1. “Slippery When Wet” by Bon Jovi
Released in 1986, Bon Jovi’s “Slippery When Wet” is a landmark album that catapulted the band to international fame. Although often associated with the broader rock spectrum, this album embodies the spirit of hair metal with tracks like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “You Give Love a Bad Name.” The combination of Jon Bon Jovi’s charismatic vocals and Richie Sambora’s iconic guitar riffs created an album that resonated deeply with hair metal enthusiasts.
2. “1984” by Van Halen
Van Halen’s sixth studio album, “1984,” released in the titular year, marked a significant evolution in their sound, integrating synthesizers into their hard rock foundation. With hits like “Jump” and “Panama,” the album embraced the glam aesthetics and infectious melodies characteristic of hair metal. Although Van Halen is primarily a hard rock band, “1984” captures the genre’s ethos, making it a pivotal record in the hair metal archive.
3. “Pyromania” by Def Leppard
Def Leppard’s “Pyromania,” released in 1983, is an album that straddles the line between hard rock and hair metal. With the production genius of Mutt Lange, the album features polished, radio-friendly tracks like “Photograph” and “Rock of Ages.” The album’s commercial success and stylistic elements align with the hair metal movement, despite Def Leppard’s broader categorization within hard rock.
4. “The Final Countdown” by Europe
Europe’s 1986 release, “The Final Countdown,” is best known for its title track, which became an anthem of the era. While Europe is primarily a hard rock band, this album’s grandiose style, synthesizer-driven melodies, and theatrical elements are quintessentially hair metal. The album’s success helped define the sound of the decade, and its influence persists in the genre.
5. “Appetite for Destruction” by Guns N’ Roses
Released in 1987, Guns N’ Roses’ debut album “Appetite for Destruction” is often categorized as hard rock or heavy metal, yet it played a crucial role in shaping the hair metal scene. With tracks like “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” the album combines gritty rock with glam influences, creating a raw yet polished sound that resonated with hair metal fans.
6. “Hysteria” by Def Leppard
Another entry from Def Leppard, “Hysteria,” released in 1987, pushed the boundaries of the band’s sound with a meticulously produced, arena-ready album. Hits like “Pour Some Sugar on Me” and “Love Bites” showcase the band’s ability to deliver catchy, anthemic songs that aligned perfectly with the hair metal aesthetic. “Hysteria” remains a defining album of the 1980s rock landscape.
7. “Out of the Cellar” by Ratt
Ratt’s 1984 debut album “Out of the Cellar” is often overshadowed by more mainstream acts, yet it embodies the essence of hair metal with its sleazy glam style and memorable riffs. Tracks like “Round and Round” exemplify the band’s knack for blending catchy hooks with a raw edge, solidifying their place in the hair metal pantheon.
8. “Tooth and Nail” by Dokken
Dokken’s “Tooth and Nail,” released in 1984, is a seminal album in the hair metal genre. While the band is often associated with heavy metal, this album’s melodic approach and power ballads like “Alone Again” showcase their hair metal credentials. The intricate guitar work and soaring vocals make it a quintessential example of the genre.
9. “Skid Row” by Skid Row
Skid Row’s self-titled debut album, released in 1989, is a hard-hitting entry into the hair metal canon. With Sebastian Bach’s powerful vocals and the band’s aggressive yet melodic approach, tracks like “18 and Life” and “Youth Gone Wild” capture the rebellious spirit and sonic polish that define hair metal. Their raw intensity and dynamic songwriting distinguish this album within the genre.
10. “Night Songs” by Cinderella
Cinderella’s 1986 album “Night Songs” showcases the band’s blues-rock roots infused with hair metal flair. Tracks like “Nobody’s Fool” and “Shake Me” highlight the band’s ability to blend gritty rock with glam aesthetics, creating a sound that resonates with hair metal fans. The album’s commercial success and stylistic diversity cement Cinderella’s place in the genre’s history.