Step into a time machine where hairspray ruled and guitars wailed, and experience one of the most iconic glam metal videos of the '80s.
The Song
"Round and Round" is one of the signature tracks by American glam metal band Ratt, released in 1984. It was the lead single from their debut album, Out of the Cellar, and quickly became an anthem for the burgeoning hard rock scene of the mid-1980s. The song features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and Stephen Pearcy's distinctive vocals, encapsulating the band's blend of hard rock grit and pop sensibility.
Produced by Beau Hill, the track showcases the tight musicianship of the band, with Robbin Crosby and Warren DeMartini delivering memorable guitar solos that became a hallmark of Ratt's sound. The song's structure and energetic delivery made it an instant radio hit, propelling Ratt into mainstream consciousness.
The Artist
Formed in Los Angeles in 1977, Ratt became a pioneering force in the glam metal scene that dominated the Sunset Strip throughout the 1980s. The classic lineup featured Stephen Pearcy (vocals), Robbin Crosby (guitar), Warren DeMartini (guitar), Juan Croucier (bass), and Bobby Blotzer (drums). Their sound combined heavy guitar riffs with catchy melodies, often referred to as "sleaze rock" or "hair metal" due to their distinctive image.
Ratt quickly gained a reputation for their energetic live performances and their knack for writing arena-ready anthems. Out of the Cellar launched them into stardom, establishing them as one of the most successful bands of their era.
Chart Performance
"Round and Round" was a significant commercial success for Ratt, playing a pivotal role in the band's breakthrough. The single peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, a remarkable achievement for a hard rock band at the time. It also reached number 4 on the Billboard Top Rock Tracks chart, solidifying its status as a rock radio staple.
The parent album, Out of the Cellar, also performed exceptionally well, climbing to number 15 on the Billboard 200 album chart. The album went on to sell over three million copies in the U.S. alone, achieving triple platinum status, largely propelled by the strength and popularity of "Round and Round".
Cultural Impact
The music video for "Round and Round" is arguably as iconic as the song itself, playing a crucial role in establishing Ratt's image and contributing to the visual language of '80s glam metal. Directed by Wayne Isham, the video famously features legendary comedian Milton Berle in a dual role. Berle plays both himself and an elderly woman who is startled by the band's loud music, leading to comical interactions that juxtapose Ratt's rebellious energy with old-school entertainment.
The video perfectly captures the excess and theatricality of the era, showcasing the band's big hair, flashy attire, and confident stage presence. Its high rotation on MTV was instrumental in exposing Ratt to a wider audience, turning them into household names and helping to define the look and feel of hard rock music videos of the decade. The blend of humor, performance, and memorable visuals made it an unforgettable piece of 1980s pop culture.
Fun Facts
- The appearance of Milton Berle in the video was reportedly secured because his nephew, Marshall Berle, was Ratt's manager at the time.
- The "old lady" character played by Berle was rumored to be his wife, Joyce Berle, but it was indeed Milton himself in drag.
- The video features a surreal party atmosphere with various characters, including a butler who seems unfazed by the chaos, adding to the comedic tone.
- The mansion used for the video shoot was a real house in Los Angeles, which became a popular location for music videos during that era.
- The director, Wayne Isham, became a prolific music video director, known for his work with many rock and metal bands throughout the '80s and '90s, including Mötley Crüe, Bon Jovi, and Metallica.