DanaHaynes's Music Collectibles 1-21 LA Guns
L.A. Guns is an American hard rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1983, known for their blend of glam metal, hard rock, and punk influences. The band was originally founded by guitarist Tracii Guns, who was also a founding member of Guns N' Roses, and vocalist Phil Lewis, who joined the band in 1987, completing the classic lineup. L.A. Guns quickly became a key part of the Sunset Strip scene, a hotbed of glam metal bands during the mid-'80s. Their self-titled debut album (1988) and its follow-up, Cocked & Loaded (1989), produced hits like “Ballad of Jayne” and “Never Enough,” which helped establish them as one of the leading bands in the glam metal genre. With their mix of hard-edged riffs, catchy hooks, and gritty lyrics, L.A. Guns gained a strong fanbase in the late '80s and early '90s.
Throughout the years, L.A. Guns experienced numerous lineup changes, but Tracii Guns remained a constant force in the band, often leading various incarnations of the group. Despite facing challenges, including the rise of grunge and the decline of glam metal in the early '90s, L.A. Guns continued to record and tour, maintaining a loyal following with albums like Vicious Circle (1994) and Hollywood Forever (2012). While their commercial success never matched the height of some of their contemporaries, L.A. Guns remains an influential band in the hard rock and glam metal scenes, known for their relentless energy, gritty sound, and a strong presence in the live music circuit. Their longevity, despite changing musical trends, reflects their commitment to their signature sound and the enduring appeal of their music to rock fans around the world.
