Ratt’s “Round And Round” 7″ Single: A Deep Dive into the Glam Rock Classic
Published on October 6, 2024
In the vibrant world of glam rock, few bands stand out as prominently as Ratt, particularly with their iconic hit “Round And Round.” With the momentum they gained from their self-titled EP, Ratt signed a deal with Atlantic Records that paved the way for their groundbreaking debut album, ‘Out of the Cellar.’ Released on March 27, 1984, the album debuted during the height of MTV’s influence, catapulting the band to fame. However, it was the early release of “Round and Round” on February 19, 1984, that first introduced fans to Ratt’s signature sound.
Recently, while scouring through D&J Records in Florida during a vacation, I stumbled upon a copy of this classic single. It’s a standard US pressing, but I was particularly drawn to the striking cover featuring a close-up of Tawny Kitaen, reminiscent of the album art but with a compelling twist. Coincidentally, I also found another Ratt single, which I will discuss next week.
On the A-side of this single, “Round And Round” reigns supreme as Ratt’s most celebrated track. The song’s infectious energy captures listeners from the start and ascended to #12 on the Billboard Hot 100. Rolling Stone even recognized it as one of the greatest heavy metal songs, ranking it at #20 on their list of the 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Songs of All Time in 2023. It’s worth pondering whether its sustained popularity can be tied to its frequent appearances in Geico Insurance commercials. The music video was a cultural phenomenon too, capturing the attention of audiences thanks to its quirky visuals and the appearance of comedy legend Milton Berle, who donned drag in the video. Directed partly due to the influence of his nephew, Marshall Berle, who managed Ratt, the video features unforgettable moments, including guitarist Warren DeMartini’s sensational solo after dramatically falling through a floor.
Musically, “Round And Round” delivers the quintessential glam rock experience: a catchy chorus, a raunchy vibe, and a fast-paced guitar solo, all bursting with the life of Los Angeles’ Sunset Strip scene.
On the flip side, the B-side track “The Morning After” packs a punch with an electrifying guitar riff right from the start. This high-energy number is another testament to Ratt’s rock prowess, marked by its catchy lyrics and an explosive guitar solo that leaves a lasting impression. The line “Say bye, bye” right before the solo showcases Ratt’s signature sleaze and charm.
Thus concludes my exploration of this exceptional Ratt single discovered during my vacation. Stay tuned for next week when I delve into the second single I found.
