1. “We’re Stars” – Hear ‘n Aid
Released in 1985, “We’re Stars” is a unique collaboration that brought together numerous heavy metal and hard rock artists under the banner of Hear ‘n Aid. Initiated by Ronnie James Dio, this charity project aimed to raise funds for famine relief in Africa, similar to the efforts of Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” and USA for Africa’s “We Are the World.”
The song featured a star-studded lineup including:
- Ronnie James Dio (Dio, Black Sabbath)
- Rob Halford (Judas Priest)
- Geoff Tate (Queensrÿche)
- Vince Neil (Mötley Crüe)
- Members of Iron Maiden, Quiet Riot, and Blue Öyster Cult
The participation of these illustrious artists not only highlighted the sense of community within the metal genre but also showcased the incredible vocal and instrumental talents that defined the era. “We’re Stars” stands as a testament to the unity and generosity of the metal community, making it a significant milestone in hair metal history.
2. “Shot in the Dark” – Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne, often referred to as the “Prince of Darkness,” is a legendary figure in rock and metal music. In 1986, he released “Shot in the Dark,” a track that became one of his most successful solo hits. While not a traditional hair metal song, its commercial appeal and melodic hooks resonated with fans of the genre.
What makes this song particularly noteworthy is the contribution of guitarist Jake E. Lee, whose work with Osbourne helped define the sound of mid-80s rock. Lee’s intricate guitar riffs and solos injected a fresh energy into Osbourne’s music, solidifying “Shot in the Dark” as a staple in the hair metal playlist.
The collaboration between Osbourne and Lee exemplifies how the integration of talented musicians can elevate a track, creating a legacy that continues to influence modern rock and metal artists.
3. “Close My Eyes Forever” – Lita Ford and Ozzy Osbourne
In 1988, Lita Ford teamed up with Ozzy Osbourne to create “Close My Eyes Forever,” a power ballad that became an instant classic. The song was featured on Ford’s album Lita, and its haunting melody and poignant lyrics captivated audiences worldwide.
Ford and Osbourne’s vocal interplay is a standout feature of the track, with their contrasting styles blending seamlessly to convey a sense of longing and introspection. The collaboration came about during a recording session where Ford and Osbourne, both highly regarded in the metal community, decided to experiment with a duet.
“Close My Eyes Forever” achieved significant commercial success, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remains one of the most recognizable hair metal ballads, illustrating the power of collaboration between two iconic artists.
4. “Under the Gun” – Danger Danger featuring Ted Poley and Andy Timmons
Danger Danger, known for their catchy hooks and high-energy performances, made waves in the hair metal scene with their 1989 self-titled debut album. One of the standout tracks from this release is “Under the Gun,” which features guest appearances by Ted Poley and Andy Timmons.
Ted Poley, the band’s lead vocalist, and Andy Timmons, known for his virtuosic guitar work, brought their unique talents to the song, creating a dynamic and memorable performance. Timmons, who later gained recognition as a solo artist and session musician, delivered a blistering guitar solo that elevated the track to new heights.
The inclusion of these talented musicians showcased Danger Danger’s ability to collaborate with renowned artists, resulting in a track that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of hair metal with its infectious energy and technical prowess.
5. “Beat It” – Michael Jackson featuring Eddie Van Halen
While not a traditional hair metal song, Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” deserves a mention due to its groundbreaking collaboration with guitar virtuoso Eddie Van Halen. Released in 1983 as part of Jackson’s Thriller album, “Beat It” became a global sensation, in part due to Van Halen’s iconic guitar solo.
Van Halen, known for his revolutionary techniques and electrifying performances, brought his signature style to the track, creating a solo that remains one of the most celebrated in rock history. The collaboration between Jackson and Van Halen bridged the gap between pop and rock, showcasing the versatility and appeal of hair metal musicians.
“Beat It” not only achieved massive commercial success but also demonstrated the potential for cross-genre collaborations, paving the way for future partnerships between artists from different musical backgrounds.
Conclusion
The hair metal era was a time of innovation and collaboration, where artists from various backgrounds came together to create unforgettable music. The five songs highlighted in this article showcase the impact of big-name guest performers on the genre, illustrating the powerful synergy that can be achieved through collaboration.
From charity singles to groundbreaking cross-genre tracks, these collaborations have left an indelible mark on the music world, inspiring future generations of musicians and fans alike. The legacy of hair metal and its guest performers continues to resonate, reminding us of the enduring appeal of this dynamic and influential genre.