A Late Start (1989)

As the 1980s began to close and the influence of grunge started to spread like wildfire, some bands still continued to produce music. Late to the world of 80s rock, Skid Row released their self-titled debut in early-1989. I have found out that many people do not really know who Skid Row is, or have only heard "I Remember You." I first discovered the uncommon band when I heard them on the radio years ago. Looking up their discography, I realized how late to the game they were. However, that does not matter as I went ahead and listened to the entirety of Skid Row anyways.

First of all, this album is a hard rock gem. Some listeners may even categorize it as a heavy metal album. Being one of my favorite albums from the late-1980s, I think almost every track is great. While Skid Row may not been known to many, the album amassed mild success while spawning four singles. The four singles on the album consist of "Youth Gone Wild," "Piece of Me," and the two most popular, "18 And Life" and "I Remember You."

Right off the bat, the band introduces themselves as one not to mess with. The first track, "Big Guns," shows the world the potential Skid Row is capable of. Heavy distorted guitars, thumping bass, crashing drums, and Sebastian Bach's unbelievable vocals. The background vocals also demonstrate the toughness of this band. This song definitely prepares the listener for what is ahead on the rest of the album.

Even though it is not a single, "Can't Stand The Heartache" may be one of my favorites on the album. Similar to the first two songs on the record, something about this song sticks out to me. I believe I like this track the best because of the chorus. From a musician's standpoint, the chorus just sounds so fun and makes you want to strike some power-chords yourself.

About halfway through the album, the track that gained Skid Row much success appears. The song, "18 And Life," opens with a slower start compared to the rest of the songs. The lyrics are definitely ear-catching as they depict an eighteen year old being sentenced to life imprisonment for murder. Besides the dark lyrics, I believe this song demonstrates the band's musicianship the best. The distorted guitars sound amazing, and Bach demonstrates to the world his incredible vocal range before the solo. Man, the main solo and ending one are just so fun to play!

Very similar to "Big Guns," "Youth Gone Wild" possess the same composition. The song is more toned down during most parts but picks up during the chorus. As stated earlier, the chorus in this track is very forceful and demonstrates firmness very clearly. Listeners can also hear the true power in Sebastian's vocals throughout the entirety of the song.

The songs in between "Youth Gone Wild" and the next single "I Remember You," are great songs, but they pretty much sound the same. Nevertheless, they still demonstrate that "bad-boy" tone the band possessed. The band's second heavy air-played song, "I Remember You," is the second to last track. The song definitely sounds a little bit more cheerful with the acoustic guitar, but still contains that late-80s metal tone. Like I said before, everything about this song and its composition are great. Skid Row produced an amazing song that will be prominent in the rock world forever.

Overall, even though Skid Row was late to the game, they still achieved mild success. If they made their debut in 1986-87, they probably would have had much more success. Despite "18 And Life" and "I Remember You" being the most famous songs, the rest of the Skid Row album contains hidden gems all over. If you are one who enjoys heavy distorted guitars that are very melodic, pounding drums, and incredible vocal ranges, Skid Row's albums from the late-80s to early-90s should be listened to.

The Return of the Thunder-God! (1987)

The years following the release of the Pyromania were marked by turmoil for Def Leppard. On New Years Eve in 1984, drummer Rick Allen was in an awful car crash that cost him his left arm. How was the band going to continue production of their upcoming album? Adding insult to injury, the band would amass millions of dollars of debt while recording what would be known as Hysteria. Despite hectic times, the band would have faith in Allen's recovery and stick with him. Adapting to an altered electronic drum set, Allen would be back to recording starting in 1985-86.

Wanting to create a hard rock version of Michael Jackson's Thriller, the band hoped for every song on 1987's Hysteria to become a single. Although that did not necessarily happen, the band scored close with seven out of twelve songs becoming singles. The band's release of Hysteria would skyrocket them to new heights and become their best selling album. I absolutely love this album as it is my favorite out of Leppard's discography. Some of my favorite singles on the album are "Animal," "Hysteria," and "Armageddon It."

Beginning an album with a completely new style, the band opens with "Women." I find this song  interesting as it almost possess a heavier sound compared to the rest of the tracks. However, while mimicking their old style, it is an introduction to their new commercial "pop" sound on Hysteria. The third track on the album, "Animal," is definitely my favorite track. I think this may be the song that introduced me to the band many years ago (surprisingly, not "Pour Some Sugar on Me"). The sound on this track is just incredible; everything from the intro guitar riff, the oh-so powerful chorus, and the simple, but yet so good bass track. While in a small band years ago, I think this is the track we played the most (we were all huge Leppard fans).

While I am typically not a fan of songs that get heavy-air-play, "Pour Some Sugar on Me" was crucial to the band's success. This song features all of the key elements Def Leppard is known for―distorted guitars, Joe Elliott's large vocal range, and Rick Allen's new electronic drum set. When I ask people to name one iconic song from the 80s, they always list this song. I guess "Pour Some Sugar on Me" may be one of the best songs to stem from the 1980s.

My second-favorite song on the album quickly follows behind "Pour Some Sugar on Me," "Armageddon It." When I first heard this track, I immediately thought of the band T.Rex. That intro guitar riff and riffs throughout clearly give away one of Def Leppard's inspirations. I always thought this track clearly represented the strong connection guitarists Phil Collen and Steve Clark developed with each other. That bond almost reminds me of Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards from The Rolling Stones. Leppard's melodic guitarists' playing is so fluid and blends together magically. I heavily enjoy the chorus on this song for how powerful it is, and the two guitar solos are definitely a pleasure to the ear.

"Armageddon It" is the last single until listeners get down to "Hysteria" and "Love and Affection" towards the end. While the songs in between singles may not be as known, they are amazing tracks. "Gods of War" riots about warfare, specifically the Cold War, and includes voice overs of President Ronald Reagan to give it an eerie feeling. "Don't Shoot Shot Gun" and "Run Riot" are very upbeat, fast songs that contain high-tempo guitar riffs and harmonies. Many people tend to skip over these two tracks because they are not singles; however, they are very fun tracks!

The second to last single on the album, "Hysteria," is a masterpiece of a ballad. The clean guitar chords and occasional distorted riffs are just beautiful. While the song remains as a ballad entirely, tension is built up in the pre-chorus and transitions into an amazing solo performed by the late Steve Clark. This ballad will always be one of my favorites of the 1980s as it brings back many memories.

To end the best-selling Def Leppard album that shot them up to success, "Love and Affection" is last. From what I remember, this track was Steve Clark's favorite to play live. Similar to "Hysteria," the track is a little more upbeat. As a guitarist, the main part of this song that is prominent to me is the solo. Listeners can really tell Clark put his heart and soul into the composition of such a magnificent song.

The first time I heard this album years ago, I was blown away. The entirety of the album was on repeat for many days afterwards. Even though Def Leppard may have lost some fans that favored their older style of music, they sure gained many new ones. Hysteria sent the band to new heights while scoring them numerous successful singles. This album will forever be my favorite album of the 1980s. All the hard work including the vocals, instrumentation, and overall production is just excellent. What would have the 1980s been like without the music of Def Leppard?

Def Leppard's "In the Round" Concert―1987

The Walk (1985)

The mid-to-late 80s is definitely my favorite period of music. Most iconic albums from the 1980s were released in the second half of the decade. Almost halfway into 1985, one of my favorite albums was released—Brothers In Arms. While I never get tired of listening to heavily distorted guitars and screeching vocals, it is nice to listen to a calmer version of rock 'n' roll. As silly as it sounds, I first discovered Dire Straits from a Burger King commercial seven or eight years ago. Ever since, I have explored their whole discography and continue to find more material.

Dire Straits, a major rock 'n' roll band, was not defined as a typical hard rock band of the 80s. Instead, they were more known for a calmer, roots/bluesy approach to rock. This different approach did not stop them from releasing commercial hits and soaring high up on popular music charts. Brothers In Arms, the band's best record, would spawn seven singles consisting of "Money for Nothing," "Walk of Life," and "So Far Away."

Starting off slow with the roots rock sound, "So Far Away" properly introduces the record. Listening to this single puts me in a peaceful and calm place. Mark Knopfler, the band's leader and guitarist, contributes to the soothing track with an iconic slide guitar riff and melodic arpeggiated notes throughout. Hearing Knopfler's guitar track during this track is so satisfying.

The "heaviest" song on the album is second in-line. "Money for Nothing," an eight-and-a-half minute track, begins with an almost ominous introduction with Sting chanting "I want my MTV." The introduction slowly builds up tension with pounding drums and synth. To break that everlasting tension, Knopfler crashes in with that iconic, right-in-your-face guitar track we all love. The guitar part of this song is pretty tricky to play, but overall is incredibly fun! Sting's background vocals also accompany the song quite nicely.

Ending on a high note with "Money for Nothing," we are quickly introduced to "Walk of Life." As embarrassing as it may be, this is the track I heard on that Burger King commercial. Because of that, this track is my favorite off the LP. Right away, the synthesizer has a very uplifting tone that makes you feel cheerful. As if that is not enough, Mark quickly jumps in with a very pleasant rock 'n' roll rhythm with a handful of chord changes. This very pop-based song is destined to turn anybody's negative mood around.

Following "Walk of Life," the album slows down with its tracks. Instrumental is mainly heard throughout the rest of these tracks and occasional vocals from Mark. While these tracks may not be as important as the singles, they really highlight the band's talented musicianship.

Of the last few tracks on Brothers In Arms, "Ride Across the River" is very interesting. This track is nothing like the band's other tracks. The song almost sounds like something from Latin-America with its percussion and guitar riffs. The lyrics are also very intriguing as they depict guerrilla warfare.

To conclude such an iconic album of the 1980s, the band took a more memorable, slower approach. Out of respect for the Falklands War that occurred that year, the band paid its respects to those affected by the conflict. Ending such a great album with dedication is just so powerful. I respect Dire Straits significantly for taking this approach. Like the other tracks, this song highlights the band's excellent musicianship (especially heard from Knopfler's beautiful solos).

After the release of Brothers In Arms, Dire Straits would rise to fame. However, while they still were popular around the world, their significance in music would slowly fade into late-80s-early-90s. I had always wished Mark Knopfler and the band would reunite and tour, but unfortunately, Mark clearly stated he will never reunite. That is no big deal though as us fans have plenty of material to play in legacy of this great band.

A Tumultuous Transition (1983)

Originating during the late 1970s as a heavy metal band, Def Leppard experienced a crucial transition in the style of their music. In between their heavy metal roots and pop-rock sound discovered in 1987, Def Leppard would release Pyromania in early-1983. I am pretty excited to be writing about this album because Def Leppard has been my favorite band for a long time. Many listeners are very critical about the band taking a different approach to their sound; however, I think all of their material is excellent. Pyromania, the last album featuring that early-Leppard sound, contains four singles titled "Photograph," "Rock of Ages," and "Foolin," and "Too Late for Love."

Confusion and turmoil was upon the band between late-1981 and into 1982. Pete Willis, guitarist and co-founder of Def Leppard, was fired and replaced by Phil Collen. Many fans were upset by this decision as Willis had recorded almost all the guitar tracks on the upcoming album, Pyromania. Collen was quickly able to adapt to the new band and help finish the album before its release. Even though Collen may have a different style compared to Willis, I still heavily enjoy the work he contributed to the band's skyrocketing success.

The band opens the album with the powerful "Rock Rock (Till You Drop)." The gritty guitar riff, Phil's first solo on the album, and Joe Elliott's high-range vocals prepare listeners for the masterpiece ahead of them. Years ago, the first song that introduced me to Def Leppard was "Photograph." Today, after listening to the band non-stop, I think this single is what defines the band. Not too heavy, however, not too pop-like. This track sets the band up for what the material off of 1987's Hysteria would sound like. An iconic, fun guitar riff, amazing vocals, and the beautiful harmonizing in the background is what makes me love this song and band so much.

Taking more of a slow approach; the track "Foolin'" appears halfway through. Possessing more of a heavier sound than "Photograph," the song begins with an almost ominous arpeggiated guitar riff and synth track. Shortly after the intro, the song becomes more upbeat in the chorus which also contains the iconic Def Leppard harmonization that we all love.

One of my favorite tracks on the album, "Rock of Ages," helped propel the band towards the mainstream direction. The kooky introduction phrase is definitely an eye-raiser for those who have never heard it before. According to an interview with the band, the phrase muttered by producer Mutt Lange is just Geman gibberish. Besides that, Joe Elliott quotes a phrase that is still one of my favorites today: "It's better to burn out/Than to fade away." The phrase slowly leads listeners into a more slowed down, forceful song still containing that heavy sound with a slight hint of pop.

To conclude this transitional album, the band includes three songs that are not recognized like the others. While I do enjoy all of the songs on the album, the last three sound pretty similar to each other. I think the band could have included a song that is of a slower tempo instead of three heavy songs. Even though a ballad would have been nice, Def Leppard would not produce those kinds of songs till the Hysteria era. Although the three conclusion tracks lack difference, I do enjoy how the guitars in "Billy's Got A Gun" sounds a lot like Dio's "Holy Diver."

Even though Pyromania may be Def Leppard's last heavy album and mark a significant change in sound, it would launch them into success. The band would overcome the inner turbulence and release a fantastic album that would spawn many prominent singles and help it achieve the number two spot on the Billboard 200 in the United States. To this day, it is nice to go back and listen to Leppard's excellent musicianship on Pyromania.

Def Leppard in 1983

The Inception of 80s Pop (1982)

Still riding the success from his 1979 album titled Off the Wall, Michael Jackson would have a powerful introduction into the 1980s. After almost seven months of recording, Michael Jackson would shock the world with the release of Thriller in 1982. With the large amount of material Jackson produced during the 1970s-80s, I have to say my favorite record is Thriller. A wide variety of themes ranging from pop, rock, funk, and disco are featured on this masterpiece. Following its release, seven out of nine of the album's songs would become singles. Prominent singles include "Beat It," "Billie Jean," and "Thriller."

After the release of his popular Off the Wall, Michael believed the album was not his best work. After years of improving himself and making managerial changes, Jackson set out to redeem himself in early-1982. During the recording process with a budget of only $750,000, Michael was still determined to make an album where every song served a purpose--and indeed he did. Every song with its superb composition provides the listener with a memorable experience. The ballads are very soft and peaceful while the rock songs are aggressive and hit hard.

The record begins with Jackson's famous "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'." The upbeat pop-based song features a very electronic beat accompanied by powerful background vocals, horns, and a short, funky guitar solo. A hint of disco can also be heard throughout the song which was based off of his previous album. To start off one of the best pop-albums in history, Michael picked the right track.

When I first listened to Thriller years ago, I was intrigued to see that Paul McCartney contributed to its production. "The Girl Is Mine" is a perfect example of a soft, peaceful ballad that is significant to the album. The airy-synthesizers, simple guitar riff, and the iconic vocal-duo between Jackson and McCartney is beautiful. The track is one of my favorite ballads on the LP due to it being so calm and smooth. Besides, who would not want to hear two of the best vocalists ever collaborate with each other?

With Halloween occurring at the end of the month, it ties in perfectly with the fourth track on the album, "Thriller." I remember being freaked out by this song when I first heard it many years ago. The creaking doors, howling dogs, organ, and creepy vocals really make the song a magnificent theme of horror. I also heavily enjoy the funky bass track throughout the song. Each time I listen to this spooky song, it gets better with age. Music lovers and I will continue to hear this song played every Halloween at haunted houses until our time comes.

Michael Jackson provides his rock 'n' roll fans with an incredible guitar-heavy track titled "Beat It." Jackson's determined, energetic vocals combined with Eddie Van Halen's memorable guitar solo define the sound of 80s rock. I cannot forget to mention the satisfying bass guitar track that nicely follows the solo. As a guitarist myself, I have never been able to cover Eddie's solo. The tapping, sliding, and harmonics are just too complicated.

Jackson's track "Billie Jean" contributed to Thriller becoming one of the best-selling albums ever.  The song has an interesting theme as it describes a pregnant woman named "Billie Jean" who had a one-night stand the narrator. However, the context of the song may lead listeners to think that Jackson may be the father. I love how the song is very bass-track heavy and how the synth gives it an almost "sinister" feeling.

To conclude one of the best-pop albums in history, Jackson takes a more ballad-heavy approach (minus the very upbeat "P.Y.T."). I believe that this more calm approach is justified due to the shocking listening experience throughout the entire album. The album would sit on the number one spot in multiple countries, become platinum-certified thirty-three times, and become the best-selling album until it was topped by the Eagles in August 2018. The King of Pop's hard-work and devotion into Thriller has changed the music world forever and will continue to be popular for many years to come. Michael, you are dearly missed by me and all of your fans. Thank you for the amazing music over the years.

Michael Jackson in 'Thriller"

"Radio-Friendly" Progressive Rock (1981)

Defined by a definitive progressive rock sound and lengthy songs on previous albums, Rush took a new approach to songwriting in 1980-81. To appeal to the "commercial" crowd, the band began to write shorter length songs that were more "radio-friendly." After writing and recording in 1980, Rush would release one of their best and most selling albums in 1981―Moving Pictures. The LP immediately amassed commercial success in countries such as Canada, the United States, and United Kingdom. Prominent singles included on the album are "Tom Sawyer," "Vital Signs," and "Limelight."

Even though Rush were focused on producing shorter, "radio-friendly" songs in the 1980s, the band did not lose their progressive rock sound. Moving Pictures still contained preposterous time signatures, theme changes, and unique instrument parts. "Tom Sawyer," one of the songs that launched Rush to commercial success, is forever known to many as one of Rush's most popular songs. While I do somewhat agree with this claim, I believe that "Limelight" had a more significant effect. 

"Tom Sawyer" heavily relies on Geddy Lee's synthesizer as heard throughout the song and in conjunction with Alex Lifeson's excellent guitar solo. We also cannot forget about one of the best drummers to ever rise from rock 'n' roll, Neil Peart. Peart's impressive drumming introduced the "commercial" world to uncommon percussion that just does not have to be a simple snare and hi-hat beat in 4/4 time. The band would continue to play this fan-favorite song on every tour up until their retirement in 2018.

While not as popular as other tracks on the album, "YYZ" has to be one of my favorites. This instrumental track accurately demonstrates what each member is capable of on their instrument. Every member of the trio is heard loud and clear during the four-and-a-half minute song. What I really enjoy about this song and Rush in general is the bass track. Compared to other bands of the 1980s who did not utilize the bass to its full potential, Geddy Lee did. Lee's bass track has always been prominent in almost every song released by the band. The bass also ties in very nicely with Lifeson's riffs and solos on "YYZ." Neil Peart also holds the song together in 10/8 time with his monster drum set consisting of numerous toms, cymbals, and snares.

Many may not know that drummer Neil Peart wrote a significant amount of songs for the band. One of the most popular as mentioned earlier, "Limelight." While this track may seem upbeat and cheerful because of the instrumentation, it actually is not. Because of Rush's increased success and public attention, the song accurately captures Peart's discomfort. The increasing popularity made Peart feel like there was a loss of privacy. Unfortunately, to further Peart's uneasiness, the track would reach the number four spot in the United States. 

To conclude Rush's first album directed towards commercial audiences, "Witch Hunt" and the single "Vital Signs" are last. "Witch Hunt," while not one of my favorites, is the third part of the band's "Fear Series" that depicts life controlled by fear. Last but not least, "Vital Signs" is an interesting one due to the amount of genres that are featured throughout. I thoroughly enjoy this track due to Lifeson's guitar riffs that almost have a reggae feeling and the electronica vibe from the synthesizers. Even though the song is not necessarily as popular as the other singles on the album, I think it was an appropriate track to end with. 

Overall, Rush's first chance to strike interest in commercial audiences was a success. The band scored multiple hits and quickly soared to fame throughout the early-to-mid 1980s. Despite majority of the songs on Moving Pictures being shorter than on previous albums, they still possess the classic progressive sound adopted by Rush. Being one of my favorite Rush albums, I highly recommend every rock 'n' roll/progressive rock fan spend some time with it.

Alex Lifeson & Geddy Lee live―1981

How Many Girls? (1978)

Defined by disco and newer rock 'n' roll bands, the mid-1970s proved to be a difficult time for bands originating during the 1960s. Many bands such as The Rolling Stones were beginning to be viewed as obsolete in favor of newer rock bands such as KISS. Despite the hardships faced in society and in the band itself, The Rolling Stones would release their sixteenth American studio album titled Some Girls in 1978. This album is hands-down my favorite album ever released by the Stones and contains my favorite songs written. Many other fans felt that way too; seeing that the album went on to become the band's best-selling album in the United States.

While conducting some research on the album, I learned that the band was facing some issues during the recording process. Guitarist Keith Richards was facing legal trouble during 1977 for heroin possession. To make up for his absence, Mick Jagger is regarded as the main songwriter for this album. Even though he appeared on the previous album Black and Blue, Some Girls introduced the world to Ronnie Wood and Keith Richard's inseparable guitar playing. 

Some Girls features four hit singles that have been played around the world. Those singles are "Miss You," my all time favorite song, "Beast of Burden," "Respectable," and "Shattered." Opening up with a bluesy-disco mix, the track "Miss You" is a powerful start to the album. Listeners are quickly introduced to the magnificent guitar work from Richard's and Wood. Other notable instruments such as horns can be heard; along with Jagger's various vocal pitches throughout. The single is definitely one of the band's best songs. 

Next in line, "When the Whip Comes Down" is the perfect introduction into the upbeat part of the album. The loud vocals from Jagger, striking guitar riffs from the duo, and we cannot forget about my favorite part, the guitar solo. Slowing down and incorporating a country-like style, the Stones include the relaxing "Far Away Eyes" for track six. I am usually not a fan of country/southern styles of music but I really enjoy this song. Ronnie Wood plays an interesting instrument on this song; a pedal steel guitar. The instrument can be heard by the iconic sliding sound throughout and during the solo. Mick also humorously imitates southern-Americans with a southern accent.

Jumping to the end of the album, the band finishes off with "Beast of Burden" and "Shattered." Besides hearing "Sympathy for the Devil" years ago, "Beast of Burden" is the track that got me really interested in the Stones. While it sounds cliche, everything about this song is perfect. I cannot begin to describe how much I enjoy the various guitar tracks throughout this song. If I had to pick a song that featured Richards/Wood with their best work, this would be it. Richards providing the iconic three-chord riff throughout, and Wood's random licks at various parts fit so well. Years ago when I decided to start playing the guitar, this was the song I wanted to learn. It took me what seemed like forever to figure out Richard's chords. To this day, years later, this song is still my favorite Stones song and will forever be.

The last track on the album is an interesting one. Marked by an almost funky, punk-rock kind of sound, "Shattered" is a weird one. What really defines this song is yet again, the guitar work provided by Keith and Ronnie. The guitar riff is the simple strumming of various chords but with a phaser—the effect that provides that distinct noise. Overall, the song is just marked by silliness from all of different band members.

To conclude, my favorite album released by The Rolling Stones would reach the number one spot in the United States and number two in the United Kingdom. Despite being bogged down by internal conflict and a new music environment, I believe the Stones had mild success with their last album of the 1970s. For anyone interested in listening to an album where the band returns to their "roots," Some Girls is very admirable.

Mick & Keith live in Texas—1978