[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 Roundup of Essential Popular Songs (21–30)
The Last MileCinderella
A song by the hard rock/glam metal band Cinderella, released as a single in 1989.
It reached No.
18 on the U.S.
charts.
The track features a sound rooted in British blues and self-confessional lyrics in a Delta style.
HeavenWarrant
The biggest hit by the American glam metal band Warrant.
Released as a single in 1989, it’s a soft pop ballad.
The song sings about how heaven exists on earth as long as he’s with the woman he loves.
It reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts and was also a hit in countries like Norway and Canada.
Don’t Close Your EyesKix
A power ballad released as a single in 1989 by the glam rock/metal band Kix.
It became their only charting breakout hit and still receives substantial airplay on rock radio stations today.
When The Children CryWhite Lion
A song written by vocalist Mike Tramp and guitarist Vito Bratta.
It was released as a single by the rock band White Lion in 1988 and became their biggest hit.
It reached No.
4 on the U.S.
charts and also charted in Sweden, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Kiss Me DeadlyLita Ford
A song by American rock guitarist and actress Lita Ford, also known for her work with The Runaways.
Released as a single in 1988, it became one of her signature songs.
It reached No.
12 on the U.S.
charts and was also a hit in New Zealand and the United Kingdom.