12 years old, all night.” This kind of exposure to drugs and adult behavior so early in life undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the young musician.

But, as Slash reflected, these experiences could have easily led him down a darker path. “If you hadn’t had the musical gift… you could have easily just ended up with no money, no life,” he admitted. In other words, had he not found his outlet in music, the consequences of his tumultuous childhood could have been far more severe. Instead, music became his salvation, guiding him through the chaos.

Music as a Lifeline

Despite the hardships, Slash credits his musical passion as the key to his survival. “All things considered, I probably would have ended up being an artist,” he said. And while he acknowledges that talent played a role in his success, it was his deep love for music that kept him grounded. The musician’s drive and determination, combined with his talent, ultimately led him to become one of the most iconic guitarists in rock history.

Had it not been for his passion for music, he might have fallen into the pitfalls that claimed many of his peers. As Slash pointed out, “The musical passion… that’s what’s got me to the point where I’m still here right now.” Music saved him from the potentially destructive elements of his environment, providing him with a purpose that transcended the chaos of his upbringing.

The Influence of Rock Star Parents

Slash’s story is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of growing up in the spotlight, especially when your parents are heavily involved in the entertainment industry. His mother’s relationship with David Bowie wasn’t just a fleeting romance; it was a significant part of his childhood. Being around such influential figures, combined with the freedom of an unconventional upbringing, made for a tumultuous and wild ride.

Yet, it’s also what fueled Slash’s musical journey. While many might have succumbed to the pressures of his environment, Slash managed to harness his experiences and turn them into a powerful creative force. His musical journey, which started with an intense love of art and fashion, transformed into one of the most influential careers in rock ‘n’ roll history.

In the end, Slash’s story is a testament to the unpredictable, often chaotic nature of fame, family, and growing up in the heart of rock culture. And while David Bowie may have been just one of many iconic figures in his life, he undeniably left a lasting impression on Slash’s early years, shaping the man—and the musician—he would become.