What was Mötley Crüe's First Hit?

Mötley Crüe's first song to achieve notable chart success and be widely recognized as a mainstream "hit" was "Smokin' in the Boys Room," released in 1985.

This track, a lively cover of the Brownsville Station song, was featured on their third studio album, Theatre of Pain. It marked a significant turning point for the band, as it became their first single to chart on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100, reaching number 71. While not a top 10 hit, its presence on the national chart solidified their growing popularity and laid the groundwork for future successes.

Early Releases and Path to Hits

It's crucial to distinguish between a band's first release and their first hit. While "Smokin' in the Boys Room" broke them into the mainstream charts, Mötley Crüe's very first musical offering showcased their independent spirit:

• First Single Release: "Stick to Your Guns" (with "Toast of the Town" as the B-side)
  • Release Date: 1981
  • Record Label: Leathür Records (the band's own independent label)
  • Distribution: Handled through a pressing and distribution deal with Greenworld Distribution in Torrance, California.

This initial single, though not a chart hit, was instrumental in establishing their early sound and identity. Following this, their debut album, Too Fast for Love (1981), and subsequent albums like Shout at the Devil (1983) built a dedicated fanbase. Songs like "Live Wire" and "Shout at the Devil" became fan favorites and concert anthems, cementing their reputation in the hard rock and heavy metal scenes long before they achieved mainstream chart success with tracks like "Smokin' in the Boys Room" and the power ballad "Home Sweet Home."

Key Early Milestones for Mötley Crüe

To illustrate their progression, here's a brief overview of key releases:

Mötley Crüe's journey from independent release to mainstream hit exemplifies their persistent climb to rock stardom.