[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 Favorites (31–40)
PanamaVan Halen
A song released as a single by Van Halen in 1984.
It was the last song recorded with David Lee Roth as the lead singer.
It was inspired by a stripper they met in Arizona.
It became a hit in the United States, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other countries.
House Of PainFaster Pussycat
A song released in 1990 by Faster Pussycat.
The message in the song and its music video resonated with many people affected by divorce.
Written by Taime Downe and Greg Steele, it was the band’s only hit to reach the Top 40 on the charts.
You Give Love A Bad NameBon Jovi
A song released as a single in 1986 by the American rock band Bon Jovi.
It was created by Jon Bon Jovi, Desmond Child, and Richie Sambora in the basement of Sambora’s family home in New Jersey.
It was covered in 2005 by the Polish singer Mandaryna.
Lick It UpKISS
A song released as a single in 1983 by the early Kiss, before they adopted their distinctive makeup and costumes.
It was written by Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons.
The song, sung from a male perspective, includes sexual elements and is about living in the moment.
Talk Dirty To MePoison
A song by the rock band Poison, formed in Pennsylvania in 1983.
Released as a single in 1987, it became their first hit.
The song is about having a good time with an adventurous woman.
The music video was directed by Doug Freel, who had worked on Def Leppard’s projects.