Erin Everly was Axl Rose’s muse and former wife. You may know her as the inspiration behind ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine.’ The song’s opening lines, ‘She’s got a smile that it seems to me / Reminds me of childhood memories,’ are said to be about Erin. But there’s so much more to her story than just being Axl’s muse.
Everly’s life has been a wild ride. Let’s see five things you may not know about her.
1. Axl Rose Punched David Bowie After A Jealousy Fit
It all went down on October 10, 1989, when Bowie showed up at ‘It’s So Easy’s video set. Bowie was paying too much attention to Erin, and Axl didn’t like that. so he punched Bowie and kicked him off the set. Bowie apologized instead of holding a grudge, and the two went out drinking at the China Club.
2. Erin Everly’s Scream Was Used In A Song
Erin and Axl’s relationship was rocky, and everyone knew it. But did you know that Erin’s screaming was allegedly used in a Great White song? Yes, the band supposedly used a recording of Erin trying to fend off punches from Axl on their ‘Psycho City’ album.
3. Their Relationship Turned Into A Nightmare
Erin accused Axl of assault and sexual battery in March 1994. She revealed some disturbing details about their relationship, like how Axl removed all the doors in her apartment so he could always keep an eye on her.
It gets weirder, though. Erin also said Rose thought he was possessed by John Bonham’s spirit. He even accused her of killing their children in a past life as Native Americans. These allegations led to a lawsuit, but it was eventually settled out of court.
4. Erin Everly Sold Their Memories
Erin auctioned off a bunch of stuff from her time with Axl in December 2013. The sale included Axl’s photos, love letters he wrote to Erin, handwritten song lyrics, clothing he wore in music videos, and even their marriage certificate. The auction was part of an event called ‘Icons and Idols 2013: Rock N’ Roll.’ It also featured a guitar owned by Jerry Garcia.
5. Axl Rose Wasn’t The Only Rockstar She Dated
Erin moved on and dated quite a few famous celebs after her separation from Axl. Her ex-boyfriends include David Arquette, Anthony Kiedis from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Donovan Jerome Leitch (son of singer-songwriter Donovan), Matthew Nelson, and Matthew Klyn.
Bonus: She Comes From A Famous Family
Did you know Erin comes from a super-talented family? Her dad is the Everly Brothers’ Don Everly. Her mom, Venetia Stevenson, was an actress. Erin was born and raised in Los Angeles, and she grew up in a famous family.