The Story Of: Ratt – The Glam Metal Titans of the Sunset Strip

During the 1980s glam metal movement Ratt became a band that defined the style, exuding flamboyance, extravagance and catchy songs that defined the genre. Combining powerful riffs, catchy tunes and an iconic image Ratt cemented their reputation as one of the most important bands to come out of Los Angeles’ renowned Sunset Strip. Hit songs like “Lay It Down” and “Round and Round” turned become decade-defining hits, propelling the band to multi-platinum success and establishing them as one of the pioneers of the glam metal style.

The Early Days: From Mickey Ratt to Ratt

Ratt origins trace back to 1976 when guitarist Stephen Pearcy formed a band called Mickey Ratt in San Diego, California. Pearcy inspired by the likes of Alice Cooper, Aerosmith and the burgeoning hard rock scene, envisioned a band that combined catchy, radio-friendly melodies with a harder, edgier sound. Mickey Ratt went through numerous lineup changes in its early years with Pearcy being the only constant member.

In 1981 Pearcy relocated to Los Angeles, where the glam metal scene was beginning to flourish. It was there that Mickey Ratt shortened its name to simply Ratt marking the start of the band rise. The band classic lineup began to take shape as guitarist Warren DeMartini, drummer Bobby Blotzer, bassist Juan Croucier and rhythm guitarist Robbin Crosby joined forces with Pearcy. This lineup would become synonymous with Ratt’s most successful years.

Breaking Through: The EP and Out of the Cellar

The band’s independent 1983 self-titled EP marked a significant turning point. With their upbeat live shows and catchy glam metal style, they soon developed a dedicated fan base on the Sunset Strip, which the EP helped establish. Ratt’s commercial breakthrough began when Atlantic Records signed him after the EP attracted their notice.

Ratt’s most popular and significant album was their first full-length release, “Out of the Cellar” which came out in 1984. Mixing sophisticated production standards that were becoming typical of the glam metal style with high-energy rock songs “Out of the Cellar” was a phenomenon. The album went triple platinum and peaked at number seven on the Billboard 200 making it as commercial hit.

The lead single “Round and Round” became Ratt’s signature song and remains one of the most iconic tracks of the glam metal era. Ratt became a recognisable name because to the song’s addictive riff, memorable chorus and extensive MTV airplay. Additional album tracks like “Wanted Man” and “Back for More” demonstrated the band’s skill at fusing pop melodies with intense guitar riffs.

Ratt N’ Roll: Climbing the Ladder of Success

Following the massive success of “Out of the Cellar”, Ratt quickly solidified their place as one of the biggest bands of the 1980s glam metal scene. In 1985, they released their second album “Invasion of Your Privacy”, which continued their winning streak. The album reached number 7 on the Billboard charts and featured hits like “Lay It Down” and “You’re in Love”. With Warren DeMartini blistering guitar solos and Stephen Pearcy signature vocals Ratt had become synonymous with the glam metal sound of the mid-80s.

Their popularity went beyond the confines of the studio. Ratt established himself as a mainstay of the arena rock scene, opening shows for acts like Mötley Crüe, Bon Jovi and Poison. Ratt live shows were a display of glitz, extravagance and electric intensity that embodied the spirit of the Sunset Strip. They were well-known for their high-octane performances.

The Peak and Decline

By 1986 Ratt was one of the biggest bands in America. Their third album “Dancing Undercover” featured hits like “Dance” and “Body Talk” continuing their successful run. However as the decade wore on cracks began to appear. The pressures of constant touring, creative differences and personal struggles within the band began to take their toll.

In 1988 Ratt released their fourth album “Reach for the Sky” which, while commercially successful, failed to live up to the critical expectations set by their earlier work. Despite producing hits like “Way Cool Jr.” and “I Want a Woman” it became evident that glam metal was starting to lose its grip on the mainstream.

Ratt fifth album “Detonator” (1990), marked a departure from their earlier sound, featuring a more polished production and a heavier, slightly darker tone. Produced by Desmond Child, the album received mixed reviews and didn’t perform as well commercially as their previous efforts. By this time, the glam metal scene was rapidly being overshadowed by the rise of grunge and alternative rock, with bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam dominating the airwaves.

Internal Struggles and Tragedy

The early 1990s were a difficult time for Ratt. The band faced internal tensions, particularly between Stephen Pearcy and Robbin Crosby. Crosby struggles with addiction became increasingly public and in 1991 he left the band. Tragically Crosby health continued to deteriorate over the years and he passed away in 2002 from complications related to AIDS. His death marked the end of an era for Ratt and deeply impacted the remaining members.

Following Crosby departure Ratt struggled to maintain the momentum they had built during the 1980s. The music landscape had shifted dramatically and the once-dominant glam metal scene was now out of favor. Ratt disbanded in 1992, with the members pursuing various solo projects.

Reunions and the Enduring Legacy

Despite the band breakup, Ratt music remained a staple of classic rock and metal radio throughout the 1990s and beyond. Their albums particularly “Out of the Cellar“ and “Invasion of Your Privacy”, are considered essential listening for fans of glam metal and “Round and Round” remains a timeless anthem of the genre.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, various reunions and lineup changes brought Ratt back to the stage, though without the same level of commercial success as before. Stephen Pearcy, Warren DeMartini and Bobby Blotzer would come together intermittently for tours, keeping the Ratt name alive for nostalgic fans and a new generation discovering glam metal.

In 2010 Ratt released Infestation, their first studio album in over a decade. The album was a return to their classic sound, drawing praise from fans and critics alike. Despite lineup changes and legal disputes over the band’s name, Ratt has continued to tour and perform, keeping the spirit of “Ratt N’ Roll” alive.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Ratt

It is impossible to overestimate Ratt effect on the glam metal movement. They contributed to defining the sound and image of 1980s metal with groups like Mötley Crüe and Poison, releasing songs that were both radio-friendly and jam-packed with powerful riffs. They stood out from the crowd thanks to their unique blend of showy, good-time attitudes and true musical ability and their multi-platinum success sealed their status as one of the most significant bands of the day.

With hits like “Lay It Down”, “Round and Round” and “Wanted Man” Ratt encapsulated the hedonistic, rebellious vibe of the 1980s Sunset Strip and their influence endures among music lovers of all ages. Ratt contributions to rock history as one of the founding bands of the glam metal style, are ageless and demonstrate that music transcends a world of excess and glamour.

Ratt N’ Roll forever!

Discography

Out of the Cellar (1984)
Invasion of Your Privacy (1985)
Dancing Undercover (1986)
Reach for the Sky (1988)
Detonator (1990)
Ratt (1999)
Infestation (2010)

Members

Classic line-up

Stephen Pearcy – lead vocals
Warren DeMartini – guitar, backing vocals
Robbin Crosby – guitar, backing vocals
Juan Croucier – bass, backing vocals
Bobby Blotzer – drums, percussion