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Band Timeline
1973-1982
Early formation and band evolution
Ratt originated in Hollywood in 1973 under the name Firedome, founded by Stephen Pearcy. After brief disbanding and reformations with different names, including Crystal Pystal and Mickey Ratt, the band underwent multiple lineup changes. By 1982, they shortened the name to Ratt and solidified a key lineup including Pearcy, Robbin Crosby, Warren DeMartini, Juan Croucier, and Bobby Blotzer. These early years involved recording demos and performing in the Los Angeles club circuit to build a fan base.
1983
Signed with Time Coast Music and released debut EP
In 1983, Ratt signed with Time Coast Music, managed by Marshall Berle, marking their entry into broader commercial recognition. They released a self-titled EP that sold over 100,000 copies and increased their popularity on the Los Angeles club circuit. The EP included the single 'You Think You're Tough,' co-written by Pearcy and Crosby, which received radio airplay and helped establish their presence in the glam metal scene.
1984
Breakthrough with 'Out of the Cellar' album
Ratt released their debut full-length album, 'Out of the Cellar,' in March 1984 under Atlantic Records. The album received positive critical and fan acclaim for its blend of bluesy vocals and twin lead guitar pyrotechnics by Crosby and DeMartini. It featured hit singles like 'Round and Round,' which reached number 12 on Billboard Top 40, solidifying their status as leaders in the Los Angeles glam metal scene.
1985
Release of 'Invasion of Your Privacy' and rising commercial success
Continuing their momentum, Ratt released the album 'Invasion of Your Privacy' in 1985. This album further cemented their popularity with singles such as 'Lay It Down.' During this period, their distinct glam metal style and energetic performances contributed significantly to the early 1980s Los Angeles metal scene alongside bands like Mötley Crüe.
1991
Departure of Robbin Crosby amid personal struggles
In 1991, Robbin Crosby was forced to leave Ratt due to severe heroin addiction that hampered his ability to perform. His departure marked a pivotal moment for the band as Crosby was a vital part of their sound and image. He was briefly replaced by Michael Schenker for touring purposes. This period also saw challenges as the glam metal genre was experiencing a decline in mainstream popularity.
1992
Stephen Pearcy leaves and band disbands
Lead vocalist Stephen Pearcy left Ratt in early 1992 to form a new supergroup called Arcade. His departure effectively led to Ratt's disbandment as the core members pursued different projects. This marked the end of the band's original momentum as glam metal's popularity waned with the rise of alternative rock and grunge in the early 1990s.
1996-2000
Reunion and lineup changes
Ratt reunited in 1996 with Pearcy, DeMartini, Blotzer, and new bassist Robbie Crane after plans for a full classic lineup revival failed. Guitarist Keri Kelli joined in 1999 for touring. However, in January 2000, Pearcy departed abruptly before a tour, leading to the replacement by Jizzy Pearl as vocalist and John Corabi on guitar. These changes reflected ongoing struggles to regain their past commercial success amid shifting rock music trends.
2002
Death of Robbin Crosby
Robbin Crosby died on June 6, 2002, after suffering complications from HIV and a heroin overdose. Crosby's death was a tragic closure to his troubled history with the band and was deeply felt by fans and band members alike. His contributions to Ratt's sound and prominence in the glam metal scene remained influential.
2007
Stephen Pearcy's return and classic lineup reunions
In 2007, Stephen Pearcy returned to Ratt for tour dates, marking a reunion of the classic lineup members after years of separation. This return revitalized interest in the band and led to touring activity and new recordings, appealing to long-time fans and introducing their music to a new generation.
2010
Release of 'Infestation', final studio album
Ratt released their first new studio album in 11 years, 'Infestation,' in April 2010. The album was well-received and featured the classic lineup delivering their signature glam metal style that originally made them famous. It represented a successful return to the recording scene and a reaffirmation of their legacy within hard rock and metal genres.
2012-2021
Ongoing activity with lineup changes and tours
Between 2012 and 2021, Ratt continued touring sporadically with multiple lineup changes, including departures and returns of original members as well as integration of new musicians. Despite extended breaks, the band maintained a presence through live performances and occasional new material, honoring their place in glam metal history.
2022
Band goes on hiatus
As of 2022, Ratt has been on hiatus. The lineup at this point included original vocalist Stephen Pearcy, bassist Juan Croucier, lead guitarist Jordan Ziff, drummer Pete Holmes, and rhythm guitarist Frankie Lindia. This pause in activity marks a current chapter of uncertainty but also reflects the band's long legacy and continuing fan support.
Albums
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Members
Current
Name
Begin
Occupation
Stephen Pearcy
2016
Lead vocals
Stacey Blades
N/A
Warren DeMartini
2016
Guitar
Jimmy DeGrasso
2016
Drums (drum set)
Juan Croucier
2016
Bass guitar
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
Juan Croucier
2012
2014
Bass guitar
Marq Torien
1982
1982
Electric guitar
John Corabi
2000
2008
Electric guitar
Background vocals
Juan Croucier
1982
1992
Bass guitar
Stephen Pearcy
1996
2000
Lead vocals
Carlos Cavazo
2016
2018
Electric guitar
Keri Kelli
1999
2000
Electric guitar
Robbin Crosby
1982
1991
Electric guitar
Stephen Pearcy
1973
1992
Lead vocals
Stephen Pearcy
2006
2014
Lead vocals
Scott Griffin
2015
2016
Bass guitar
Warren DeMartini
1996
2014
Guitar
Joey Cristofanilli
1983
1983
Bass guitar
Carlos Cavazo
2008
2014
Electric guitar
Jizzy Pearl
2000
2006
Lead vocals
Bobby Blotzer
1982
1992
Drums (drum set)
Bobby Blotzer
1996
2014
Drums (drum set)
Robbie Crane
1997
2012
Bass guitar
Warren DeMartini
1981
1992
Guitar
Bobby Blotzer
2015
2016
Drums (drum set)
Chris Hager
1976
1981
Electric guitar
Jake E. Lee
1980
1981
Electric guitar
Story of Ratt
RATT (stylized as RATT), the iconic American glam metal band, ruled the 1980s. Their albums achieved multi-platinum status, cementing their place in music history. The bands infectious hits, including the Billboard Top 40 smashes "Round and Round" (#12) and "Lay It Down" (#40), along with anthems like "Wanted Man," "Youre in Love," and "Dance," became staples of the era. Shoulder-to-shoulder with rivals like Mötley Crüe, RATT was pivotal in shaping the explosive Los Angeles glam metal scene—also known as hair metal or pop metal—of the early 1980s.
Though they continued touring and recording sporadically from the 1990s to 2021, enduring numerous lineup changes and extended hiatuses, their final studio album, Infestation, dropped in April 2010.
Early Years (1973-1982):
RATT`s story begins in 1973 Hollywood with the band Firedome, formed by vocalist Stephen Pearcy and friends. After Firedome disbanded in 1974, Pearcy formed Crystal Pystal, later evolving into Mickey Ratt in 1976, finally shortened to Ratt in 1977, setting the stage for their legendary rise.
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