1. “Eruption” – Eddie Van Halen (Van Halen)
Although technically released in 1978, Eddie Van Halen’s “Eruption” is a cornerstone of hair metal guitar solos. This instrumental solo showcased Van Halen’s revolutionary tapping technique, which would influence countless guitarists in the following decade. The sheer speed and precision of “Eruption” redefined the possibilities of electric guitar playing, setting a precedent for the technical prowess expected in hair metal solos.
2. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Slash (Guns N’ Roses)
Slash’s solo in “Sweet Child o’ Mine” is as iconic as the song’s memorable opening riff. Released in 1987, the solo combines melodic phrasing with blues-influenced bends, creating a perfect balance between technical skill and emotional expression. Slash’s Les Paul tone and his expressive playing style contributed significantly to the song’s status as a timeless classic.
3. “Livin’ on a Prayer” – Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi)
Richie Sambora’s solo in “Livin’ on a Prayer” is a testament to his ability to craft solos that are both technically proficient and melodically engaging. The use of the talk box adds a distinctive texture, helping the solo stand out in one of Bon Jovi’s most anthemic tracks. Sambora’s blend of rock and blues elements in his playing became a significant influence on the hair metal genre.
4. “Still of the Night” – John Sykes (Whitesnake)
John Sykes’ solo in “Still of the Night” is a masterclass in dynamics and intensity. The solo complements the song’s Led Zeppelin-inspired structure, featuring fast-paced runs and aggressive bends. Sykes’ performance encapsulates the raw power and technical skill that defined hair metal guitar playing in the 80s.
5. “Here I Go Again” – John Sykes (Whitesnake)
Another iconic solo by John Sykes, “Here I Go Again” features a memorable melody coupled with virtuosic runs. The solo’s fluidity and precision enhance the song’s introspective lyrics, providing a sense of resolution and triumph. Sykes’ ability to balance speed with melody made him one of the standout guitarists of the era.
6. “Wanted Dead or Alive” – Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi)
This ballad features a solo that perfectly captures the song’s Western theme. Sambora’s choice of notes and phrasing evokes the imagery of the open road, with a blend of clean tones and overdriven sections. The solo’s narrative quality makes it one of the most memorable in Bon Jovi’s catalog.
7. “Round and Round” – Warren DeMartini (Ratt)
Warren DeMartini’s solo in “Round and Round” is a quintessential example of hair metal’s technical flair. Known for his precise execution and creative phrasing, DeMartini delivers a solo that is both intricate and catchy, contributing to the track’s enduring popularity in the genre.
8. “Photograph” – Steve Clark (Def Leppard)
Steve Clark’s work on “Photograph” is a showcase of his ability to craft melodic solos that enhance the song’s narrative. The solo features a mix of soaring bends and precise picking, encapsulating the exuberance and drama that defined Def Leppard’s sound in the 1980s.
9. “Nothin’ But a Good Time” – C.C. DeVille (Poison)
C.C. DeVille’s solo in this party anthem is a perfect blend of energy and showmanship. The solo’s playful nature and flashy execution reflect the band’s carefree image, making it a staple in any discussion of quintessential hair metal guitar work.
10. “Pour Some Sugar on Me” – Phil Collen (Def Leppard)
Phil Collen’s solo in “Pour Some Sugar on Me” is a testament to his technical proficiency and creative approach to melody. The solo features harmonized runs and a catchy riff that complements the song’s infectious chorus, solidifying its place as a hair metal anthem.
11. “Lay It Down” – Warren DeMartini (Ratt)
Another entry by Warren DeMartini, the solo in “Lay It Down” exemplifies his ability to blend speed with melody. The solo’s structure and phrasing are a perfect match for the song’s aggressive yet polished sound, showcasing DeMartini’s influence on the genre.
12. “Hot for Teacher” – Eddie Van Halen (Van Halen)
Eddie Van Halen’s solo in “Hot for Teacher” is a tour de force of technical skill and innovation. The combination of tapping, fast alternate picking, and whammy bar tricks create a dynamic and exhilarating performance that remains a benchmark for aspiring guitarists.
13. “Home Sweet Home” – Mick Mars (Mötley Crüe)
Mick Mars’ solo in “Home Sweet Home” complements the song’s ballad structure with emotive phrasing and a keen sense of melody. The solo’s ability to convey a sense of longing and resolution makes it a standout moment in Mötley Crüe’s discography.
14. “Youth Gone Wild” – Scotti Hill (Skid Row)
Scotti Hill’s solo in “Youth Gone Wild” captures the rebellious spirit of the song with its aggressive playing style and energetic phrasing. The solo’s raw power and technical flair make it a defining moment for Skid Row and a staple of hair metal guitar work.
15. “18 and Life” – Dave “Snake” Sabo (Skid Row)
Dave Sabo’s solo in “18 and Life” is a poignant and technically impressive piece that enhances the song’s narrative of youthful recklessness. The solo’s melodic structure and emotional depth highlight Sabo’s ability to blend technical skill with storytelling.
16. “Once Bitten, Twice Shy” – Mark Kendall (Great White)
Mark Kendall’s solo in “Once Bitten, Twice Shy” is a perfect example of how a solo can elevate a song. His blues-influenced playing and tasteful use of bends and slides create a memorable and engaging performance that complements the song’s rock and roll vibe.
17. “Rock You Like a Hurricane” – Rudolf Schenker (Scorpions)
Rudolf Schenker’s solo in “Rock You Like a Hurricane” is a masterclass in precision and energy. The solo’s catchy melody and powerful execution make it a defining moment for the Scorpions and a favorite among hair metal enthusiasts.
18. “Talk Dirty to Me” – C.C. DeVille (Poison)
C.C. DeVille’s solo in “Talk Dirty to Me” is a high-energy performance that showcases his flair for catchy melodies and technical showmanship. The solo’s playful nature and infectious energy make it a quintessential hair metal moment.
19. “Nobody’s Fool” – Jeff LaBar (Cinderella)
Jeff LaBar’s solo in “Nobody’s Fool” is a showcase of his ability to blend melodic phrasing with technical skill. The solo’s emotive quality and fluid execution enhance the song’s dramatic narrative, making it a standout track in Cinderella’s catalog.
20. “Love Song” – Frank Hannon (Tesla)
Frank Hannon’s solo in “Love Song” is a testament to his ability to create solos that are both technically proficient and emotionally resonant. The solo’s melodic structure and expressive phrasing make it a perfect complement to the song’s heartfelt lyrics.
Conclusion
The hair metal era produced some of the most memorable and technically impressive guitar solos in rock history. From the innovative techniques of Eddie Van Halen to the emotive phrasing of Slash and Richie Sambora, these solos have left an indelible mark on the genre and continue to inspire guitarists today. Each solo on this list showcases the unique blend of speed, melody, and showmanship that defined hair metal, ensuring that these performances remain classics in the pantheon of rock music.