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[For Beginners] Classic LA Metal Anthems: A Roundup of the Most Popular Standards
In the United States during the 1980s, many bands emerged that combined a distinctive sound adding glamorous elements to heavy metal with flashy looks; these bands came to be known as glam metal or hair metal.
In Japan, those bands—especially the ones from Los Angeles—were given a unique label: “LA metal,” and they had a major impact on the Japanese metal scene.
The soundscape woven by powerful guitar riffs, lyrical melodies, and soaring high-pitched vocals continues to captivate many listeners even today.
This time, we’ll introduce classic songs that are perfect for learning about the history and allure of LA metal.
[For Beginners] Classic LA metal masterpieces: A roundup of essential popular tracks (1–10)
Round And RoundRatt
One of the biggest hits by Ratt, a representative band of LA metal.
It was released as a single in 1984.
The song is about a woman who broke a man’s heart, and it was written by lead singer Stephen Pearcy and guitarists Robbin Crosby and Warren DeMartini.
18 And LifeSkid Row
A song released as a single by Skid Row in 1989.
It was inspired by a newspaper article guitarist Dave “Snake” Sabo read about an 18-year-old boy who shot and killed his friend.
In 1989, it became one of the most-aired music videos on MTV.
High EnoughDamn Yankees
A song by Damn Yankees, the supergroup formed by Jack Blades of Night Ranger, Tommy Shaw of Styx, and Ted Nugent of The Amboy Dukes.
Released in 1990, it was their debut single.
It reached No.
2 on the U.S.
charts and was also a hit in countries such as Poland, Canada, and New Zealand.
Turn up the RadioAutograph
A song released as a single in 1984 by Autograph, a glam metal band from Los Angeles.
It was their only hit, reaching No.
17 on the U.S.
charts.
The track has been featured in the TV drama Miami Vice and the video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City.
Cum On Feel The NoizeQuiet Riot
This is an irresistibly upbeat party anthem that epitomizes the frenzy of ’80s L.A.
metal! Performed by the American band Quiet Riot, it practically transports you into the excitement of a live show just by listening.
A cover of a song originally released by Slade in the ’70s, its lyrics carry a simple yet powerful message: forget your everyday frustrations and let’s all go wild together.
Released in 1983, it was included on the landmark album Metal Health, the first heavy metal record in history to reach No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
Thanks to the massive success of this track, the band shot to stardom.
Also featured in the film Footloose, this song is the perfect companion for a drive or anytime you want to boost your mood!
In My DreamsDokken
A signature song by the American band Dokken that portrays a longing for a lover you can meet only in dreams.
The piece is captivating not only for Don Dokken’s wistful, high-toned vocals but also for George Lynch’s aggressive yet dazzling guitar solo.
The contrast between the heartrending melody and the intense guitar sound further accentuates the song’s dramatic atmosphere.
The album featuring this track, Under Lock and Key, was certified Platinum in April 1987.
Why not immerse yourself in the lyrical allure of hard rock while picturing a beautiful story?
Fly To The AngelsSlaughter
A worldwide hit by the American glam metal band Slaughter.
It was also their biggest commercial success.
The song is a kind of requiem for a lover or close friend and is included on their debut album, Stick It to Ya, released in 1990.