[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.
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[For Beginners] Classic LA Metal Masterpieces: A Summary of Staple Favorite Songs (11–20)
Dr. FeelgoodMötley Crüe
Mötley Crüe, a band that epitomizes the LA metal scene of the ’80s.
The title track from their landmark 1989 album Dr.
Feelgood became a signature song that powered the band to their first No.
1 on the U.S.
album chart.
Known for being created while the members were sober from drugs and alcohol, the song tells a story of the pleasures—and the ruinous dependency—brought by a figure known as the “doctor.” Riding on a blend of funky rhythms and heavy guitar riffs, you can practically see the protagonist getting drawn deeper into a dangerous world.
Why not immerse yourself in the heat of ’80s rock while experiencing the power and groove that defined LA metal?
I Wanna Be SomebodyW.A.S.P.
W.A.S.P.
is a heavy metal band from Los Angeles, USA, also known for their provocative stage shows.
Their debut song, which put their name on the global map, is a rock number that sings of the universal longing to “be somebody.” Their debut album, W.A.S.P., released in 1984 and featuring this track, is known as a classic and was certified Gold by the RIAA.
Its powerful guitars and catchy melodies are sure to stir the listener’s heart.
If you’re looking to break out of your current situation or reach for big dreams, this song will surely give you courage.
Its selection at No.
84 on VH1’s “100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs” also speaks to its appeal.
To Hell With The DevilStryper
Stryper, the American band known for their striking yellow-and-black visuals.
This song, which embodies their beliefs, carries a powerful message of rejecting every temptation and staying on the right path.
Beyond the lyrical world, the dramatic progression woven by Michael Sweet’s soaring high-tone vocals and the heavy guitar sound is equally captivating.
It’s the title track from the classic album To Hell with the Devil, released in October 1986, and the album achieved the landmark of becoming the first Christian metal record to be certified Platinum in January 1988.
When you want to accomplish something or fire yourself up, listening to it might give you great courage.
Hold on to 18Black ‘n Blue
The band Black ‘N Blue hails from Portland, USA.
Their signature track channels the frustrations of youth and a thirst for freedom into an energetic sound.
Many listeners will likely relate to the rebelliousness against growing up and the anxiety about the future, coupled with the drive to live fully in the moment.
Powerful guitar riffs and Jamie St.
James’s soaring high-register vocals stir the listener’s spirit.
The track appears on their August 1984 album “Black ’N Blue,” where it reached No.
50 on the Billboard charts.
It’s the perfect song to play when you want to break out of a rut or need the courage to take a first step—guaranteed to give you a push forward!
Rock and Roll (Is Gonna Set the Night on Fire)Pretty Boy Floyd
Hailing from Hollywood, USA, Pretty Boy Floyd burst onto the LA metal scene with flashy looks and an explosive sound.
This track—one of the band’s signature songs—from their classic album “Leather Boyz with Electric Toyz” is irresistibly catchy, with lyrics that brim with youthful energy and a melody that hooks listeners instantly.
Released in 1989, its music video went into heavy rotation on MTV.
Soaring high-tone vocals and dazzling guitar riffs capture the euphoric feeling of igniting the night with music.
Crank it up for a weekend mood boost or as the perfect companion for a drive, and feel the power of this sound.