1. Eric Martin (Mr. Big)
Background
Eric Martin, the charismatic frontman of Mr. Big, is often overshadowed by the band’s virtuosic instrumentalists. Founded in 1988, Mr. Big quickly gained a reputation for their technical prowess, thanks to the talents of guitar wizard Paul Gilbert and bass legend Billy Sheehan.
Vocal Style and Contributions
Martin’s voice is characterized by its rich, soulful quality and impressive range. His ability to convey emotion through his singing, combined with his dynamic stage presence, made him a standout performer. Hits like “To Be With You” and “Just Take My Heart” showcase his ability to blend power and subtlety, but his work across the band’s catalog demonstrates his versatility.
Legacy
Though Mr. Big achieved commercial success, particularly in Japan, Eric Martin’s contributions have often been underappreciated in the broader hair metal narrative. His continued presence in music, both with Mr. Big and as a solo artist, speaks to his enduring talent and influence.
2. Jizzy Pearl (Love/Hate)
Background
Jizzy Pearl emerged as the frontman of Love/Hate, a band known for its raw energy and eclectic style. Despite critical acclaim, Love/Hate never reached the commercial heights of some of their contemporaries, which has left Pearl somewhat in the shadows of hair metal history.
Vocal Style and Contributions
Pearl’s voice is gritty and powerful, embodying the rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. His dynamic range and ability to convey raw emotion set him apart from many of his peers. Love/Hate’s debut album, “Blackout in the Red Room,” is a testament to his vocal prowess, with tracks like “Why Do You Think They Call It Dope?” highlighting his versatility.
Legacy
Despite Love/Hate’s limited commercial success, Pearl’s influence is recognized by peers and fans alike. His work with other bands, including Ratt and Quiet Riot, further cements his place as an underrated yet essential voice in hair metal.
3. John Corabi (The Scream, Mötley Crüe)
Background
John Corabi is perhaps best known for his brief stint with Mötley Crüe, replacing Vince Neil in the mid-1990s. Before joining the Crüe, Corabi fronted The Scream, showcasing his bluesy, powerful vocals.
Vocal Style and Contributions
Corabi’s voice is a blend of bluesy grit and melodic power, setting him apart from many of his contemporaries. His work on Mötley Crüe’s self-titled 1994 album brought a new depth and maturity to the band’s sound, earning critical acclaim despite its commercial challenges.
Legacy
While Corabi’s tenure with Mötley Crüe was brief, his impact on the band and the genre is undeniable. His continued success with projects like The Dead Daisies showcases his enduring talent and versatility.
4. Taime Downe (Faster Pussycat)
Background
Taime Downe, the enigmatic frontman of Faster Pussycat, brought a punk-infused edge to the hair metal scene. Known for their sleazy sound and irreverent lyrics, Faster Pussycat stood out from the more polished acts of the time.
Vocal Style and Contributions
Downe’s voice is raw and gritty, perfectly complementing the band’s rebellious image. His charismatic stage presence and unique vocal delivery are evident in hits like “House of Pain” and “Bathroom Wall.”
Legacy
Despite not achieving the same level of commercial success as some of their peers, Faster Pussycat and Taime Downe’s influence on the genre is significant. Downe’s ongoing involvement in music, both with Faster Pussycat and other projects, underscores his status as an underrated yet impactful figure in hair metal.
5. Tom Keifer (Cinderella)
Background
Tom Keifer, the driving force behind Cinderella, is renowned for his distinctive voice and songwriting prowess. Cinderella’s blend of hard rock and blues set them apart in the hair metal landscape, earning them a dedicated fan base.
Vocal Style and Contributions
Keifer’s voice is characterized by its raspy, soulful quality, capable of delivering both high-energy rockers and heartfelt ballads. His songwriting, evident in hits like “Nobody’s Fool” and “Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone),” showcases his ability to craft memorable, emotionally resonant songs.
Legacy
Despite Cinderella’s success, Tom Keifer’s contributions to the genre are often underappreciated. His solo work continues to highlight his vocal and songwriting talents, solidifying his place as one of hair metal’s most underrated singers.
6. Mark Slaughter (Slaughter)
Background
Mark Slaughter emerged as the frontman of Slaughter, a band that quickly made a name for themselves with their energetic performances and catchy hooks. Despite commercial success, Mark Slaughter’s vocal talents often remain underrecognized in discussions about hair metal greats.
Vocal Style and Contributions
Slaughter’s voice is powerful and melodic, with a distinctive timbre that sets him apart. His ability to deliver both soaring anthems and emotive ballads is evident in tracks like “Up All Night” and “Fly to the Angels.”
Legacy
Though Slaughter achieved commercial success in the early 1990s, Mark Slaughter’s contributions to the genre are often overlooked. His enduring influence is apparent in his continued work as a musician and producer, showcasing his versatility and passion for music.
Conclusion
The world of hair metal is rich with talented singers, many of whom have not received the recognition they deserve. Eric Martin, Jizzy Pearl, John Corabi, Taime Downe, Tom Keifer, and Mark Slaughter each brought something unique to the genre, their voices echoing through the annals of rock history. By revisiting their contributions, we celebrate their impact and ensure their legacies endure in the ever-evolving landscape of rock music.