"On With The Show" by Motley Crue

Despite their familiarity and string of hits in the 80s, Motley Crue has not achieved as much chart success as you may think. They've only had two showings in the top 10, both from their smash album, "Dr. Feelgood," from 1989. The title track gave the band their biggest hit, landing at #6, while the sappy ballad "Without You" peaked at #8. Much better tunes like "Kickstart My Heart," "Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)" (my personal favorite), and "Same Ol' Situation (S.O.S.)" reached #27, #19, and #78, respectively.

Honestly, at this time, virtually any band with a huge supply of Aqua-Net and lyrics that denigrated women could land themselves a top 10 hit. Motley Crue was practicing for this moment since they first appeared on the chart in 1984 when "Looks That Kill" climbed to #54. "Dr. Feelgood" was a hard-earned accomplishment that they sadly could not sustain. After a re-recording of "Home Sweet Home" (the band's greatest ballad) reached #37 in 1991, the band has yet to get back on the chart. Of course, Vince Neil leaving the band in 1992 didn't help. Replacement singer John Corabi failed to connect with fans, and the band lost too much of their momentum for a comeback after Neil rejoined them in 1997.

In addition to their time in the Crue, several members have had notable side projects. Neil achieved short-lived success as a solo artist, bassist Nikki Sixx formed Sixx A.M., and drummer Tommy Lee even stepped up to the mic for some solo work.

"On With The Show" goes back to the band's first album, a raw and in-your-face effort that sounds more like demo compared to their high-gloss cock rock that would follow. With this underrated tune, you can hear the smart sense of melody poking its head above the noise, an instinct that would eventually lead the band to their most beloved hits. If you're looking for something more recent, I'd recommend you check out "Kiss The Sky" from the 1997 "Generation Swine" record.