Step into the Sunset Strip's golden era with Mötley Crüe's iconic "Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)" video.
The Song
"Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)" is a quintessential power ballad by the legendary glam metal band Mötley Crüe. It appears as the tenth track on their highly successful 1989 album, Dr. Feelgood. Bassist Nikki Sixx and guitarist Mick Mars co-wrote the song.
The lyrics, though seemingly sensitive at first, deliver a sarcastic twist, ultimately asking a departing lover not to leave angry, but simply to leave. This tongue-in-cheek approach perfectly encapsulated the band's rebellious yet playful image. Vocalist Vince Neil has described it as a "feel-good song" that everyone wants to sing along to.
The Artist
Mötley Crüe, comprised of Vince Neil (vocals), Mick Mars (guitar), Nikki Sixx (bass), and Tommy Lee (drums), emerged from the Sunset Strip in the early 1980s to become one of the most iconic and notorious bands in hard rock. Known for their extravagant stage shows, decadent lifestyle, and anthemic songs, they defined the glam metal era.
Dr. Feelgood, released on September 1, 1989, marked a pivotal moment for the band, being their first album recorded while collectively sober. This newfound focus, coupled with producer Bob Rock's meticulous approach, resulted in one of their most critically and commercially successful albums, topping the Billboard 200 chart.
Chart Performance
Released as the fourth single from Dr. Feelgood in May 1990, "Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)" continued the album's impressive run of hits. It peaked at #19 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the band's last Top 20 hit on that chart.
The track also performed strongly on rock radio, reaching #13 on the Mainstream Rock charts. Its success solidified Dr. Feelgood as a multi-platinum behemoth, spawning multiple singles that became staples of the era.
Cultural Impact
The music video for "Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)" is a classic example of late 80s/early 90s hair metal aesthetic, capturing the band's energy and swagger. Directed by Mary Lambert (under the alias "Blanche White"), it showcases the band's persona and the vibrant Los Angeles rock scene.
The song itself became a popular live staple, performed over a thousand times by the band throughout their career. It remains a fan favorite and a testament to the enduring appeal of Mötley Crüe and the Dr. Feelgood album, which is often cited as one of the best pop-metal albums ever.
Fun Facts
- The title for the song, "Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)," was inspired by a line Nikki Sixx heard in a movie, which he later believed to be Clint Eastwood's 1986 film Heartbreak Ridge.
- Director Mary Lambert also directed Mötley Crüe's video for "Without You," another single from Dr. Feelgood.
- The music video opens with Vince Neil leaving New York City to join his bandmates in Los Angeles for rehearsal.
- The line "Too young to fall in love" is a subtle nod to the band's own 1983 song, "Too Young to Fall in Love."
- The New York Times included the video on its list of the "15 Essential Hair-Metal Videos."