25 Albums That Nearly Ended Successful Music Careers

After years of anticipation and numerous delays, "Chinese Democracy" was expected to be a triumphant return for Guns N' Roses. However, the album, which reportedly cost over $13 million to produce, was met with mixed reviews and disappointing sales.

Critics were divided, with some praising the production and musicianship while others lamented the lack of the band's original members and the over-polished sound. The album's release marked a low point for the band, leading to doubts about their future in the industry.

Despite the initial backlash, "Chinese Democracy" has since gained a cult following, and its legacy has been reassessed more favorably in recent years. The album's troubled history, combined with Axl Rose's persistence, ultimately set the stage for the band's later reunion and return to stadium tours.