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Last updated on October 31, 2025, updated monthly. |
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 1 . David Lee Roth - California GirlsReleased in December 1984, "California Girls" opens David Lee Roth’s solo career with a nod to The Beach Boys, whose original version hit the same #3 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965. Roth brings in Carl Wilson and Christopher Cross for backing vocals, a move that sounds more like homage than reinvention. Ted Templeman, fresh off producing Van Halen, handles the studio work, keeping things familiar without straying far from the blueprint. The video lands in February 1985 and stars Roth as a tour guide shepherding clueless tourists—Jane Leeves included—through a model-filled beach pit stop. MTV gives it heavy rotation; award nominations follow, though no hardware is mentioned. The song lingers on the Hot 100 for 16 weeks, enough time to make the transition from band frontman to solo act seem less abrupt. Performances on The Andy Williams Show and Jack Benny Hour in October 1985 extend the shelf life just a bit longer. It also racks up decent numbers abroad, landing at #6 in Australia, #8 in Canada, and limping in at #68 in the UK. The music video is directed by Pete Angelus. Writer(s) : Michael Edward Love, Brian Douglas Wilson Publisher(s) : Sea Of Tunes Publ Co
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 3 . Asia - Heat Of The MomentAsia's hit "Heat Of The Moment," released in 1982, features catchy guitar riffs and powerful vocal harmonies. Asia, a supergroup of members from Yes, King Crimson, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer, made a big impact in the '80s. John Wetton admits the lyrics are essentially apologies for his behavior towards a woman he later married and divorced. The song was also featured in the film "The 40 Year-Old Virgin" (2005) by Judd Apatow, starring Steve Carell. The music video is directed by Godley & Creme. Writer(s) : Geoffrey Downes, John Wetton Publisher(s) : Almond Legg Music Corp, Nosebag Music Inc Featured on the 1982 album Asia
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 4 . Cheap Trick - The FlameReleased in 1988, "The Flame" marked a critical turning point for Cheap Trick, a band that had seen their commercial fortunes wane during the mid-'80s slump. This power ballad, crafted by British songwriters Bob Mitchell and Nick Graham, deviated from the band’s usual self-written repertoire, a decision born out of an external demand for fresh collaborations on their album "Lap of Luxury." With themes of heartfelt longing, devotion, and vulnerability, the song's shimmering production by Richie Zito elevated its emotional impact without veering into excessive melodrama. Clocking in at just over four minutes, "The Flame" burned brightly on the charts, claiming the top spot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and basking in similar glory internationally, including Canada and parts of Europe. Critics often view it as an unusually polished moment for a band more associated with power-pop grit than soaring earnestness, yet this calculated shift in tone undeniably rekindled Cheap Trick’s mainstream appeal. The accompanying music video, a distinctly '80s concoction of hazy lighting and intense gazes, served as a visual distillation of its aching refrain, securing heavy rotation on MTV during the network's golden days of pop-rock dominance. Despite its success, die-hard fans often argue over its place in the band’s canon, torn between celebrating its chart-topping achievement and lamenting its divergence from their raw, quirky edge. Still, as a staple in their live sets at major venues and festivals around the world, "The Flame" refuses to flicker out, radiating a nostalgic glow for audiences who continue to hum its unforgettable melody decades later. Its ability to evoke a universal yearning while anchoring itself to that uniquely '80s arena-ballad aesthetic remains an enduring draw, a rare instance of calculated commercialism that resulted in a bona fide classic instead of disposable fluff. Featured on the 1988 album Lap of Luxury
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 5 . Def Leppard - Rock Of AgesInspired by the rock 'n' roll lifestyle, "Rock Of Ages" is a signature Def Leppard song released in 1983. Its famous intro, "Gunter Glieben Glauchen Globen," is gibberish invented by producer Mutt Lange to add humor. The song references Neil Young's "My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue)" with the line "It's better to burn out, than to fade away," used by the character Kurgan in the film Highlander (1986). A fun fact is the owl appearing in the video when Joe Elliott says "all right," as director David Mallet thought it sounded like "owl right." The music video is directed by David Mallet. Writer(s) : Kenneth Barry Harding, Billy Aerts Publisher(s) : Kobalt Music Services Ltd Featured on the 1983 album Pyromania
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 6 . Ozzy Osbourne - The Ultimate SinAmid the creative tensions of the mid-1980s, Ozzy Osbourne’s "The Ultimate Sin" delivers a heavy metal punch. The lyrics mix autobiography with anger, reflecting on the destructive impulses that shadow his public persona. Personal transformation post-rehab underlies this tale of addiction battles. Jake E. Lee’s keen guitar riffs and a memorable chorus inject urgency into the track. Despite disputes over songwriting credits and personnel changes, this song shines in Osbourne's discography. The music video is directed by Andrew Morahan. Writer(s) : Robert John Daisley, Jake L Williams, Ozzy Osbourne Publisher(s) : Bmg Vm Music Limited Featured on the 1986 album The Ultimate Sin
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 7 . Foreigner - I Don't Want To Live Without You"I Don't Want To Live Without You" is a powerful ballad by Foreigner, released in 1988. Formed in 1976 by Mick Jones and Ian McDonald, Foreigner became famous for their rock ballads and energetic hits. This song, characterized by its deep emotional lyrics and Lou Gramm's distinctive voice, reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. It's a staple in their live performances, often leaving audiences moved by its heartfelt delivery. Featured on the 1988 album Inside Information
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 8 . White Lion - Wait"Wait" is a successful single by hard rock band White Lion, released in 1987. It showcases Mike Tramp's powerful vocals and Vito Bratta's virtuoso guitar solo. Formed in New York in 1983 and influenced by bands like Van Halen and Led Zeppelin, White Lion saw "Wait" reach the 8th spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Writer(s) : Mike Tramp, Vito Bratta Publisher(s) : Vavoom Music Inc, Discoton Musik Edition Gmbh Featured on the 1987 album Pride
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 9 . Ratt - You're In LoveRatt's "You're In Love," penned by Stephen Pearcy, Robbin Crosby, and Juan Croucier, emerges in 1985 as a standout track on the band's second studio effort, 'Invasion of Your Privacy,' released May 30 of that year. The song claws its way to number 89 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaches number 34 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. Internationally, it secures positions at 67 on Canada's RPM Top Singles chart and 82 in the UK Singles Chart. Fueled by relentless MTV airplay, its music video bolsters its reach, weaving in the visual decadence synonymous with the era's glam metal aesthetic. A stalwart of the Ratt catalog, "You're In Love" reappears on compilations like 'Ratt & Roll 81–91' and 'Tell the World: The Very Best of Ratt,' adding to the legacy of an album celebrated with 2x Platinum RIAA certification. Writer(s) : Juan C Croucier, Stephen E Pearcy Publisher(s) : Ratt Music Featured on the 1985 album Invasion of Your Privacy
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 10 . Foreigner - I Want To Know What Love IsReleased in 1984, "I Want To Know What Love Is" was recorded in New York and produced by Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin, known for his work with Grace Jones and Duran Duran. The song features backing vocals from the New Jersey Mass Choir and Jennifer Holliday, with additional keyboard work by Tom Bailey of the Thompson Twins. It reached number one in the US and UK. The music video is directed by Brian Gibson. Writer(s) : Michael Jones Publisher(s) : Somerset Songs Publishing Inc Featured on the 1984 album Agent Provocateur
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 11 . White Lion - When The Children Cry"When The Children Cry" is an acoustic ballad by White Lion, released in 1987. The song addresses themes of peace and global unity. Often compared to Bon Jovi and Scorpions, White Lion reached the 3rd spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with this track. They performed it at the Live Aid charity concert in 1985, gaining worldwide attention. The music video is directed by Jim Hershleder ·. Writer(s) : Mike Tramp, Vito Bratta Publisher(s) : Vavoom Music Inc, Discoton Musik Edition Gmbh Featured on the 1987 album Pride
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 12 . Dio - Rainbow In The Dark"Rainbow In The Dark," released in 1983, is one of Dio's biggest hits. Ronnie James Dio, former singer of Black Sabbath and Rainbow, left a lasting mark on heavy metal with this song. Known for its iconic keyboard riff by Claude Schnell, the song is associated with power metal and featured in the movie Rock of Ages (2012) by Adam Shankman. The music video is directed by Arthur Ellis. Writer(s) : Vivian Patric Campbell, Ronald Padavona, James Stewart Bain, Vincent Appice Publisher(s) : Litedusting Music Ltd, Niji Music, Appice Vinny Music Featured on the 1983 album Holy Diver
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 13 . Dio - I Could Have Been A Dreamer"I Could Have Been A Dreamer" is a powerful Dio track released in 1987. Ronnie James Dio, known for his unique voice and heavy metal style, reflects on unrealized hopes and aspirations in this song. Formerly of Black Sabbath and Rainbow, Dio captivates fans with this poignant and energetic performance. Featured on the 1987 album Dream Evil
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 14 . Foreigner - Say You Will“Say You Will” is the lead single by British-American rock band Foreigner from their November 1987 album *Inside Information*. Co-written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones, it reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 on February 20, 1988 and held the top spot on the Mainstream Rock chart for four weeks starting December 19, 1987. Writer(s) : Louis A Grammatico (An Drew), Michael Jones Publisher(s) : Colgems Emi Music Inc, Somerset Songs Publishing Inc Featured on the 1987 album Inside Information
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 15 . Foreigner - UrgentReleased in 1981, "Urgent" was produced by Robert John "Mutt" Lange, also known for his work with Def Leppard and Shania Twain. Recorded in New York, it is notable for its saxophone solo by Junior Walker. The song reached the top 5 in the US and remains a rock radio staple. Writer(s) : Michael Jones Publisher(s) : Somerset Songs Publishing Inc Featured on the 1981 album 4
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 16 . Ozzy Osbourne - Crazy Train"Crazy Train" rolls out in 1980 as Ozzy Osbourne goes solo, opening his debut album *Blizzard of Ozz* with a signature yell and no interest in subtlety. The track leans heavy on Randy Rhoads' ferocious guitar riff, giving the song enough voltage to power a small nation—or at least one arena tour. Its lyrics take Cold War paranoia out for a spin, pointing fingers at global tension and offering a half-hopeful shrug with lines like "Maybe it's not too late to learn how to love and forget how to hate." Osbourne may ride a crazy train, but he’s not the only passenger; the song suggests we’re all aboard this frantic journey, heirs to a conflict nobody remembers starting. Writer(s) : Ozzy Osbourne, Robert John Daisley, Randall Rhoads Publisher(s) : Blizzard Music Ltd Featured on the 1980 album Blizzard Of Ozz
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 17 . Judas Priest - Living After MidnightReleased in 1980, "Living After Midnight" by Judas Priest is an iconic heavy metal song with a catchy guitar riff and lyrics celebrating nightlife. With Rob Halford's powerful vocals and theatrical style, Judas Priest, formed in 1969, pioneers heavy metal and influences many subsequent bands. The music video is directed by Julien Temple. Writer(s) : Robert John Ar Halford, Glenn Raymond Tipton, K K Downing Publisher(s) : Crewglen Ltd, Round Hill Songs Ii, Ebonytree Ltd Featured on the 1980 album British Steel
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 18 . Styx - BabeBabe, a power ballad by Styx, emerges as the lead single from their 1979 album Cornerstone, penned by Dennis DeYoung as a birthday tribute to his wife Suzanne. With DeYoung handling lead vocals and keyboards, Chuck Panozzo on bass, John Panozzo on drums, and Tommy Shaw delivering a guitar solo, the track becomes Styx’s sole #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, reigning for two weeks in December 1979. It clinches #1 in Canada and South Africa, #3 in Australia and New Zealand, and #6 in the UK. Originally crafted as a demo featuring DeYoung and the Panozzo brothers, its inclusion on Cornerstone follows A&M executives’ insistence after an initial listen. The song secures a People's Choice Award for Favorite New Song in 1980, earns a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group, and appears in the 1999 film Big Daddy. "Babe" charts a poppier course for Styx, causing friction within the band even as it propels Cornerstone to #2 on the Billboard album chart. Writer(s) : T J Jackson, Taryll Adren Jackson Publisher(s) : Yabo Music, Tar It Up Music Featured on the 1979 album Cornerstone
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 19 . Ratt - Lay It Down"Lay It Down," characterized by its catchy guitar riff and Stephen Pearcy's distinctive voice, is a song by Ratt released in 1985. Emerging from the Los Angeles glam metal scene in the early '80s, the song gained further popularity after being featured in the film "Weird Science" (1985) directed by John Hughes. The music video is directed by Marshall Berle. Writer(s) : Warren Just In De Martini, Robbinson L Crosby, Juan C Croucier, Stephen E Pearcy Publisher(s) : Ratt Music Featured on the 1985 album Invasion of Your Privacy
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 20 . Kingdom Come - Get It OnKingdom Come's 1988 hit "Get It On" is a hard rock anthem that reached the 4th spot on the Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart in the US. Featuring Lenny Wolf’s powerful vocals and produced by Bob Rock, this track showcases the band's signature glam metal style. Writer(s) : Marc Feld Publisher(s) : Westminster Music Ltd Featured on the 1988 album Kingdom Come
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ABOUT 80s GLAM METALWhat is 80s Glam Metal ?Glam metal, also known as “hair metal,” is a subgenre of heavy metal that springs up in the early 1980s. It’s characterized by a mix of catchy guitar riffs, virtuosic solos, and memorable melodies, often accompanied by flamboyant stage performances and extravagant outfits. The roots of glam metal are mainly in the United States, with a strong concentration of bands coming out of Los Angeles, California. The glam metal scene in LA revolves around famous clubs like Whisky a Go Go and the Roxy Theatre, where many bands launch their careers. Influenced heavily by the glam rock of the 1970s, represented by artists like David Bowie, T. Rex, and Alice Cooper, glam metal incorporates flamboyant and theatrical visual elements into rock. Added to this are influences from traditional heavy metal bands of the 1970s like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, bringing elements of power and musical intensity. 80s Glam Metal, Sound and StyleThe sound of glam metal is marked by distinctive musical elements. Guitar riffs are often catchy and powerful, designed to grab the listener’s attention immediately. Guitar solos are virtuosic, showcasing the technique and dexterity of the guitarists. Melodies are catchy and memorable, frequently accompanied by harmonized vocals that add an extra dimension to the songs. Vocal performances play a crucial role in glam metal. Singers generally have powerful and energetic voices, capable of hitting high notes and conveying strong emotional intensity. Harmonized vocals, often provided by other band members, enrich the sound and create a dense, engaging vocal texture. 80s Glam Metal, LyricsThe lyrical themes in glam metal are often recurring and reflect the hedonistic and rebellious spirit of the genre. Songs frequently talk about partying, freedom, and nightlife, celebrating a lifestyle focused on pleasure and excess. Love and relationships are also common subjects, but often addressed in a dramatic and passionate manner. Rebellion is another central theme, with songs expressing the desire for freedom and the rejection of social norms. This theme is often linked to a defiant attitude and non-conformity, characteristic of the style and image of glam metal artists. 80s Glam Metal in Fashion & MoviesIn fashion, glam metal popularizes flamboyant clothing with animal prints, glitter, and bright colors: tight pants, studded leather jackets, and bandanas, fingerless gloves, and high boots. Voluminous hairstyles, often created with lots of hairspray and dye, bold makeup—colored eyeshadow, bright lipstick, and pronounced eyeliner, common among both men and women—become symbols of glam metal. To get an idea of the cultural impact of glam metal, one should (re)watch “The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years” (1988), a documentary exploring the heavy metal and glam metal scene in Los Angeles. Throughout the 90s, glam metal remains present in several films: Detroit Rock City (1999), where a group of teenagers tries to see their favorite band, KISS; Wayne’s World (1992); and Airheads (1994), where a rock band tries to become famous like Mötley Crüe and White Zombie. |
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