The Controversial Career of Ratt: A Look at Their Rise and Fall

Ratt has been rocking the music scene since 1983, having achieved success with their classic hits like “Round and Round” and “Wanted Man”. Despite being one of the most successful glam metal acts in the 80s, Ratt has also experienced its share of controversy and criticism over the years, from breakups to internal legal disputes. Regardless, this band continues to draw in fans that appreciate both their catchy tunes and edgier lyrics. In this blog post we will take an in-depth look at both some of the negative aspects of Ratt's career as well as why they still remain so popular today.

For those who grew up in the 80s, Ratt’s music was a staple on the radio and in many teenagers’ cassette tapes. But behind their catchy tunes and wild persona lies a band that has faced their fair share of controversies and criticisms. From internal disputes to legal battles, their journey to success has been far from smooth. Despite all this, however, they have remained a favorite among many metalheads and music fans. In this blog post, we dive deeper into Ratt’s career and explore both the good and the bad.

Ratt’s rise to fame began in 1983, with the release of their debut album “Out of the Cellar”. The album was a commercial success, featuring catchy hits like “Round and Round” and “Back for More”. The band’s blend of hard rock and metal, along with their distinctive look, appealed to a generation of music fans hungry for something new and exciting.

However, it wasn’t long before Ratt started to experience some backlash. Critics accused them of relying too heavily on image and not enough on musical substance. There were also rumors of tension and disagreements within the band, which would only escalate as time went on. In 1992, Ratt disbanded, with some members going on to create new projects and others fading into obscurity.

Despite the breakup, Ratt’s legacy continued to live on. Many of their songs, particularly from their early years, remain popular and are still played on classic rock radio stations. When the band reunited in 1996, they found a new generation of fans eager to hear their music. They continued to tour and release new albums over the years, with varying degrees of success.

However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Ratt. In 2000, the band was embroiled in a legal battle over the rights to their name, with former members accusing lead singer Stephen Pearcy and guitarist Warren DeMartini of trademark infringement. The case was eventually settled out of court, but it added to the band’s reputation as a group rife with in-fighting and drama.

Despite all the controversies and criticisms, Ratt’s music continues to be beloved by many. Their catchy hooks and edgy lyrics defined a generation, and their impact on the rock music scene cannot be denied. While their journey to success may not have been perfect, their ability to persevere and continue making music for over three decades is a testament to their dedication and talent. Love them or hate them, there’s no denying that Ratt will always be a part of the history of rock and roll.