The Rise and Influence of Ratt in Glam Metal

Ratt (stylized as RATT) is an American glam metal band that achieved significant commercial success in the 1980s. With multiple albums certified as gold, platinum, and multi-platinum by the RIAA, the band solidified their place in rock history. They are best known for iconic hits like “Round and Round” and “Lay It Down” which peaked at No. 12 and No. 40 on the Billboard charts, respectively.

Alongside contemporaries like Mötley Crüe, Ratt played a crucial role in shaping the early 1980s Los Angeles glam metal scene, often referred to as “hair metal” or “pop metal”. They managed to keep up their popularity with sporadic tours and recordings from the 1990s until 2021, culminating in their final studio album, Infestation, released in April 2010.

History

Early Years (1973–1982)

The origins of Ratt trace back to 1973 in Hollywood when lead singer Stephen Pearcy formed a band called Firedome. After a few lineup changes and the band’s breakup in 1974, Pearcy reformed under the name Crystal Pystal which was later changed to Mickey Ratt in 1976. The lineup fluctuated over the years with members such as guitarists Jake E. Lee and Chris Hager, bassists like Matt Thorr, and drummers like John Turner.

In 1980, Ratt recorded a single ‘Dr. Rock’ to help secure a recording contract, leading to the eventual arrival of key members like guitarist Warren DeMartini and bassist Juan Croucier.

Noteworthy Releases (1983–1985)

In July 1983, the self-titled EP was released, selling over 100,000 records and marking the band’s surge in popularity on the Hollywood club circuit. They were soon signed by Atlantic Records, leading to the release of their critically acclaimed first full-length album Out of the Cellar in March 1984, which showcased Pearcy’s vocals combined with the twin guitar work of Crosby and DeMartini.