As an 80’s kid, I have vivid memories of growing up with the electrifying sounds of Skid Row and other heavy metal hair bands that ruled the airwaves during that era. With over 20 million albums sold by the mid to late 90’s, Skid Row was undeniably a massive success. Although they continue to tour today, their popularity took a nosedive after parting ways with frontman Sebastian Bach and drummer Rob Affuso. Since then, they’ve been a mere shadow of their former selves.
But let’s not dwell on the present; instead, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the glory days of Skid Row through some of their most iconic moments and unforgettable songs.
5. Beavis and Butthead’s Take on ‘Monkey Business’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6XUomPHWpg
Trust Beavis and Butthead to mercilessly mock anyone, even a band they’d probably listen to, given their penchant for heavy metal. Skid Row was a prominent fixture on MTV, and their fans adored them. Back in the day, if a band could jam, had long hair, and belted out screeching lyrics that made sense, they were bound to have a massive following.
4. ‘Breakin’ Down’ in The Prophecy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vpre1CrOnPs
The Prophecy is an underrated yet powerful movie that explores the concept of an ongoing war in heaven, preventing human souls from reaching the gates of heaven. The archangel Gabriel is on a quest to find a soul darker than any other to help his side win the war. Skid Row’s ‘Breakin’ Down’ adds an intense layer to this gripping narrative.
3. ‘I Remember You’ on South Park
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czi0qjR1PgA
It’s somewhat surprising to hear Skid Row on South Park, considering creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s apparent preference for Journey. However, they’re known for their parodies and willingness to poke fun at just about anything. In this particular episode, the characters are playing a version of Guitar Hero, making Skid Row’s inclusion quite fitting.
2. The Anthem of Rebellion: ‘Youth Gone Wild’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIXCk9XxTSg
Back in their heyday, Skid Row played to sold-out crowds and was one of the most anticipated bands on tour. I remember my siblings and their friends rocking out to this band and others whenever they came on the radio or MTV. I didn’t fully appreciate them until I was a bit older, but I certainly pretended to be a fan back then. ‘Youth Gone Wild’ was the anthem of rebellion for an entire generation, and it still resonates today.
1. The Heartbreaking Ballad: ’18 and Life’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8O317T6Zlno
Arguably one of Skid Row’s most memorable and poignant songs, ’18 and Life’ tells the tragic story of a young man whose life spirals out of control, ultimately landing him in jail for the rest of his days. This cautionary tale was a rarity in the music scene back then, as few songs tackled such heavy subject matter so explicitly.
“Ricky was a young boy, he had a heart of stone.”
As we reminisce about Skid Row’s greatest hits, it’s hard not to feel a pang of nostalgia for the days when their music was the soundtrack to our lives. While their glory days may be behind them, their legacy lives on through the timeless songs that continue to captivate fans, both old and new.
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