Velvet Revolver was an influential American hard rock supergroup that emerged from the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles in 2002. Comprising members from iconic bands, the group featured Slash, Duff McKagan, and Matt Sorum from the legendary rock band Guns N' Roses, alongside Scott Weiland, the former lead vocalist of Stone Temple Pilots, and Dave Kushner, known for his work with punk band Wasted Youth. Velvet Revolver quickly became notable for their blend of hard rock melodies and powerful vocals, gaining a significant following and critical acclaim.

The band's formation was fueled by the desire of its members to create music that combined their diverse backgrounds while retaining a distinct sound. Velvet Revolver's rise to fame was marked by the release of their debut album, Contraband, in 2004. The album achieved commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and selling over three million copies in the United States alone. Critics, however, often described the band as a fusion of Stone Temple Pilots and Guns N' Roses, with some expressing concerns about a perceived disconnect between Weiland's vocal style and the band's instrumental prowess.

The single "Slither" from Contraband became a defining moment for the band, earning them a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2005. The group's sophomore effort, Libertad, was released in 2007, showcasing their growth as artists and featuring the popular single "She Builds Quick Machines." Following the album's release, Velvet Revolver embarked on a tour alongside Alice in Chains, further solidifying their place in the rock music landscape.

However, in April 2008, Velvet Revolver faced a significant turning point when Weiland was fired from the band, subsequently reuniting with Stone Temple Pilots. In the wake of his departure, Velvet Revolver entered a period of indefinite hiatus and sought to be released from their record label, RCA Records, to explore new avenues for their music. Although they worked on new material and auditioned potential replacements for Weiland, the band did not release any new songs and only performed publicly once since 2008, reuniting for a one-off benefit concert on January 12, 2012. This performance marked their last together, as Weiland tragically passed away on December 3, 2015.

In the years following their hiatus, both Slash and Duff McKagan rejoined Guns N' Roses in 2016, reigniting their legacy with the iconic band. As of 2025, Velvet Revolver is recognized for their contributions to the rock genre, with Jeff Mezydlo of Yardbarker including them in a list of the greatest metal acts that formed in the 2000s. Despite their relatively short career, Velvet Revolver left an indelible mark on the music world, characterized by their powerful sound and the star power of their members.