11 Underrated Hair Metal Songs: Forgotten Hits

Hey there, rock enthusiasts! It’s TBone here, your go-to DJ and owner of Level Tunes. I’ve been spinning tracks and diving deep into the world of music for years, and there’s one genre that I believe doesn’t get enough love: hair metal.

This electrifying style defined a generation with its wild hair, killer riffs, and unapologetic energy. Today, I want to shine a spotlight on the underrated gems of this genre.

I’ve handpicked 11 hair metal songs that are absolute bangers but somehow slipped under the radar.

Why?

Because they deserve a moment in the limelight, and you deserve to rock out to some of the best tunes that have been overshadowed by mainstream hits. Let’s get ready to crank up the volume and dive into a world of soaring solos and unforgettable choruses!

Here are the underrated hair metal songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Hair Metal Songs

Underrated hair metal songs in a list format:

1. “Heartbreak Boulevard” by Shotgun Messiah (Second Coming, 1991, Relativity Records)

From the Swedish band Shotgun Messiah, “Heartbreak Boulevard” is a track that captures the true essence of hair metal. Featured on their 1991 album “Second Coming” under Relativity Records, this song showcases a perfect blend of gritty vocals by Tim Skold and scorching guitar solos from Harry K. Cody. I chose this song for its raw energy and the way it encapsulates the transition era of hair metal, combining traditional elements with a fresh, edgier sound. It’s a true hidden gem that didn’t get its due spotlight.

2. “Gypsy Road” by Cinderella (Long Cold Winter, 1988, Mercury Records)

Cinderella’s “Gypsy Road,” off their 1988 album “Long Cold Winter” under Mercury Records, is a testament to the band’s versatility. Moving away from their debut album’s glam sound, this track offers a more bluesy, hard rock vibe. Tom Keifer’s raspy vocals and the infectious riff make this song a stand-out track. I included “Gypsy Road” because it represents the evolving sound of hair metal in the late ’80s and showcases Cinderella’s growth as musicians.

3. “Down n’ Dirty” by L.A. Guns (Cocked & Loaded, 1989, Vertigo Records)

L.A. Guns’ “Down n’ Dirty” from their 1989 album “Cocked & Loaded” on Vertigo Records is a quintessential hair metal anthem. The band, featuring Phil Lewis’s distinct vocals and Tracii Guns’s searing guitar work, delivers a high-energy, in-your-face track. I love this song for its unapologetic attitude and raw sound, a hallmark of L.A. Guns, and a key reason why this song deserves more recognition.

4. “Smooth Up In Ya” by BulletBoys (BulletBoys, 1988, Warner Bros. Records)

“Smooth Up In Ya” by BulletBoys, from their self-titled 1988 debut album on Warner Bros. Records, is a prime example of hair metal’s flamboyant style. Frontman Marq Torien’s dynamic vocals combined with Mick Sweda’s fiery guitar riffs create a high-octane experience. This track is chosen for its embodiment of the hair metal ethos – it’s bold, brash, and irresistibly catchy.

5. “Someone Like You” by Bang Tango (Psycho Cafe, 1989, MCA Records)

Bang Tango’s “Someone Like You,” off their 1989 album “Psycho Cafe” released by MCA Records, stands out with its fusion of funk and hard rock elements. Joe Leste’s unique vocal style and the groove-laden guitar work set this track apart. I picked this song because it showcases the genre’s ability to experiment and push boundaries, making it a must-listen for any hair metal fan.

6. “Edge of a Broken Heart” by Vixen (Vixen, 1988, EMI Records)

Featured on their 1988 self-titled debut album under EMI Records, Vixen’s “Edge of a Broken Heart” is a powerful anthem delivered by an all-female band in a male-dominated genre. Janet Gardner’s vocals and Jan Kuehnemund’s lead guitar bring a unique dynamic to this track. It’s included in this list for its significance in demonstrating the versatility and strength of female musicians in hair metal.

7. “Rip and Tear” by L.A. Guns (Cocked & Loaded, 1989, Vertigo Records)

Another L.A. Guns masterpiece, “Rip and Tear,” from the same 1989 album “Cocked & Loaded,” is a high-energy track that embodies the essence of the hair metal scene. The song’s aggressive riffs and Phil Lewis’s powerful vocals make it an unforgettable tune. It’s chosen for its quintessential hair metal sound and the way it captures the spirit of the era.

8. “Turn Up The Radio” by Autograph (Sign In Please, 1984, RCA Records)

“Turn Up The Radio” by Autograph, from their 1984 album “Sign In Please” on RCA Records, is a classic anthem that screams hair metal. With Steve Plunkett’s catchy chorus and Steve Lynch’s innovative guitar techniques, this song is a standout. This track is on the list because it epitomizes the feel-good, party vibe of the genre, and its guitar solo is nothing short of iconic.

9. “Kiss Me Deadly” by Lita Ford (Lita, 1988, RCA Records)

Lita Ford’s “Kiss Me Deadly,” from her 1988 album “Lita” under RCA Records, is a rebellious and empowering track. Ford’s powerful vocals and hard-hitting guitar riffs create an anthem for the ages. This song is chosen for its representation of female empowerment in a genre often dominated by male voices, and for its sheer rock ‘n’ roll energy.

10. “Heaven’s On Fire” by KISS (Animalize, 1984, Mercury Records)

From KISS’s 1984 album “Animalize” released by Mercury Records, “Heaven’s On Fire” is a fiery and catchy tune. Paul Stanley’s dynamic vocal range and the band’s signature sound make this song a standout. It’s chosen for its infectious chorus and the way it captures KISS’s ability to evolve with the hair metal era, while still maintaining their unique identity.

11. “Naughty Naughty” by Danger Danger (Danger Danger, 1989, Epic Records)

“Naughty Naughty” by Danger Danger, from their 1989 self-titled debut album on Epic Records, is a perfect blend of catchy hooks and cheeky lyrics. Ted Poley’s vocals and Andy Timmons’s guitar work create a fun, energetic track. This song is included for its embodiment of the playful, high-energy spirit that makes hair metal so enjoyable and memorable.

Fun Facts: Underrated Hair Metal Songs

Fun Facts about “Heartbreak Boulevard” by Shotgun Messiah

• Swedish Roots: Despite being a staple in the American hair metal scene, Shotgun Messiah actually originated in Sweden, bringing a unique European flair to their music.
• Change of Style: The band significantly changed their style after their debut album, moving from glam metal to a more industrial and heavy metal sound in later years, a transition evident in “Heartbreak Boulevard.”

Fun Facts about “Gypsy Road” by Cinderella

• Music Video: The music video for “Gypsy Road” was shot during Cinderella’s tour with Bon Jovi, showcasing the band’s dynamic stage presence and the high-energy performances that defined their career.
• Blues Influence: This song marked a notable shift towards a bluesier sound for Cinderella, a change from their earlier glam metal style, demonstrating the band’s versatility and musical evolution.

Fun Facts about “Down n’ Dirty” by L.A. Guns

• Band Lineup Changes: L.A. Guns is known for its frequent lineup changes, with “Down n’ Dirty” being recorded during one of the band’s more stable periods, featuring Phil Lewis on vocals, a key component of their classic sound.
• Influential Sound: The song’s gritty and raw sound has been cited as an influence for many hard rock bands that emerged in the early 90s, showcasing L.A. Guns’ impact on the genre.

Fun Facts about “Smooth Up In Ya” by BulletBoys

• Vocal Comparisons: BulletBoys’ lead singer Marq Torien was often compared to David Lee Roth due to his vocal style and stage antics, which is particularly evident in the high-energy performance of “Smooth Up In Ya.”
• Chart Success: Despite being from their debut album, “Smooth Up In Ya” became one of BulletBoys’ most successful singles, showcasing their immediate impact on the hair metal scene.

Fun Facts about “Someone Like You” by Bang Tango

• Genre Fusion: Bang Tango was known for blending funk elements into their music, a style that’s distinctively present in “Someone Like You,” setting them apart from many of their hair metal contemporaries.
• Cult Following: While never achieving massive mainstream success, Bang Tango, and particularly “Someone Like You,” have garnered a cult following, with fans praising the band’s unique sound and energy.

Fun Facts about “Edge of a Broken Heart” by Vixen

• All-Female Lineup: Vixen was one of the few all-female bands in the male-dominated hair metal genre, and “Edge of a Broken Heart” showcased their ability to rock just as hard as their male counterparts.
• Songwriting Credits: The song was co-written by Richard Marx and Fee Waybill of The Tubes, adding a pop sensibility to Vixen’s hard rock sound.

Fun Facts about “Turn Up The Radio” by Autograph

• Guitar Innovation: Guitarist Steve Lynch was known for his two-handed tapping technique, which is prominently featured in the solo of “Turn Up The Radio,” making it a standout piece of guitar work in the genre.
• Commercial Success: This song became Autograph’s most recognizable hit, receiving significant radio play and helping to catapult the band into the spotlight during the mid-80s.

Fun Facts about “Kiss Me Deadly” by Lita Ford

• Solo Success: After her time with the all-female rock band The Runaways, Lita Ford’s “Kiss Me Deadly” became one of her most successful solo hits, establishing her as a significant figure in the rock world.
• Iconic Status: The song has since become an iconic track of the era, often covered by other artists and featured in various media, showcasing its lasting influence.

Fun Facts about “Heaven’s On Fire” by KISS

• Music Video Popularity: The music video for “Heaven’s On Fire” was a staple on MTV, helping to maintain KISS’s popularity during the 80s despite changes in the musical landscape.
• Band’s Evolution: This track represented KISS’s successful adaptation to the hair metal era, blending their classic rock style with the glam metal sound of the 80s.

Fun Facts about “Naughty Naughty” by Danger Danger

• Catchy Choruses: Known for their catchy choruses and upbeat songs, “Naughty Naughty” became a fan favorite at Danger Danger’s live shows, often used as a set closer to energize the crowd.
• Debut Hit: This track was one of the singles from Danger Danger’s debut album, helping to establish the band as a notable name in the late 80s hair metal scene.

And there you have it, rockers! A dive into some of the most underrated yet electrifying hair metal songs out there. These tracks are more than just music; they’re a wild ride through an unforgettable era. Turn up the volume, let your hair down, and let the good times roll!

Thanks for reading.

TBone