Former Guns N ' Roses guitarist kicked addictions four years ago . Told CNN that it was getting in the way of the music ; continues to play and perform . Since leaving Guns N ' Roses in 1996 -- `` As I walked out it was a huge weight off my shoulders '' -- he 's produced his own material , collaborated with numerous musicians and was the driving force behind supergroup Velvet Revolver , a band he 's trying to revive once again . Comment:
Former Guns N ' Roses guitarist kicked addictions four years ago . Told CNN that it was getting in the way of the music ; continues to play and perform . Comment: