L.A. Guns | History of the Band
Masters of Los Angeles's Sleaze Rock Sound, from Punk-Infused Glam to Melodic Hard Rock
Formation
Emerging from the fervor of Los Angeles' music scene, L.A. Guns was born in 1983, founded by guitarist Tracii Guns. The band quickly became integral to the glam metal movement, embodying the sleaze and swagger of Hollywood's Sunset Strip. Tracii Guns' role in the early days of Guns N' Roses is a fascinating subplot in the story of 80s metal. Although his time with Guns N' Roses was brief, it was crucial in shaping the early sound and direction of what would become one of rock's most legendary bands. This intersection between L.A. Guns and Guns N' Roses is a testament to the interconnectedness and creative fluidity of the Los Angeles music scene during this era.
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Musical Style and Evolution
L.A. Guns epitomized the "sleaze rock" genre with a sound that fused hard rock's intensity with glam metal's theatrics. Their style evolved from their early days' raw, punk-infused energy to a more polished and melodic approach, reflecting the band's adaptability and growth within the changing musical landscape.
Notable 80s Albums
"L.A. Guns" (1988): The band's debut album, released by Vertigo Records, showcased their gritty yet melodic style. Featuring tracks like "Sex Action" and "Electric Gypsy," the album cemented L.A. Guns' place in rock history. Notably, the album included contributions from Paul Black, who played a significant role in the band's early songwriting. The album exemplified the band's immediate impact by peaking at #50 on the Billboard 200 and achieving Gold status in the United States.
"Cocked & Loaded" (1989): This album marked a pivotal moment for L.A. Guns, elevating them to new heights within the rock domain. Released by Polygram Records, "Cocked & Loaded" is home to the band's most iconic single, "The Ballad of Jayne," which propelled the band into the mainstream spotlight. This track, alongside "Rip and Tear" and "Never Enough," highlighted the band's ability to blend hard-hitting rock with emotionally charged ballads. This duality became a hallmark of their sound. The album's success was reflected in its peak at #38 on the Billboard 200 and its eventual certification as Gold, then Platinum, underscoring its significant impact and enduring popularity within the rock and glam metal scenes.
"Hollywood Vampires" (1991): Following the triumph of "Cocked & Loaded," L.A. Guns continued their momentum with "Hollywood Vampires," an album that delved deeper into the band's gritty, streetwise persona. Released under Polydor Records, this album encapsulated the darker and more introspective side of L.A. Guns, featuring tracks that narrated tales of decadence, love, and loss within the neon-lit backdrop of Hollywood. Notable singles like "Kiss My Love Goodbye" and "It's Over Now" demonstrated the band's range, from hard rock anthems to poignant ballads. "Hollywood Vampires" resonated well with fans, peaking at #42 on the Billboard 200.
Influence and Legacy
The story of L.A. Guns and their contributions to the music world didn't stop as the calendars turned away from the 1980s. The band's trajectory through the 1990s and beyond is marked by a series of albums that, while they might not have captured the commercial success of their early works, demonstrated their resilience and adaptability to the changing musical landscape.
Tracii Guns, a foundational member of L.A. Guns, ventured beyond the band's borders. Guns participated in the supergroup Contraband in the early '90s, showcasing his versatility and connections within the rock community. His role in the formation of the supergroup Brides of Destruction in the early 2000s alongside Mötley Crüe's Nikki Sixx and subsequent projects like Tracii Guns' League of Gentlemen highlight his ability to navigate and contribute to various rock subgenres, from hard rock to blues rock.
In 2016, a notable reunion took place as Tracii Guns and Phil Lewis, L.A. Guns' most recognizable vocalist, reunited under the L.A. Guns banner. This reformation led to the release of "The Missing Peace" in 2017, an album that was met with critical acclaim and seen as a solid return to form for the band. Adding new members, such as guitarist Michael Grant, brought a rejuvenated energy to the band's music, blending the classic L.A. Guns sound with a contemporary edge.
The L.A. Guns story, particularly the legal battles involving Tracii Guns, Phil Lewis, and Steve Riley, showcases the complexities of band dynamics and trademark issues. Two versions of L.A. Guns existed simultaneously, leading to disputes over the rightful use of the band's name. Guns and Lewis argued that Riley's use of the L.A. Guns name was unauthorized, alleging financial misconduct and contesting his claim to the band's trademark. These disagreements culminated in legal action to establish Guns as the sole owner of the L.A. Guns trademark, preventing Riley and his associates from using the name and logo.
Steve Riley passed away on October 24, 2023, at the age of 67, after battling a severe case of pneumonia. Riley's career spanned several decades and also included stints with Keel, W.A.S.P..
The legacy of L.A. Guns, enriched by the band's continuous evolution and the diverse projects of its members, particularly Tracii Guns, stands as a testament to their undying relevance in the rock genre. Despite the shifts in musical tastes and industry dynamics, their ability to adapt, evolve, and influence ensures that L.A. Guns remains a significant figure in the story of rock music.
Their influence extends beyond their discography, impacting fans, musicians, and the broader music industry. The band's journey through lineup changes, genre shifts, and the ups and downs of the music business highlights their resilience and commitment to their craft. As L.A. Guns continues to tour and produce new music, their legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring power of rock 'n' roll and its capacity to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing musical landscape.
Sources
Wikipedia
Blabbermouth.net
Loudwire
The Famous People