We asked glam and hard rock fans across our Facebook and Instagram pages one simple question:
Who is the greatest 80s hair metal band?
After analyzing hundreds of responses, one thing became clear: the glam metal era is still alive — and fans are just as passionate as ever.
Here are the bands that received the most mentions.
🏆 1. Mötley Crüe
There was no real debate here. Mötley Crüe dominated the conversation, with fans calling them “the band that ruled the planet.”
From Shout at the Devil to Dr. Feelgood, their impact on the 80s glam scene is undeniable — both musically and culturally.
🥈 2. Bon Jovi
One of the most mentioned bands — and also one of the most debated.
While some fans consider Bon Jovi essential to the glam era, others argue they leaned more into mainstream rock. Either way, their influence and global success are impossible to ignore.
🥉 3. Poison
If glam metal had a personality, many fans believe it would be Poison.
High energy, big hooks, and pure 80s attitude — Poison continues to be one of the most beloved bands of the genre.
4. Ratt
A fan favorite among true glam metal enthusiasts.
Ratt consistently appeared in comments, often alongside Mötley Crüe and Cinderella, proving their lasting respect in the scene.
5. Def Leppard
With a unique blend of glam and arena rock, Def Leppard secured a strong position in fan votes.
Many fans highlighted their resilience and legacy, especially drummer Rick Allen’s incredible story.
🔥 Honorable Mentions
Fans also showed love for:
- Cinderella
- Skid Row
- Dokken
- Whitesnake
- Warrant
- White Lion
⚔️ The Debate: What Counts as Hair Metal?
Not everyone agreed on what qualifies as “hair metal.”
Some fans brought up bands like:
- Guns N’ Roses
- Van Halen
- KISS
- Iron Maiden
Which sparked an ongoing debate:
Where does glam end and hard rock begin?
🗣️ What Fans Are Saying
“Mötley Crüe ruled the planet.”
“Too many great bands to choose just one.”
“Bon Jovi is not metal.”
“Poison all the way.”
🎸 Final Thoughts
The 80s glam metal era wasn’t defined by just one band — it was a movement.
But if there’s one thing fans made clear, it’s this:
👉 Mötley Crüe still sits at the top of the glam metal throne.
🤘 Join the Conversation
What do YOU think?
Which band deserves the #1 spot?
👉 Join the conversation on our social media and be part of the next fan vote.
Follow us on:
