[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)
Never EnoughL.A. Guns
L.A.
Guns from the U.S.
are a band with full-on dirty, sleazy charm, yet their lyrics are pretty intense—this addictive track has captivated many with that very gap.
Sung over powerful guitar riffs and a catchy melody is a theme of human desire that can never be satisfied.
That slightly decadent, ravenous message is a major part of the song’s appeal.
Back in 1989, their second album Cocked & Loaded, which includes this track, reached No.
38 on the U.S.
charts and was certified Platinum.
If you want to experience the wild, glitzy world of LA metal, this is a perfect place to start.
Give ‘Em the AxeLizzy Borden
Opening with a skull-crackingly shocking intro, this is the American band Lizzy Borden.
It’s the title track of their debut EP, released in May 1984, and a signature song for the band! The razor-sharp twin guitars that swing down like an axe and the piercing high-note vocals are absolutely intense.
Its aggressive worldview, like bringing a hammer of wrath down on society’s injustices, will hook you after a single listen.
This work marked the starting point for the band that would go on to create classics like Visual Lies.
Put it on when you want to blow away your daily frustrations, and you’ll be swept up in a rush of exhilaration.
If you need the energy to fight the unfairness around you, this is a must-listen.
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.
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!
Poison IvyFaster Pussycat
Faster Pussycat is a glam metal band from Los Angeles, known for their bluesy, slightly dirty sound.
Titled after a dangerous plant, this track is an addictive rock number that portrays a precarious romantic game you can’t escape once you touch it.
With groovy guitar riffs reminiscent of Aerosmith and sultry, seductive vocals, it’s a song that has captivated countless listeners.
Released in August 1989, it appears on the acclaimed album “Wake Me When It’s Over,” which earned Gold certification.
The music video became popular on MTV, significantly boosting the band’s profile.
It’s perfect not only for flashy rock moments, but also for nights when you want something adult and languid.
Never Gonna DieRough Cutt
Rough Cutt is a powerhouse American band that produced virtuosos like Jake E.
Lee and Claude Schnell, who made their mark with Ozzy Osbourne and Dio.
Featured on their debut album “Rough Cutt,” this track is a powerful rock number that celebrates an indomitable spirit that refuses to yield to hardship.
The heavy guitar sound produced by Tom Allom intertwines with Paul Shortino’s soulful high-register vocals, igniting the listener’s heart.
Although originally a cover of The Quireboys, it became one of the band’s signature songs, notably performed at a Japanese festival in August 1985 and captured on film.
It’s the perfect track to play when you need the courage to face a challenge or when you want to boost your spirits—fuel for tomorrow.
[For Beginners] Classic LA Metal Masterpieces: A Roundup of Essential Popular Songs (21–30)
Kickstart My HeartMötley Crüe
A song released as a single by Mötley Crüe in 1989.
It was written by bassist Nikki Sixx.
The track was used in a Kia Optima commercial aired during the 2012 Super Bowl and in a 2014 Dodge Charger commercial.