World news and discussion on TalkFuse.
On This Day in 1987, Def Leppard Released the 20-Million-Selling Album Inspired by One Life-Changing Car Accident
On 3 August 1987, Def Leppard released Hysteria, an album that went on to sell around 20 million copies worldwide and top charts in several countries. It marked a turning point for the band, being the first record made after drummer Rick Allen lost his left arm in a car accident, and the last to feature guitarist Steve Clark before his death in 1991. The album cemented Def Leppard's shift from their New Wave of British Heavy Metal roots to mainstream rock stardom, surpassing the success of their 1983 album Pyromania.
Hysteria produced seven singles, most notably "Love Bites", which topped the US Billboard Hot 100, along with hits such as "Animal", "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and the title track, though only "Animal" reached the UK top 10. The album's title was reportedly suggested by Allen himself, inspired by the intense global media coverage of his accident. Allen has since spoken about how the supporting tour restored his confidence as a drummer, recalling the audience's reception on his return to the stage as a deeply emotional "validation" after a difficult period.
In short
- Def Leppard's Hysteria turns 20-million-seller, released 3 August 1987
- First album after drummer Rick Allen's arm-loss car crash
- "Love Bites" hit US No. 1; last album with guitarist Steve Clark
Explained simply
Def Leppard are a rock band from Sheffield who rose to prominence in the 1980s. Their earlier album Pyromania had brought them major success, and Hysteria continued their move from the British heavy metal scene towards a broader rock audience.
Drummer Rick Allen lost his left arm in a car accident in 1984. He returned to the band using a specially adapted drum kit, and Hysteria was the first album they made after the accident. The record also featured guitarist Steve Clark, who died in 1991.
Hysteria became one of Def Leppard’s best-known albums, with several singles reaching large audiences, particularly in the United States. Its recording and tour marked a significant period in the band’s career and Allen’s return to performing.
Americas Entertainment Music World