10 Overlooked Rock Bands of the 80s Everyone Should Know

The 1980s were one of the golden eras for rock music, a time when the genre exploded with a diversity of styles, from glam to hard rock, and everything in between. While many bands from this era became household names, others slipped through the cracks of mainstream recognition despite having considerable talent and producing some incredible music. Here’s a look at ten rock bands from the 80s that didn’t always get the limelight they deserved but certainly merit a listen.

1. The Georgia Satellites

Known for their gritty sound and Southern rock vibes, The Georgia Satellites burst onto the scene with their hit “Keep Your Hands to Yourself” but unfortunately, they often get overlooked. They managed to blend rock’n’roll with a country twang in a way that made their music irresistible and fun. Their albums are filled with catchy riffs and straightforward lyrics, embodying the spirit of rock music in its purest form.

Even though they had a few other songs that gained some attention, they never quite managed to achieve the same level of success. It’s a shame because their music had a raw, authentic quality that’s hard to find. Their work represents a celebration of the simplicity and joy of rock’n’roll.

2. Faster Pussycat

Faster Pussycat took on the glam rock scene with a sleazy, raw edge that set them apart from their contemporaries. Their music dripped with the vibe of the Sunset Strip, full of rebellion and raunchy guitar riffs. They had a knack for creating hook-laden tracks that should have earned them a bigger spot in the rock history books.

Their live performances were notorious for their energy and erratic nature, making each show unforgettable. The band had a gritty charm and a devil-may-care attitude that encapsulated the glam rock ethos. Despite their talent and unique sound, Faster Pussycat often gets overshadowed by bigger bands from the same era.

3. Junkyard

Junkyard combined hard rock with punk, creating a sound that was both edgy and accessible. They were gritty, unapologetic, and their music was a melting pot of influences that made it stand out. Lyrics about hard living and the underdog’s struggle resonated with those who felt left out of the mainstream ‘80s glitz.

Their self-titled debut album received critical acclaim but didn’t quite catch on with the larger public. It’s unfortunate because Junkyard had a rawness and authenticity that was compelling. Their music was devoid of the decade’s typical excesses, focusing instead on solid rock tunes.

4. Kix

Kix brought an infectious energy to the rock scene of the 80s, with catchy melodies and a dynamic stage presence. They were about more than just the music; attending a Kix show was an experience, a party that everyone was invited to. Their hit “Don’t Close Your Eyes” showed a softer side and demonstrated their versatility.

Despite their ability to churn out both ballads and up-tempo rockers, Kix didn’t quite break into the upper echelons of rock stardom. It’s a bit of a mystery, as their music encapsulates the fun and excitement of 80s rock, making them a band that certainly deserves more recognition.

5. Dangerous Toys

Hailing from Texas, Dangerous Toys brought a Southern flavor to their brand of hard rock. They had a bit of a wild streak, with lyrics that often ventured into the territory of the macabre, but it was all part of their charm. Their self-titled debut album showcased a band that knew how to rock hard while still having a good time.

What made them stand out was their ability to blend melody with metal in a way that was both accessible and powerful. Despite their ability to get crowds moving and the critical praise they received, Dangerous Toys remained largely under the radar. Their music is a treasure trove for those willing to dig a bit deeper into the era’s rock scene.

6. Love/Hate

Love/Hate offered something a little different with their music. They had a funky undercurrent to their rock sound, not afraid to experiment with different styles and influences. This eclecticism made their albums interesting listens, as you were never quite sure what you were going to get.

Yet, for all their innovation and catchy tunes, Love/Hate struggled to find a wide audience. It’s unfortunate because they were a band that truly represented the spirit of the times, unafraid to take risks and break away from the typical rock formula. Their music remains an undiscovered gem for many rock enthusiasts.

7. Bang Tango

Bang Tango blended elements of funk, blues, and hard rock, creating a unique sound that set them apart from other bands of the era. Their music was full of groovy basslines, soulful vocals, and guitar work that ranged from smooth to searing. They were a band that could get you dancing one minute and headbanging the next.

Despite the infectious nature of their music, Bang Tango never quite hit the mainstream in a big way. They had a flair and originality that warranted a broader fan base, demonstrating just how diverse the rock genre can be.

8. L.A. Guns

L.A. Guns were part of the Los Angeles rock scene that exploded in the ’80s. They had the look, the attitude, and the songs to become major stars. Their music was a cocktail of fast-paced rock’n’roll and sultry ballads, appealing to a wide array of listeners.

While they had some success and a devoted following, L.A. Guns often get overshadowed by the bigger bands of their time. However, their music has stood the test of time, offering catchy, well-crafted rock tunes that deserve a spot on any rock lover’s playlist.

9. Britny Fox

Britny Fox carried the torch for glam metal with their big hair, catchy hooks, and anthemic choruses. The Philadelphia-based band had an exuberance and a knack for crafting songs that were instant crowd-pleasers. Their look and sound were quintessentially ’80s, embodying the excess and excitement of the era.

Despite a strong start and a couple of hits, Britny Fox’s star faded quickly, leaving them as somewhat of a footnote in the vast annals of rock music. It’s a pity because their music captured the fun and flamboyance of 80s rock, deserving of a second look from today’s listeners.

10. Tesla

Tesla stood out from the crowd with their bluesy approach to hard rock. Eschewing the spandex and makeup that characterized many of their contemporaries, they focused on solid musicianship and songwriting. Tesla’s music had depth and a timeless quality, evidenced by hits like “Love Song” and “Modern Day Cowboy.”

Though they enjoyed a degree of success and respect within rock circles, Tesla often didn’t receive the wider recognition they deserved. Their down-to-earth style and focus on the music rather than the image made them one of the era’s most underrated bands.