3 Best One-Hit Wonders of the Hair Metal Era

2025-08-05

Autograph the rock band.

In honor of three bands that had huge hits in the 1980s, Audio Ink Radio presents its tally of three hair metal one-hit wonders. – Author: Charles Ken, Courtesy photo of Autograph

The hair metal era of the 1980s brought blockbuster bands such as Motley Crue, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard and Poison. There’s no denying that this music is really fun and makes for the perfect party playlist. All of those bands had multiple hits and they ruled the radio and popular culture in the 1980s.

But, not every blockbuster band from the hair metal era had multiple hits. There are certainly some bands from the genre that had one huge hit and other success, but nothing quite as big as their first big hit. So, one could them them one-hit wonder bands, even if they’ve had plenty of success since the ’80s. It was a rare thing, too, because very few glam metal or hair metal bands were really one-hitters.

In honor of three bands that had huge hits in the 1980s, Audio Ink Radio presents its tally of three hair metal one-hit wonders.

One-Hit Wonders of the Hair Metal Genre

“Turn Up the Radio” by Autograph

“Turn Up the Radio” is one of the greatest songs out of the hair metal era. It’s just a fun song that, well, makes you want to truly turn up the radio. It’s a song that doesn’t get old, too. When putting together a playlist with music from the 1980s, this one is a sure bet to include. Autograph went on to have more success over the years, and they’ve even been making music up until today, but they’ll always be known for “Autograph.” That’s not a bad thing, because what’s wrong with being known for having a fantastic song that everyone loves?

“Rock and Roll (Is Gonna Set the Night on Fire)” by Pretty Boy Floyd

In 1989, right before the hair metal era died off and made way for the grunge movement to move in, Pretty Boy Floyd created a masterpiece in “Rock and Roll (Is Gonna Set the Night on Fire).” It was the perfect snapshot of the era and really summed up what this movement was all about. It ended up being a big chart-topper for Pretty Boy Floyd and almost sounds like it could have been on Motley Crue’s debut album, “Too Fast for Love.” It’s got those big hooks, flashy 1980s production and wild lyrics that are indicative of the era. The song also has an incredible guitar solo from Kristy “Krash” Majors that could rival any of the big guitar solos from that era.

Kix, “Don’t Close Your Eyes”

Who says hair metal was only about partying and girls? Kix showed the serious side of the genre, which was admittedly pretty rare to see, with their 1988 hit, “Don’t Close Your Eyes.” This is one of the greatest ballads from the decade and really doesn’t get the attention it deserves. But, it was a massive hit for Kix and when people think of that band, they often think of this song. It’s a heartbreaking song with a strong message.

Also check out Audio Ink Radio’s feature on the best album of the hair metal era.

Charles Ken
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Posted by Charles Ken | Features, Music, Rock