Rock Legends Unite: The Story Behind Axl Rose and Alice Cooper’s ‘Under My Wheels’ Collaboration

The unlikely but electrifying collaboration between Axl Rose and Alice Cooper on “Under My Wheels” is a tale of mutual respect, late-night calls, and the transformation of supporting acts into legends. Here’s how it unfolded:

Guns N’ Roses Opens for Alice Cooper

In the early days of their career, Guns N’ Roses landed a significant opportunity by opening for Alice Cooper on tour. This tour was more than just a gig; it was a pivotal moment that would lay the groundwork for an iconic collaboration. The young band, led by the charismatic Axl Rose, found themselves in the company of one of rock’s enduring legends. This is where the paths of Guns N’ Roses and Alice Cooper first intersected, planting the seeds of mutual admiration and respect.

The 3 AM Call

Rock ‘n’ roll is known for its spontaneous and impulsive moments, and the story behind “Under My Wheels” is no exception. According to Alice Cooper, it was during the wee hours of the morning, specifically at 2 AM, when he received an unexpected call from Axl Rose. The idea? To re-record Cooper’s classic track “Under My Wheels” together. This late-night call not only underscores Axl’s passion for the project but also the raw, unfiltered energy that characterized Guns N’ Roses during their early days. It was a bold move, but one that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of rock.

A Match Made in Rock Heaven

“Under My Wheels,” originally an Alice Cooper song from the 1970s, is a hard-hitting track with Cooper’s signature raspy vocals leading the charge. Bringing Axl Rose into the mix added a new dimension to the song. Axl’s soaring, powerful vocals meshed seamlessly with Cooper’s gritty delivery, resulting in a dynamic and powerful rendition of the classic. The collaboration highlighted the strengths of both artists, blending their unique styles into a version that was both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

The Decline of Western Civilization Part II

This re-recorded version of “Under My Wheels” was not merely a casual jam session; it secured a spot on the soundtrack for the documentary “The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years.” The film, which documented the excesses and exploits of the 1980s metal scene, provided the perfect backdrop for this explosive collaboration. By being part of this iconic soundtrack, the new version of “Under My Wheels” cemented its place in rock history, further solidifying the legendary status of both Alice Cooper and Axl Rose.

Legacy and Impact

The collaboration between Alice Cooper and Axl Rose on “Under My Wheels” is a testament to the timeless nature of rock music. It showcased how different generations of rock musicians could come together to create something that transcends time and genre. For Guns N’ Roses, it was a significant milestone, a nod from one of rock’s greats, validating their place in the annals of rock history. For Alice Cooper, it was a chance to reintroduce one of his classic tracks to a new generation of fans, ensuring its enduring legacy.

This story of mutual respect and creative synergy between Axl Rose and Alice Cooper is a shining example of how rock legends are born and how their legacies are interwoven. “Under My Wheels” is more than just a song; it’s a symbol of the enduring spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.