Ratt is an American glam metal and hard rock band formed in 1978 in San Diego, California, originally under the name Mickey Ratt. The band later relocated to Los Angeles, where they became one of the defining acts of the 1980s glam metal scene.
Early Years (1978–1983)
Ratt was founded by vocalist Stephen Pearcy. During their early years, the band went through several lineup changes before solidifying their classic formation in the early 1980s.
The classic lineup included:
- Stephen Pearcy – vocals
- Warren DeMartini – guitar
- Robbin Crosby – guitar
- Juan Croucier – bass
- Bobby Blotzer – drums
In 1983, they released an independent EP that gained attention within the Southern California rock scene.
Breakthrough and Success (1984–1990)
Ratt achieved mainstream success with their debut album Out of the Cellar in 1984, which went multi-platinum.
The album featured their biggest hit, “Round and Round,” which became a defining anthem of the glam metal era.
Throughout the 1980s, Ratt was one of the leading bands in the genre, alongside acts like Mötley Crüe.
Key albums from this period include:
- Out of the Cellar (1984)
- Invasion of Your Privacy (1985)
- Dancing Undercover (1986)
- Reach for the Sky (1988)
- Detonator (1990)
Their sound combined heavy guitar riffs with melodic hooks and a polished, radio-friendly style.
Decline and Breakup (1990–1992)
In the early 1990s, the rise of grunge and alternative rock led to a decline in the popularity of glam metal. Internal conflicts and lineup instability further contributed to the band’s breakup in 1992.
Reunions and Later Years
Ratt reunited multiple times starting in the mid-1990s, although the lineup frequently changed.
In 1999, they released a self-titled album, followed by Infestation in 2010, their most recent studio release.
The band has continued to tour intermittently into the 2020s.
Legacy
Ratt is widely regarded as one of the most influential glam metal bands of the 1980s. Their music helped shape the sound and image of the Los Angeles hard rock scene.
Some of their most popular songs include:
- “Round and Round”
- “Lay It Down”
- “Wanted Man”
- “You’re in Love”
They have sold millions of records worldwide and remain an important reference in the history of hard rock and glam metal.
