Ratt
Ratt: A Journey Through Rock 'n' Roll Turbulence
Amidst the glam metal explosion of the 1980s, Ratt emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Their anthemic hit "Round and Round" propelled them to stardom, but their path was not without challenges and controversies.
Formation and Early Success
Formed in Los Angeles in 1977, Ratt initially consisted of vocalist Stephen Pearcy, guitarist Warren DeMartini, bassist Juan Croucier, and drummer Robbin Crosby. With their infectious melodies, flamboyant stage presence, and tales of wild nights, they quickly gained a loyal following.
Breakthrough and Commercial Triumph
The release of their debut album, "Out of the Cellar," in 1984, marked a turning point. Driven by the success of "Round and Round," the album sold over three million copies and established Ratt as a major force in rock music.
Addiction and Tragic Losses
Despite their commercial success, the band faced personal struggles. Crosby's drug addiction led to his departure in 1986. Tragically, he died of a heroin overdose in 2002. Pearcy also battled addiction, which contributed to his dismissal from the band in 1992.
Reunions and Legal Battles
After a decade-long hiatus, Ratt reunited in 2000 with a new lineup featuring Pearcy, DeMartini, Croucier, and drummer Bobby Blotzer. However, internal tensions and legal battles plagued the band. Blotzer filed a lawsuit against his former bandmates in 2007, alleging trademark infringement. The case was eventually settled out of court.
Recent Years and Discography
Despite the setbacks, Ratt has continued to release albums and tour. Their most recent album, "Infestation," was released in 2010. The band's discography includes:
* Out of the Cellar (1984)
* Invasion of Your Privacy (1985)
* Dancing Undercover (1986)
* Reach for the Sky (1988)
* Detonator (1990)
* Ratt & Roll 81-91 (2000)
* Infestation (2010)
Legacy and Impact
Despite the highs and lows, Ratt remains an iconic band in the annals of rock music. Their infectious songs, energetic live performances, and tumultuous history have left an enduring mark on the genre. While their controversies and personal struggles have been well-documented, their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Amidst the glam metal explosion of the 1980s, Ratt emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Their anthemic hit "Round and Round" propelled them to stardom, but their path was not without challenges and controversies.
Formation and Early Success
Formed in Los Angeles in 1977, Ratt initially consisted of vocalist Stephen Pearcy, guitarist Warren DeMartini, bassist Juan Croucier, and drummer Robbin Crosby. With their infectious melodies, flamboyant stage presence, and tales of wild nights, they quickly gained a loyal following.
Breakthrough and Commercial Triumph
The release of their debut album, "Out of the Cellar," in 1984, marked a turning point. Driven by the success of "Round and Round," the album sold over three million copies and established Ratt as a major force in rock music.
Addiction and Tragic Losses
Despite their commercial success, the band faced personal struggles. Crosby's drug addiction led to his departure in 1986. Tragically, he died of a heroin overdose in 2002. Pearcy also battled addiction, which contributed to his dismissal from the band in 1992.
Reunions and Legal Battles
After a decade-long hiatus, Ratt reunited in 2000 with a new lineup featuring Pearcy, DeMartini, Croucier, and drummer Bobby Blotzer. However, internal tensions and legal battles plagued the band. Blotzer filed a lawsuit against his former bandmates in 2007, alleging trademark infringement. The case was eventually settled out of court.
Recent Years and Discography
Despite the setbacks, Ratt has continued to release albums and tour. Their most recent album, "Infestation," was released in 2010. The band's discography includes:
* Out of the Cellar (1984)
* Invasion of Your Privacy (1985)
* Dancing Undercover (1986)
* Reach for the Sky (1988)
* Detonator (1990)
* Ratt & Roll 81-91 (2000)
* Infestation (2010)
Legacy and Impact
Despite the highs and lows, Ratt remains an iconic band in the annals of rock music. Their infectious songs, energetic live performances, and tumultuous history have left an enduring mark on the genre. While their controversies and personal struggles have been well-documented, their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide.