The Wild Rise of Mötley Crüe: A Look at Their Early History
Explore the chaotic early years of Mötley Crüe, one of the most infamous and influential glam metal bands of the 1980s.
The Formation of a Crue (1981)
Mötley Crüe was formed in early 1981 in Los Angeles by bassist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee. Seeking to create a band that fused glam rock style with heavy metal power, they soon recruited guitarist Mick Mars and frontman Vince Neil. With a shared ambition to dominate the rock scene, the four musicians quickly developed a sound and image that stood out from their peers.
The Band Name and Iconic Glam Metal Look
The name Mötley Crüe originated from a phrase Mick Mars once used to describe a former band as a “motley looking crew.” They added the umlauts as a nod to bands like Motörhead. From the start, their appearance—teased hair, leather, makeup, and spikes—was a deliberate attempt to capture attention and create a strong visual identity in the bustling LA rock scene.
Too Fast for Love: DIY Rock and Roll Grit
In late 1981, Mötley Crüe independently released their debut album, Too Fast for Love, on Leathür Records. The album’s raw energy and edgy lyrics attracted a growing local following. Eventually, Elektra Records signed the band and re-released the album in 1982, pushing Mötley Crüe into the national spotlight.
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For a more complete review of Motley Crue’s first album, Too Fast for Love be sure to read our review here |
Live Shows and Off-Stage Infamy
Mötley Crüe became infamous not just for their music, but also for their outrageous stage shows filled with pyrotechnics, rotating drum kits, and intense theatricality. Off-stage, they were just as wild—partying hard, getting into trouble, and living up to their reputation as rock’s most notorious bad boys.
Breakthrough with Shout at the Devil (1983)
In 1983, the band released their breakthrough album Shout at the Devil, which featured a darker, heavier sound. Songs like “Looks That Kill” and “Too Young to Fall in Love” became hits, and their satanic-inspired imagery stirred controversy—only fueling their fame. The album went multi-platinum and helped define the glam metal genre.
Substance Abuse and Internal Chaos
Despite—or perhaps because of—their success, the early years of Mötley Crüe were plagued by heavy drug and alcohol use. Nikki Sixx’s heroin addiction and the group’s wild lifestyle nearly tore them apart multiple times. But their dedication to their music kept the band going, even as personal struggles mounted.
Legacy of Mötley Crüe’s Early Years
By the mid-1980s, Mötley Crüe was among the biggest bands in the world. Their early history set the tone for a legendary career filled with iconic albums, arena tours, and rock and roll rebellion. With their blend of glam, punk, and heavy metal, Mötley Crüe helped define a generation of rock music and left an enduring legacy that still resonates today.