Glam Metal Songs: The Ultimate Top 40 Hits
When glam metal burst onto the music scene, it faced harsh criticism from skeptics who deemed it superficial and excessively focused on sexuality. However, despite its undeniable emphasis on libido, the genre also showcased clever songwriting and impressive musical talent that shines through in our curated list of the Top 40 Glam Metal Songs. This genre is not merely about its flamboyant aesthetic; it also encapsulates a rich tapestry of musical creativity and emotional depth that deserves recognition.
Since the dawn of rock music, the genre has served as a powerful voice against oppression, providing an outlet for youthful anger and creating a welcoming space for those on the fringes of society. Additionally, it has celebrated indulgence in vices like sex and drugs. The infectious, hedonistic sound that originated from the Sunset Strip in the early ’80s became a dominant force throughout the decade, managing to retain its core values while amplifying the theatricality and absurdity to new heights. If it’s not broken, why change it?
For our selection, we made the notable decision to omit two of the most influential rock bands of the ’80s — Van Halen and Guns N’ Roses. Although both groups were closely aligned with the glam metal movement, particularly Van Halen, they are more deeply rooted in the hard rock traditions of the ’70s and do not strictly adhere to the glam metal blueprint we are celebrating here.
With these clarifications, dive into our selection of the Top 40 Glam Metal Songs and rediscover the iconic tracks that defined an era.
40. BulletBoys, “Smooth Up in Ya”
From: Bulletboys (1988)
The Bulletboys emerged towards the end of the glam metal wave with their self-titled debut album in 1988, which marked a significant moment in their careers by grazing the Top 40 and achieving gold status. Their standout track, “Smooth Up in Ya,” reached No. 71 on the Billboard Hot 100, driven by its powerful groove and the robust production of Ted Templeman. Imagine a scenario where Billy Squier had consumed a handful of energizing pills before crafting “The Stroke,” and you’ll come close to capturing the song’s essence.
39. Ratt, “You’re in Love”
From: Invasion of Your Privacy (1985)
The formula for Ratt‘s music is straightforward: combine intense guitar riffs with raw passion for an unforgettable sound. “You’re in Love” exemplifies this formula, featuring a gritty riff and a blazing solo that showcases some of Warren DeMartini‘s best guitar work. The track serves as a cautionary tale, as described by Stephen Pearcy, who referred to it as Ratt’s “danger zone love scenario.” While the lyrics may be somewhat cryptic, Pearcy’s vocal performance is undeniably compelling.
38. L.A. Guns, “Never Enough”
From: Cocked & Loaded (1989)
L.A. Guns carved out a distinctive identity within the glam metal scene, exuding a tough, streetwise aura thanks to Tracii Guns‘ razor-sharp guitar riffs and Phil Lewis‘ sultry, edgy vocals. “Never Enough” blends their gritty punk-inspired sound with an uplifting, harmony-driven chorus that likely left Poison feeling a touch envious for not having penned it first. This track brilliantly showcases their ability to balance hard-hitting rock with catchy hooks.
37. Alice Cooper, “Poison”
From: Trash (1989)
Alice Cooper faced a challenging decade marked by struggles with alcohol, leading to a series of unremarkable albums. However, his fortunes changed with the release of 1989’s Trash, which teamed him with seasoned songwriter and producer Desmond Child. The lead single, “Poison,” encapsulated a slick, pop-metal sound characterized by moody guitar riffs and anthemic choruses, propelling the song to No. 7 on the charts and revitalizing Cooper’s career with one of his most significant hits.
36. Twisted Sister, “I Wanna Rock”
From: Stay Hungry (1984)
Twisted Sister skyrocketed to fame with their third studio album, Stay Hungry, which achieved triple platinum status, fueled by breakout hits like “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “I Wanna Rock.” While the former is undeniably an anthem with its sing-along quality, the latter boasts exceptional construction. The song features a hard-hitting riff and Dee Snider‘s passionate vocals that demand attention. The infectious call-and-response chorus instantly engages listeners, making participation not just encouraged but essential.
35. Autograph, “Turn Up the Radio”
From: Sign In Please (1984)
The members of Autograph were seasoned musicians in their late 20s and early 30s when they released their debut album, Sign In Please, having previously opened for Van Halen during their 1984 tour. This experience lent the album a polished professionalism that set it apart from many of their younger contemporaries on the Sunset Strip. Steve Lynch’s electrifying guitar solo in “Turn Up the Radio” earned the title of “Guitar Solo of the Year” from Guitar Player in 1985, and the song’s Top 30 success is a testament to the band’s talent, despite their initial doubts about its potential.
34. The Cult, “Fire Woman”
From: Sonic Temple (1989)
While The Cult may not fit neatly into the glam metal category, they experimented with the genre’s sound and aesthetic in their 1989 album, Sonic Temple, which became their only Top 10 album in the U.S. The lead single “Fire Woman” harnesses Billy Duffy‘s fiery guitar riffs and Ian Astbury‘s compelling vocals reminiscent of Jim Morrison, all enhanced by Bob Rock‘s powerful production. This collaboration helped elevate The Cult’s sound to a grand, arena-ready level, showcasing their potential as hard rock icons.
33. Warrant, “Down Boys”
From: Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich (1989)
Warrant may not have been any more refined than their Sunset Strip peers, but their debut album, particularly the lead single “Down Boys,” radiated a youthful exuberance that made them feel approachable, like the rare glam metal band you could introduce to your mother. The song features punchy riffs and a captivating vocal performance by Jani Lane, whose soaring notes seem effortless. The track may be suggestive, but it carries an underlying charm that resonates with listeners.
32. Aerosmith, “Dude (Looks Like a Lady)”
From: Permanent Vacation (1987)
Some die-hard Aerosmith fans were initially resistant to the band’s pop-oriented transformation, yet the commercial success of 1987’s Permanent Vacation is undeniable, bolstered by clever and catchy singles like “Dude (Looks Like a Lady).” What began as a playful jab at Vince Neil evolved into a catchy anthem about unexpected experiences backstage with a stripper. Co-writer Desmond Child has described the song as having deeper social commentary, encapsulated in the line, “Never judge a book by its cover or who you’re going to love by your lover,” which offers a profound perspective.
31. Lita Ford, “Kiss Me Deadly”
From: Lita (1988)
Lita Ford had already established her rock credentials as a member of The Runaways in the ’70s, but she achieved her first Top 20 solo hit with “Kiss Me Deadly.” Penned by former Billy Idol bassist Mick Smiley, the song features a relentless backbeat reminiscent of “Rebel Yell” and is laden with catchy guitar and keyboard hooks. Ford’s vocals oscillate between a sugary croon and a fierce snarl; she embodies the rebellious spirit of rock, ready to down a beer and challenge anyone who crosses her.
30. Winger, “Seventeen”
From: Winger (1988)
While not the most renowned rock song featuring a 17-year-old girl — that title likely belongs to The Beatles‘ “I Saw Her Standing There” — Winger’s “Seventeen” is often viewed as overtly creepy. Kip Winger‘s lyrics tread a fine line of controversy, and the song would likely face backlash today. However, it’s paired with a powerful prog-metal rhythm and Reb Beach‘s impressive guitar work, making it a notable track of the era.
29. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, “I Hate Myself for Loving You”
From: Up Your Alley (1988)
28. White Lion, “Wait”
From: Pride (1987)
White Lion had the potential to become just another group of wannabe Van Halen imitators, but lead singer Mike Tramp knew how to captivate an audience. However, it was guitarist Vito Bratta who elevated their sophomore album, Pride, to multi-platinum status, thanks to his blistering guitar riffs and breathtaking solos. “Wait” artfully balances its catchy power-ballad choruses with a sweeping, symphonic guitar solo showcasing some of the best tapping techniques around. Even Zakk Wylde acknowledged Bratta as “the only guitarist I’ve heard who sounds cool doing taps.”
27. Bon Jovi, “You Give Love a Bad Name”
From: Slippery When Wet (1986)
With their third studio album, Bon Jovi transitioned from writing simple songs to crafting anthems that resonated with generations. The lead single, “You Give Love a Bad Name,” was their first chart-topping hit, striking the perfect balance of catchy melodies, relatable themes, and a touch of anger. This collaboration with Desmond Child kicks off with an a cappella chorus followed by an unforgettable guitar riff, solidifying the band’s place as superstars.
26. Cinderella, “Gypsy Road”
From: Long Cold Winter (1988)
On their second album, Long Cold Winter, Cinderella wisely moved away from the glam metal clichés of their debut, Night Songs, opting for a more bluesy hard rock sound reminiscent of Aerosmith and The Rolling Stones. “Gypsy Road” stands out as a powerful anthem built around a memorable riff and Tom Keifer‘s gritty, expressive vocals. This track captures the essence of freedom and adventure, making it a timeless classic.
25. Bon Jovi, “Wanted Dead or Alive”
From: Slippery When Wet
One of the key tracks in the “rock stars as cowboys” subgenre, “Wanted Dead or Alive” showcased Bon Jovi‘s ability to craft a compelling narrative while solidifying their mythos as resilient rock ‘n’ roll outlaws. The song’s acoustic guitar performance by Richie Sambora is nothing short of legendary, while the vocal harmony between Sambora and frontman Jon Bon Jovi became a hallmark of their music, paving the way for their iconic MTV Unplugged performance in 1989.
24. Motley Crue, “Girls, Girls, Girls”
From: Girls, Girls, Girls (1987)
Following the polished pop-metal approach of 1985’s Theatre of Pain, Motley Crue shifted gears by embracing a more blues-rock sound inspired by Aerosmith. The title track, “Girls, Girls, Girls,” stands as one of the band’s defining songs, featuring gritty riffs and a sing-along chorus, enriched by references to various adult entertainment venues, making it a quintessential anthem for strip clubs, only rivaled by Def Leppard‘s “Pour Some Sugar on Me.”
23. The Cult, “Love Removal Machine”
From: Electric (1987)
The Cult’s evolution from goth-punk mystics to dominant rock icons commenced with their 1987 release, Electric, which embraced a hard rock sound bolstered by Rick Rubin‘s minimalist production. This transformation birthed “Love Removal Machine,” a high-energy rocker reminiscent of AC/DC that features a memorable music video showcasing Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy in front of towering Marshall stacks. While not pure glam metal, it resonates with the genre’s spirit and energy.
22. W.A.S.P., “I Wanna Be Somebody”
From: W.A.S.P. (1984)
W.A.S.P. emerged from the Sunset Strip in the early glam metal era, though their gory shock-rock style defies the glamorous label. Nevertheless, “I Wanna Be Somebody,” the lead single from their self-titled debut, is an explosive declaration of intent. Blackie Lawless passionately channels his desire for stardom through a relentless rhythm and heavy riffs, making the track a powerful anthem of aspiration that resonates with countless fans.
21. Poison, “Talk Dirty to Me”
From: Look What the Cat Dragged In (1986)
Although Poison wasn’t the first glam metal band, they are often regarded as the genre’s quintessential representatives. Their debut album, Look What the Cat Dragged In, with its androgynous cover art and a plethora of playful, hyper-sexual anthems, became synonymous with glam metal. The track “Talk Dirty to Me,” characterized by its catchy riff and lyrics about teenage lust, perfectly embodies the exuberance of this era, and it rightfully became their first Top 10 hit. Their commitment to this style is evident in their energetic performances and music videos that invite everyone to join in the fun.
20. Warrant, “Cherry Pie”
From: Cherry Pie (1990)
Jani Lane expressed deep regret over writing “Cherry Pie,” stating he could kick himself for penning it so quickly on a pizza box to meet Columbia Records’ demand for a catchy single similar to Aerosmith‘s “Love in an Elevator.” Despite his misgivings, “Cherry Pie” achieved monumental success, becoming a significant hit that encapsulates the band’s essence. While Lane’s thoughts on the song are complex, it undeniably served as an introduction to Warrant’s more thoughtful work for those willing to dig deeper.
19. Scorpions, “Rock You Like a Hurricane”
From: Love at First Sting (1984)
After years of persistence, Scorpions became overnight sensations with “Rock You Like a Hurricane,” a track that perfectly showcases their evolution as a band. Their album, Love at First Sting, reflects the culmination of years of hard work and refinement, resulting in a sound that resonates on a grand scale. The song features a hard-hitting riff and massive hooks, highlighting the band’s technical prowess and solidifying their place in rock history.
18. Ratt, “Lay It Down”
From: Invasion of Your Privacy
While Ratt‘s music is often characterized by its straightforward lustful themes, they have consistently produced great songs. “Lay It Down” exemplifies this, showcasing a sophisticated composition for glam metal, featuring a nimble main riff, a brilliant guitar solo, and dynamic contrasts between soft and loud sections that echo the early days of grunge. Rather than serving as a mere vehicle for adolescent angst, this track serves as a bold invitation for romantic encounters.
17. Skid Row, “18 and Life”
From: Skid Row (1989)
Skid Row distinguished themselves from their glam metal contemporaries by delivering a harder edge, thanks to the powerful guitar work of Dave “The Snake” Sabo and Scotti Hill, paired with Sebastian Bach‘s soaring, multi-octave vocals. These elements elevate “18 and Life” from a standard power ballad to an epic narrative exploring themes of crime and consequence. Bach’s impressive vocal runs enhance the story of the protagonist, Ricky, transforming him into a multifaceted character and adding depth to the song.
16. Europe, “The Final Countdown”
From: The Final Countdown (1986)
Swedish rock band Europe completed their transition from heavy progressive rock to pop-metal with the release of their third album, The Final Countdown, which produced not only their biggest hit but also emerged as an anthem of the glam metal era. The instantly recognizable keyboard riff, which could easily be considered cheesy, somehow stands the test of time and continues to energize audiences today. The song’s driving tempo and emotive verses build up to the iconic chorus, ensuring Europe’s legacy in both glam metal and in sports arenas worldwide.
15. Skid Row, “Youth Gone Wild”
From: Skid Row
To counter any perceptions of softness stemming from “18 and Life” and “I Remember You,” Skid Row made their entrance with the hard-hitting anthem “Youth Gone Wild.” This track embodies the rebellious spirit of youth, featuring powerful riffs and a chorus designed for stadium sing-alongs, driven by Bach’s electrifying vocals. The lyrics deliver some of the most absurd dialogue ever in a rock song, adding a layer of humor and authenticity to the experience, such as the line, “Get a three-piece Wall Street smile and son, you’ll look just like me.“
14. David Lee Roth, “Yankee Rose”
From: Eat ‘Em and Smile (1986)
While Van Halen may not be featured on this list, their original frontman, David Lee Roth, certainly is. Roth was determined to outshine his former bandmates with his solo work. He followed up his debut EP, Crazy From the Heat, with the explosive Eat ‘Em and Smile, filled with catchy pop-metal hooks, dazzling guitar solos, and an abundance of charisma. The opening track, “Yankee Rose,” showcases Roth’s playful call-and-response with guitarist Steve Vai, where he humor
