175. I Really Want to be Overrated

175. "Metal Health (Bang Your Head)" by Quiet Riot {#31; 1/84} [iTunes? Yes]
"I really want to be overrated." This "wheelhouse" song is here to represent all of the heavy metal radio airplay songs of the early 80s. Most notably, "Cum On Feel the Noize" by Quiet Riot and "We're Not Gonna Take It" by Twisted Sister. ("You're all worthless and weak!") And, to a lesser extent, "Round and Round" by Ratt and "Turn Up the Radio" by Autograph. (And to be clear there is a definite distinction for me between the aforementioned early 80s metal bands and the late 80s "hair bands" like Poison, Motley Crue, Cinderella and their ilk.) (I never much cared for their ilk.)

In my opinion, there is always some room for some guitar and screaming/screeching vocals. (But not always enough room for all that hair.)

Now for the odd fact of the day. This song first hit the charts in January of 1984. For over 25 years I thought the name of the song was "Mental Health." It wasn't until just a few years ago that I realized it was "Metal Health." (You know, "Mental" without the "N.") (But not, however, "Health" without the "L.")

I'm not sure whether I should penalize this song for fooling me for so long, or reward it for being so clever that it snuck that one past me for so many years. It's true what they say, "Metal health will drive you mad!" (And by "you" I mean "me.")

COMING UP NEXT: For me, I guess it really depends on the shirt.