It may be a stretch to call an eighties hair band that sold millions of records underrated, but look closely: White Lion fits the profile. Despite going all-in with a glam look and cheese-filled videos, there was actual music being played. Listen to the guitars and drums, and for heaven’s sake, don’t look directly into their eyes!

White Lion was formed in Copenhagen in 1983 by Danish lead singer Mike Tramp and American guitarist Vito Bratta. After recruiting an initial bass player and drummer, they were quickly replaced by Dave Spitz and former Anthrax drummer, Greg D’Angelo. Spitz split for Black Sabbath and was replaced by James LoMenzo. The “classic” lineup of White Lion was set with Tramp, Bratta, D’Angelo, and LoMenzo.

In 1984 the band recorded ‘Fight to Survive’ in Japan via RCA Records. The album charted to 151 on The Billboard 200. It wasn’t until early 1987 when the band was signed by Atlantic Records and their album ‘Pride’ was released. The album and initial single, “Wait”, did not initially draw much of a response. During this time the band toured with Frehley’s Comet, Aerosmith, Ozzy Osbourne, Stryper, Kiss, and AC/DC. Finally, it was during their tour with AC/DC that “Wait” charted due to heavy video rotation at MTV. The single would eventually hit number 8, the album number 11, and go on to sell over 2 million copies. The second video “Tell Me” was released and then soon after their third single, the heart-string-pulling single “When the Children Cry” was released. The power ballad would make it all the way to number 3 on the charts. In addition to the album success, Vito Bratta received Best New Guitarist awards with both Guitar World and Guitar for the Practicing Musician magazines.

The video for “Wait” starts slowly and in black and white. Is this a ballad? To this day I’m not sure. Slow motion movements, hair tossing, and makeup is at an all time high, still, I’m unable to determine if this was a ballad or “rocker.” Overall, it is VERY difficult to watch this video and listen to the song. Fact: Jean Jacket sales rose 20 percent after this video was aired on TV. (Note: Not actual fact.) For me, the climax of this video is when Tramp is singing into the mirror.

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