“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” is a song originally written and performed by Bob Dylan for the soundtrack of the 1973 film “Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid.” Guns N’ Roses began performing “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” live in the late 1980s. They released the song first in 1987 on the 12-inch single of “Welcome to the Jungle”. In 1990, the band released a studio version for the soundtrack of the Tony Scott’s film “Days of Thunder” that reached No. 18 on the US Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart.
In May 1992, they released a slightly modified version as the second single from their fourth studio album “Use Your Illusion II.” The cover version by Guns N’ Roses became one of their most recognizable songs and brought a new audience to Dylan’s classic.
Bob Dylan’s original “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” is a simple, poignant ballad that reflects themes of mortality and loss. The song was used in the film during a scene where a sheriff is dying, enhancing its somber and reflective tone. The original version features acoustic guitar and a minimal arrangement, emphasizing Dylan’s heartfelt vocal delivery.
The music video for Guns N’ Roses’ “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” was directed by Andy Morahan and features live performance footage from their 1992 world tour.
Guns N’ Roses’ cover of “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” achieved significant commercial success. It peaked at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart and reached the top in several European countries. The song’s popularity helped to further elevate the band’s status in the early 1990s and introduced Dylan’s classic to a new generation of listeners.