Estranged

by Guns N' Roses
Album	Use Your Illusion II
Language
English title
A-side
B-side
Released	1991
Recorded
Studio
Genre	Hard rock

"Estranged" is a song by the American hard rock band Guns N' Roses. It appears on their fourth studio album, Use Your Illusion II, which was released in 1991. The song is notable for its length and complexity, spanning over nine minutes and incorporating various tempo changes, guitar solos, and a wide range of Axl Rose's vocal styles.

Background

"Estranged" was written by Axl Rose, the band's lead vocalist and primary lyricist. The song is considered one of the band's most ambitious compositions, often compared to their other lengthy songs such as "November Rain" and "Coma". "Estranged" is known for its introspective lyrics, which deal with Rose's personal feelings of alienation and loss, themes that are recurrent in the Use Your Illusion albums.

Music and lyrics

The song features a complex structure with several distinct sections, including a soft piano introduction, heavy guitar riffs, and multiple guitar solos performed by Slash. The lyrical content of "Estranged" reflects Rose's feelings during a difficult period in his life, including his estrangement from his bandmates and his personal relationships.

Reception

Upon its release, "Estranged" received mixed to positive reviews from music critics. While some praised its ambitious nature and emotional depth, others found it overly long and disjointed. Despite this, the song has gained a significant following among fans of Guns N' Roses and is often featured in the band's live performances.

Music video

The music video for "Estranged" is part of a trilogy that includes the videos for "Don't Cry" and "November Rain". Directed by Andy Morahan, the video is known for its elaborate production and symbolic imagery, featuring scenes of Rose swimming with dolphins and a dramatic reenactment of a police raid.

Legacy

"Estranged" remains one of Guns N' Roses' most epic tracks and is considered a highlight of the Use Your Illusion albums. It showcases the band's ability to blend hard rock with more complex and orchestral elements, making it a standout track in their discography.