3 Glam Metal Songs From the 1980s That Even Diehard Classic Metalheads Aren’t Afraid To Listen to in Public
The article names three 1980s glam metal songs it says can appeal even to fans of classic heavy metal: Mötley Crüe’s “Shout At The Devil”, W.A.S.P.’s “Wild Child” and Quiet Riot’s “Metal Health (Bang Your Head)”. It argues that their heavy riffs and rebellious sound give them qualities that extend beyond glam metal’s polished image.
“Shout At The Devil” reached No. 23 on the US Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart and No. 30 on Mainstream Rock in 1983, despite controversy over claims it encouraged devil worship. “Wild Child” charted in the UK, while “Metal Health (Bang Your Head)” reached No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 and also performed well on Mainstream Rock. The article presents all three as enduring examples of glam metal with broad metal appeal.
In short
- Three glam metal tracks have appeal beyond the genre.
- Mötley Crüe’s “Shout At The Devil” charted in 1983.
- Quiet Riot’s “Metal Health” reached No. 31 on the Hot 100.
Explained simply
Glam metal was a strand of heavy metal that became popular in the 1980s, often combining loud guitar riffs and rebellious themes with a polished look and catchy choruses. It was associated with bands such as Mötley Crüe, W.A.S.P. and Quiet Riot, whose songs reached rock and pop audiences.
The three tracks named here show how glam metal could vary in sound and reach listeners beyond its usual image. Their chart success also reflects how heavy guitar music crossed into mainstream radio during the decade.