Ratt Out of the Cage: A Closer Look at “Round and Round”

Spinning Through the Legacy of Ratt

When it comes to glam metal and the 80s hard rock scene, Ratt stands tall as one of the pioneers in the genre. Formed in 1976, the band originally consisted of vocalist Stephen Pearcy, guitarist Robbin Crosby, guitarist Warren DeMartini, bassist Juan Croucier, and drummer Bobby Blotzer. Ratt’s iconic hit “Round and Round” is one that continues to resonate through generations of rock fans, leaving an indelible mark on the history of heavy metal music.

“Round and Round” was released in 1984 as the first single from Ratt’s debut album titled “Out of the Cellar.” The song showcases the band’s energetic and dynamic performance, featuring a catchy melody, powerful riffs, and Pearcy’s gritty, raspy vocals. Written by Pearcy and Crosby, “Round and Round” reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at number 7 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The music video for the song also gained notoriety, with its unique concept and cameo appearance of Milton Berle, who was the uncle of Ratt’s then-manager Marshall Berle.

Over the years, Ratt has gone through numerous lineup changes, with lead vocalist Stephen Pearcy being the only original member remaining. The ups and downs with member departures and additions have created inconsistency in Ratt’s sound and performances – an unfortunate downside to the band’s long-lasting legacy. However, the current lineup includes Pearcy on vocals, Jordan Ziff on guitar, Chris Sanders on guitar, Robbie Crane on bass, and Pete Holmes on drums.

Despite the multiple changes in personnel, Ratt has been successful in maintaining a devoted fan base and the band members’ contributions to the metal genre have not gone unnoticed. Ratt has sold over 20 million albums worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. In 2017, the band’s highly influential album “Out of the Cellar” was ranked number 33 on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time.”

In conclusion, while Ratt has had its fair share of ups and downs throughout the years, the band’s contribution to the world of heavy metal music, especially with their iconic hit “Round and Round,” cannot be overstated. The song continues to be a symbol of the 80s glam metal scene, and Ratt’s influence on the genre remains undeniable. Despite any criticism that may have been directed towards the band, their lasting legacy is a testament to the power of music and its ability to bring people together.

Charting the Success of a Hair Metal Anthem

“Round and Round” was released as a single on March 27, 1984, and quickly garnered attention in the rock and metal community. It would go on to become one of Ratt’s biggest hits, and for good reason – the catchy, hard-hitting song is a prime example of the hair metal genre that was so popular in the 1980s.

Upon its release, “Round and Round” made a significant impact on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song made its debut on the chart at position #78 on April 28th, 1984, and continued to climb steadily in the following weeks. It peaked at an impressive #12 on July 7th, 1984, where it remained for two consecutive weeks. The song’s success on the chart was undoubtedly bolstered by its accompanying music video, which received frequent airplay on MTV during the network’s early years.

In addition to its Hot 100 success, “Round and Round” also made waves on other Billboard charts. It reached #5 on the Top Rock Tracks chart and was ranked #61 on the year-end chart for 1984. The song’s success helped propel Ratt’s debut album, “Out of the Cellar,” to significant commercial success, with the album eventually going triple platinum in the United States.

As with many classic rock and metal tracks, “Round and Round” has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to its inclusion in films and TV shows such as “The Wrestler” and “Stranger Things.” This renewed visibility has introduced the song to a whole new generation of fans, ensuring its place as a quintessential hair metal anthem for years to come.

Dissecting the Lyrics: A Deeper Look

Diving into the lyrics of “Round and Round” by Ratt, we can sense a theme of love, lust, and the cyclical nature of life, relationships, and even the music scene itself. The song, released in 1984, is a prime example of the glam metal era, when bands like Ratt dominated the airwaves with their catchy hooks, over-the-top fashion, and unapologetic attitude.

The lyrics paint a picture of youthful rebellion, where the protagonist is seeking a connection with a potential lover on the streets (“Out on the streets, that’s where we’ll meet”). This sets the stage for a passionate, albeit fleeting, encounter, reflecting the hedonistic spirit of the time. The chorus, “Round and round, what comes around goes around,” alludes to the transient nature of these relationships, as well as the cyclical patterns of music trends and what was popular at the time.

Furthermore, the line “Like Romeo to Juliet, time and time, I’m gonna make you mine” serves as a nod to the classic tale of star-crossed lovers, perhaps suggesting an element of tragedy or the inevitability of the relationship’s end. It also underlines that the drive for love and connection is timeless and transcends generations.

Examining the lyrics within the context of the 1980s, it’s worth noting the social and cultural events that shaped the era – from the rise of MTV to the widespread use of drugs and the HIV/AIDS epidemic. These events created an atmosphere of both freedom and uncertainty, which is evident in the song’s lyrics as the characters seek connection and pleasure amid the chaos and unpredictability of their surroundings.

In conclusion, “Round and Round” is a quintessential glam metal anthem, encapsulating the spirit of the time and the emotions of a generation seeking love and excitement in a rapidly changing world.

The Visual Spectacle: Round and Round Music Video

The music video for “Round and Round” by Ratt, released in 1984, remains an important milestone not just for the band but also in the annals of 80s glam metal. Directed by the talented Don Letts, the video showcases the band’s energetic performance and unique style that became synonymous with the glam metal scene of the era. Don Letts, a renowned film director and musician, is known for his work with The Clash and Bob Marley & The Wailers, among others. His expertise in blending the world of music with visual storytelling is clearly evident in the “Round and Round” music video.

The video’s production values were quite impressive for the time, with a budget of approximately $50,000. This investment allowed the band to create a memorable and visually striking piece that would stand the test of time. Set in a lavish mansion, the video features the band performing in the attic, while a high-society dinner party takes place below. The juxtaposition of the rebellious rockers and the buttoned-up aristocrats creates a fun and intriguing dynamic throughout the video.

One of the most iconic moments in the “Round and Round” music video is when Ratt’s lead guitarist, Warren DeMartini, crashes through the ceiling, guitar in hand, and lands on the dinner table. This stunt, executed with precision and flair, solidified the band’s reputation for delivering electrifying performances both on and off the stage. It’s also worth noting that the dinner party guests included several well-known faces such as comedian Milton Berle, who appears in dual roles as the party’s stuffy host and a cross-dressing butler.

Besides the high-energy performance and the entertaining narrative, the artistic approach of the “Round and Round” music video also involves the use of special effects that were cutting-edge for the time. From pyrotechnics to the dramatic entrance of Ratt’s lead singer, Stephen Pearcy, the video is a feast for the eyes and a testament to the creative vision of Don Letts and the band.

Though the “Round and Round” music video is a product of its era, it continues to resonate with fans and music lovers alike. The video has even inspired various fan-made tributes and reenactments on YouTube, which further demonstrates its enduring appeal and lasting influence on the glam metal genre.

The Mastermind Behind the Music: Composer Warren DeMartini

Warren DeMartini, the lead guitarist for Ratt, is the skilled composer behind the catchy and iconic tune “Round and Round.” Born and raised in Chicago, Warren joined the band in 1982 and quickly made his mark with his exceptional guitar skills and songwriting prowess. Apart from “Round and Round,” DeMartini has contributed to an array of other notable tracks in Ratt’s discography. One such gem is “Lay It Down,” a single from their 1985 album “Invasion of Your Privacy,” which features DeMartini’s signature guitar riffs and memorable melodies that helped solidify Ratt’s place in the 80s glam metal scene. Additionally, DeMartini co-wrote “Way Cool Jr.,” a bluesy and groove-laden track from their 1988 album “Reach for the Sky,” further showcasing his versatility as a composer. With his impressive body of work, it’s no wonder Warren DeMartini is considered one of the driving forces behind Ratt’s success and enduring appeal.

Awards, Accolades, and Appearances

“Round and Round” has undoubtedly left its mark in the music industry, garnering numerous awards and accolades since its release. The song peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and spent 20 weeks on the chart, making it Ratt’s most successful single to date. It has also earned the band a gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 500,000 copies.

In addition to its commercial success, “Round and Round” has received critical acclaim and continues to be a celebrated anthem in the world of rock music. The song was ranked number 47 on VH1’s list of the “100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs,” and in 2018, it was mentioned in Billboard’s list of “The 50 Best Hair Metal Songs of All Time,” further solidifying its status as an iconic rock hit.

The song’s popularity has led to its inclusion in various forms of media. For instance, “Round and Round” was featured in the 2008 coming-of-age comedy film “The Wrestler,” directed by Darren Aronofsky, and starring Mickey Rourke. The song is also part of the soundtrack for the 2016 video game “Guitar Hero Live,” allowing players to rock out to Ratt’s timeless hit. Moreover, television audiences have been treated to the song’s infectious energy in episodes of popular series such as “Supernatural” and “Stranger Things.”

“Round and Round” has also inspired many cover versions by various artists over the years, showcasing the song’s undeniable impact on rock music. Some of the most notable covers include alternative rock band Orgy’s rendition, released in 2020, and a 2015 cover by the supergroup Kings of Chaos, featuring members of Guns N’ Roses, Mötley Crüe, and other prominent acts. Additionally, heavier renditions have been performed by metal bands such as L.A. Guns and Raven, demonstrating the song’s broad appeal across different sub-genres of rock.

Though this section has touched upon the various accomplishments and appearances of “Round and Round,” it’s essential to keep in mind that the song’s true legacy lies within its ability to captivate and electrify audiences, even decades after its initial release.

Diving into the Musical Anatomy

One of the most fascinating aspects of “Round and Round” is its musical structure, which blends elements of hard rock and glam metal into a captivating sonic experience. The song is written in the key of D Minor, lending it a somewhat darker and more intense feel as compared to songs written in major keys. The tempo clocks in at a lively 120 beats per minute (BPM), which adds to the song’s energetic and engaging nature.

As for the chord progression, “Round and Round” follows a fairly standard progression that is common in rock music, specifically i-IV-III-VII (Dm-Gm-C-A). The song kicks off with an iconic guitar riff that introduces the D Minor chord, which then seamlessly transitions into the verse. The verse primarily consists of the D Minor, G Minor, and C chords, but it also incorporates the A chord during the pre-chorus section. This particular progression gives the song a sense of movement and tension that is resolved when it circles back to the D Minor chord, effectively creating a sense of “round and round” as the title suggests.

The instrumentation of “Round and Round” is also worth noting. The song features a powerful blend of electric guitars, bass, and drums, which provide the driving force behind the track. The lead guitar work by Warren DeMartini is especially noteworthy, as it features intricate solos and melodic fills that showcase his technical prowess. Meanwhile, the rhythm guitar and bass work together to create a solid foundation that supports the song’s melodic structure.

The vocal performance by Stephen Pearcy is another key element of the song’s success. His raspy, aggressive vocal style perfectly complements the driving force of the music, adding an extra layer of intensity to the track. The harmony vocals during the chorus are also a nice touch, as they provide a contrast to Pearcy’s lead vocals and contribute to the song’s catchy, anthemic feel.

Lastly, it’s important to mention the song’s dynamic structure. “Round and Round” features a well-crafted arrangement that builds in intensity throughout the verse and pre-chorus, leading up to the explosive chorus. The song then briefly returns to a more subdued state during the bridge, before launching into the final chorus and outro. This dynamic ebb and flow not only keeps the listener engaged, but also adds to the song’s overall impact.

In conclusion, “Round and Round” by Ratt is a masterfully crafted track that showcases the band’s talent for blending hard rock and glam metal elements into a captivating and memorable song. The intricate musical structure, engaging chord progression, and powerful instrumentation all come together to create a truly unforgettable listening experience.