The Best '80s Hair Metal Bands, Ranked By Glam Fans
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The 1980s were a time of excess, flamboyance, and unforgettable music, especially in the realm of glam rock and hair metal. Defined by their big hair, flashy outfits, and electrifying performances, these bands dominated the airwaves and MTV alike. With anthems that ranged from hard-hitting rockers to power ballads that tugged at heartstrings, the era produced some of the most iconic acts in rock history. But with so many legendary bands vying for supremacy during this golden age of glam metal, one question remains: Who is the best hair metal band of them all?
Among the titans of this genre are Guns N' Roses, RATT, and Poison - each bringing their unique flair to the scene. Guns N' Roses emerged from Los Angeles with raw energy and gritty edge; their hit "Welcome to the Jungle" became an instant classic that encapsulated urban chaos and raw power. RATT slithered onto the scene with a sleek sound characterized by Stephen Pearcy's raspy vocals and Warren DeMartini's razor-sharp riffs; their breakout song "Round and Round" spun its way into heavy rotation on MTV. On a different note (yet equally impactful) was Poison from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Known for their infectious party anthems like “Talk Dirty to Me,” they embodied every excess imaginable with sky-high hairdos and neon spandex.
As you delve into this ultimate ranking of '80s hair metal bands, you'll have the chance to relive those glory days when rock ruled supreme - and even better - you get to cast your vote on who truly deserves the crown. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to these glittering legends, enjoy a nostalgic trip through one of rock's most vibrant eras with the greatest hits. So crank up those amps and prepare to headbang as you decide which band still rocks hardest today!
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Def Leppard roared out of Sheffield with a sound as polished and explosive as any pyrotechnics show on the Sunset Strip. These lads had an uncanny knack for crafting arena anthems that could make even the most stoic rock fan pump their fists and sing along. "Pour Some Sugar on Me" became a sugary, sticky staple at every rock party, while "Love Bites" showcased their ability to tug at heartstrings with power ballads that still packed a punch. And let's not forget "Photograph," which immortalized them in the pantheon of glam gods.
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- 1High 'n' Dry311 Votes
- 2Hysteria386 Votes
- 3Pyromania345 Votes
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Emerging from the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles, Guns N’ Roses tore through the glam metal landscape with an unrelenting ferocity. Their seminal hit "Welcome to the Jungle" became an instant classic, encapsulating urban chaos and raw energy in one explosive package. Meanwhile, "Sweet Child O' Mine" showcased their ability to craft timeless melodies amidst all the mayhem. With Axl Rose’s piercing wail and Slash’s iconic guitar solos leading the charge, Guns N’ Roses didn’t just play rock - they lived it on the edge, making every performance feel like a high-stakes adventure.
Do they rock?The Best Slash Guitar Solos Of All TimeSee all- 1Sweet Child o' Mine94 Votes
- 2November Rain95 Votes
- 3Don't Cry51 Votes
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Mötley Crüe stormed out of Los Angeles like a pack of wild, leather-clad marauders, leaving a trail of chaos and unforgettable tunes in their wake. Vince Neil's piercing vocals combined with Nikki Sixx's thunderous bass lines created anthems that defined the era. "Dr. Feelgood" became the ultimate prescription for headbanging euphoria, while "Girls, Girls, Girls" celebrated the band's love for life's more hedonistic pleasures. And who could forget "Kickstart My Heart," an adrenaline-fueled ride that perfectly encapsulated their reckless spirit?
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- 2Dr. Feelgood198 Votes
- 3Too Fast for Love203 Votes
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From New Jersey's industrial heartland came Skid Row, injecting a dose of streetwise grit into glam metal’s polished veneer. Their breakout single "18 and Life" told haunting tales of youthful recklessness set to searing riffs, while "I Remember You" offered a heartfelt ballad that resonated deeply with fans across generations. Sebastian Bach's powerhouse vocals combined with Dave 'Snake' Sabo’s relentless guitar work created an electrifying dynamic that turned each song into an anthem for rebels and dreamers alike - solidifying Skid Row’s place in rock history as purveyors of both intensity and emotion.
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Step into the enchanted world of Cinderella, where gritty blues met hair metal flair under the spellbinding vocals of Tom Keifer. This band conjured up hits like "Nobody's Fool" and "Gypsy Road," casting a spell on fans with their soulful melodies and hard-hitting rhythms. Their music was a tapestry woven with tales of heartbreak and rebellion, all delivered with Keifer's raspy growl that could both soothe and scorch. Cinderella's blend of rugged charm and theatricality made them true princes in the kingdom of rock.
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6Ratt slithered onto the scene from San Diego with a sound as sleek and dangerous as their namesake. Stephen Pearcy’s raspy growl paired with Warren DeMartini’s razor-sharp riffs made for a lethal combination that took glam metal to new heights. "Round and Round" was their breakout hit, spinning its way into heavy rotation on MTV and beyond. "Lay It Down" showcased their knack for infectious hooks wrapped in gritty guitar work, while "Wanted Man" cemented their status as glam rock outlaws.
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Poison burst onto the scene like a glitter bomb of decadence and debauchery straight from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. They embodied every excess imaginable, from sky-high hairdos to neon spandex that seemed painted on. With Bret Michaels leading the charge, they delivered infectious hits like "Talk Dirty to Me" and "Nothin' But a Good Time," songs that were tailor-made for wild nights and unforgettable memories. Their pièce de résistance, however, was "Every Rose Has Its Thorn," a ballad so poignant it made even the hardest partiers pause and reflect.
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Scorpions was Germany's premier export in hard-hitting rock anthems and poignant ballads. With Klaus Meine's distinctive voice leading the charge, they delivered timeless classics such as "Rock You Like a Hurricane" and "Wind of Change." The band's dual guitar attack from Rudolf Schenker and Matthias Jabs created a dynamic soundscape that was both ferocious and melodic. Renowned for their impeccable musicianship and captivating stage presence, Scorpions conquered arenas across continents, leaving an indelible mark on rock history.
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With Van Halen, Eddie Van Halen's revolutionary guitar wizardry met David Lee Roth's high-flying showmanship in an explosive fusion of talent. They rocked the charts with unforgettable tracks like "Jump" and "Panama," combining infectious hooks with jaw-dropping instrumental prowess. Known for their energetic live performances and Roth’s acrobatic stage antics, Van Halen redefined what it meant to be rock stars in the '80s. With their blend of technical brilliance and party-ready vibes, they set arenas ablaze across the globe while leaving an indelible mark on rock history.
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1Eruption163 Votes- 2I'm the One57 Votes
- 3Hot for Teacher106 Votes
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New York's own Twisted Sister stormed the glam battleground with an attitude as fierce as their makeup. Led by the indomitable Dee Snider, they gave us rebellious anthems like "We're Not Gonna Take It," which became a battle hymn for the disenfranchised masses, and "I Wanna Rock," a declaration of allegiance to all things loud and proud. With larger-than-life personas and even bigger hair, Twisted Sister didn't just break the mold - they smashed it to glittery smithereens.
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11Bon Jovi emerged from New Jersey with big dreams and even bigger hooks, quickly becoming one of the most beloved acts in glam history. Jon Bon Jovi's golden locks and Richie Sambora's blistering guitar solos were just part of their magic; their real secret weapon was anthems like "Livin' on a Prayer" that spoke directly to blue-collar hearts everywhere. "You Give Love a Bad Name" captured the scorned lover's angst perfectly, while "Wanted Dead or Alive" turned them into modern-day rock cowboys riding through endless highways of adoration.
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Get ready to slither into rock nirvana with Whitesnake, the band that brought sultry sophistication to every power chord they played. Helmed by the magnetic David Coverdale, Whitesnake unleashed smoldering tracks like "Here I Go Again" and "Is This Love," which became anthems for soul-searching romantics everywhere. Their sound was marked by soaring vocals, searing guitar solos from maestros like John Sykes, and an undeniable sense of grandeur. Whitesnake's intoxicating mix of passion and prowess ensured they left an indelible mark on the glam metal landscape.
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Hailing from the sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles, Quiet Riot roared onto the scene with a sonic assault that demanded attention. Their anthem "Cum On Feel The Noize" became a rallying cry for every glam enthusiast, while "Metal Health (Bang Your Head)" was a chaotic celebration of excess. These guys didn't just play music; they embodied it, turning every stage into their personal playground and every concert into an unforgettable party.
Do they rock?The Best Quiet Riot Albums of All TimeSee all- 1Metal Health156 Votes
- 2Condition Critical130 Votes
- 3QR III97 Votes
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14Get ready to rock 'n' roll all night with Kiss, the larger-than-life legends who turned every concert into a full-blown spectacle. Fronted by Paul Stanley's charismatic vocals and Gene Simmons' fire-breathing bass antics, Kiss gave us unforgettable hits like "Heaven's on Fire" and "Lick It Up." Their iconic face paint and flamboyant costumes made them instantly recognizable icons of glam metal excess. Whether delivering explosive guitar riffs or thunderous drum solos, Kiss created an electrifying atmosphere that left fans craving more long after the final encore.
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- 2Paul Stanley700 Votes
- 3Eric Carr571 Votes
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15Step into the world of Warrant, where infectious hooks and unabashed charisma reigned supreme under the leadership of frontman Jani Lane. Known for irresistible hits like "Cherry Pie" and "Heaven," Warrant captured hearts with their catchy choruses and energetic performances. Their music was a celebration of youthful exuberance mixed with moments of poignant reflection, creating a soundtrack for both wild nights and contemplative days. With their blend of cheeky charm and undeniable talent, Warrant left an indelible mark on the glam metal landscape, proving that sometimes fun can be just as profound as fury.
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16Buckle up for a ride with Tesla, the electrifying ensemble that fused raw power with lyrical depth to create a sound that was both timeless and cutting-edge. Fronted by the dynamic Jeff Keith, Tesla delivered unforgettable tracks like "Love Song" and "Modern Day Cowboy," blending hard-hitting rock with introspective storytelling. Their music defied conventions, combining gritty guitar riffs with melodic sophistication to carve out a niche all their own. With every performance, Tesla proved that true rock 'n' roll is as much about heart as it is about horsepower.
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17Emerging from the heart of the Los Angeles rock scene, Dokken fused technical prowess with melodic finesse to create a sound that was both ferocious and finely tuned. Their breakout hit "Breaking the Chains" resonated like a battle cry for freedom, while "Dream Warriors" became an iconic anthem for horror aficionados and headbangers alike. Fronted by the charismatic Don Dokken and backed by George Lynch's incendiary guitar work, they crafted songs that were as complex as they were catchy, turning every riff into a masterstroke of metal artistry.
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18Prepare to be "Blown Away" by Kix, the explosive quintet that brought a high-octane mix of swagger and sizzle to the '80s rock scene. Led by the charismatic Steve Whiteman, Kix delivered infectious anthems like "Don't Close Your Eyes" and "Cold Blood," igniting stages with their raw energy and rebellious spirit. Their raucous riffs and catchy hooks made them a force to be reckoned with, as they turned every concert into a wild party. With a sound that's equal parts grit and glam, Kix embodied the hedonistic heart of rock 'n' roll.
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From the bustling streets of New York City came White Lion, a band whose blend of heartfelt lyrics and soaring melodies set them apart in the glam metal landscape. With hits like "Wait," which captured the angst and anticipation of young love, and "When The Children Cry," an emotional ballad that tugged at universal heartstrings, White Lion proved they could do more than just rock - they could touch souls. Led by Mike Tramp’s evocative vocals and Vito Bratta’s virtuosic guitar skills, their music shimmered with sincerity amidst all the glitter.
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Slaughter was a band that epitomized the feel-good vibe and relentless spirit of late '80s rock. Hailing from Las Vegas, they burst onto the scene with Mark Slaughter's soaring vocals and Dana Strum's thundering bass lines. Their chart-topping hits like "Up All Night" and "Fly to the Angels" combined catchy hooks with anthemic choruses that resonated with fans worldwide. Known for their electrifying live shows and boundless enthusiasm, Slaughter quickly became a staple on the glam metal circuit, winning hearts with every power chord.
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Faster Pussycat clawed their way out of Hollywood's underbelly with a raw edge that set them apart from their more polished peers. Taime Downe’s gravelly voice delivered tales of urban decay and nocturnal escapades with unapologetic swagger. Their anthem "Bathroom Wall" painted vivid scenes of rock 'n' roll debauchery, while "House of Pain" revealed a surprisingly tender side beneath the rough exterior. With tracks like “Babylon,” they captured the essence of streetwise glamour in every snarling note and sneering lyric.
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Dive into the gritty glamour of L.A. Guns, where raw edge meets melodic finesse in a perfect storm of rock 'n' roll rebellion. Originating from Los Angeles' vibrant music scene, this band brought us unforgettable tracks like "The Ballad of Jayne" and "Rip and Tear." Phil Lewis' charismatic vocals paired seamlessly with Tracii Guns' blistering guitar riffs to create a sound that was both powerful and infectious. Known for their no-holds-barred performances and streetwise swagger, L.A. Guns captured the essence of Sunset Strip decadence while carving out their own unique legacy in glam metal lore.
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23Extreme
Get ready to be swept off your feet by Extreme, the band that masterfully balanced blistering guitar solos with tender ballads in an era of excess. Led by the powerhouse duo of Gary Cherone's soaring vocals and Nuno Bettencourt's unparalleled fretwork, Extreme gifted fans with hits like the heartfelt "More Than Words" and the spirited "Hole Hearted." Their ability to seamlessly blend rock bravado with melodic elegance set them apart from their peers. Whether delivering high-octane anthems or soulful serenades, Extreme captivated audiences and showcased a rare musical versatility.
Genres (Music): Hard rock, funk metal, glam metal
Albums: Extreme, Extreme II: Pornograffitti, III Sides to Every Story, Waiting for the Punchline, Saudades de Rock, Six
Career Began: Boston, MassachusettsDo they rock?
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Prepare yourself for the theatrical shock-rock extravaganza of Alice Cooper, where macabre meets melody in an unforgettable spectacle. Hailing from Detroit, Vincent Furnier - better known as Alice Cooper - led his band with a flair for the dramatic on hits like "Poison" and "School's Out." Renowned for their elaborate stage shows featuring guillotines, snakes, and other dark theatrics, Alice Cooper redefined what it meant to put on a rock concert. With his raspy voice and sinister persona, he captivated audiences worldwide while pushing the boundaries of performance art in rock music.
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25Prepare to be captivated by the theatrical spectacle of W.A.S.P., a band that brought a dark edge and shock-rock flair to the glam metal scene. Led by the enigmatic Blackie Lawless, W.A.S.P. delivered anthems like "I Wanna Be Somebody" and "Wild Child," blending gritty vocals with blistering guitar solos. Their stage shows were legendary, featuring pyrotechnics, blood-spitting, and elaborate props that pushed the boundaries of rock performance. With their rebellious spirit and raw power, W.A.S.P. carved out a niche all their own, leaving audiences both thrilled and scandalized.
Genres (Music): Heavy metal, glam metal, shock rock
Albums: W.A.S.P., The Last Command, Inside the Electric Circus, The Headless Children, The Crimson Idol, Still Not Black Enough, Kill F*ck Die, Helldorado
Career Began: Los Angeles, CaliforniaDo they rock?
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With a kaleidoscope of psychedelic influences and power-pop sensibilities, Enuff Z'Nuff burst onto the scene with an irresistible blend of hooks and harmonies. Hailing from Chicago, this band crafted tunes like "Fly High Michelle," a poignant anthem that soared through the airwaves, and "New Thing," a glittering gem that captured the exuberance of youth. Frontman Donnie Vie's emotive vocals paired with Chip Z'Nuff's driving bass lines created a sonic alchemy that was as infectious as it was innovative, turning every track into a radiant explosion of glam brilliance.
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27Glam fans were swept off their feet by Winger, the band that masterfully combined technical prowess with melodic rock charm. Originating from New York City, Kip Winger's velvety vocals and Reb Beach's intricate guitar work created a dynamic duo on hits like "Seventeen" and "Headed for a Heartbreak." Known for their polished musicianship and sophisticated songwriting, Winger brought a touch of class to the glam metal scene. Their live shows were a testament to their talent, blending high energy with flawless execution that left audiences in awe.
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28Love/Hate
Emerging from Hollywood's neon-lit underbelly, Love/Hate brought a raw edge to the glam scene that set them apart from their contemporaries. Their hit "Blackout in the Red Room" was an electrifying ode to hedonism that resonated deeply with fans who lived for late-night escapades. Meanwhile, "Why Do You Think They Call It Dope?" showcased their knack for blending gritty realism with infectious hooks. Love/Hate didn’t just flirt with danger - they embraced it fully, giving glam rock a much-needed shot of adrenaline.
Genres (Music): Glam metal, hard rock
Albums: Blackout in the Red Room, Wasted in America, Let's Rumble, I'm Not Happy, Livin' Off Layla, Let's Eat, Before the Blackout, Hell, CA
Career Began: Los Angeles, CaliforniaDo they rock?
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29Step into the righteous realm of Stryper, where soaring harmonies meet heavy riffs in a heavenly blend of Christian metal. Emerging from Orange County, California, Michael Sweet's powerful vocals paired seamlessly with Oz Fox's blazing guitar solos on tracks like "To Hell with the Devil" and "Honestly." Known for their bold black-and-yellow stage outfits and positive messages, Stryper stood out in the glam metal scene not just for their faith-based lyrics but also for their exceptional musicianship. Their concerts were uplifting experiences that combined spiritual fervor with rock 'n' roll intensity.
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Straight outta Finland but with hearts firmly planted in Sunset Strip debauchery, Hanoi Rocks brought a punk-infused edge to glam rock that was both raw and riveting. Their explosive track "Tragedy" showcased their knack for blending infectious hooks with gritty storytelling, while "Up Around The Bend" offered a rollicking ride through uncharted musical territories. Michael Monroe's magnetic stage presence coupled with Andy McCoy's rebellious riffs made every performance feel like an exhilarating dive into rock 'n' roll chaos - proving that even from Helsinki to Hollywood, glamour knows no bounds.
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