Back in the early 1980’s, the radio stations across the United States, slow but surely, were being taken over by a bunch of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal bands from Southern California(primarily L.A & Hollywood). Bands like Motley Crue, Ratt, Dokken, W.A.S.P., and Armored Saint, just to name a few. This was what would be called the “LA Invasion”.
Between each bands own unique sounds, and their own unique look(image); along with this new channel on cable tv, MTV(Music Television); it was a match made in heaven for fans that wanted something new and exciting. And what a concept it was, having some form of “vision” to go along with all this great music coming out of SoCal.
Throughout most of that decade, a great amount of the bands good looks, swagger, high rotation on the radio, videos, etc.; the LA Invasion last most of the 80’s. More bands came out, but seemed to be watered down versions of the bands that started the movement.
But, just like all things come to an end; they also go in cycles and get rehashed.
For the past 10 years now, I have been around the music scene in SoCal. Whether it be a booker/promoter, internet DJ, or hosting a webshow covering the scene; there’s currently more talented bands and musicians here now, than there has ever been before. And it is just awesome what’s going on out here lately……it’s the beginning of the next LA Invasion!
With bands like Stonebreed, Motor Gun Hotel, Brain Dead, Void Vator, C4OC, Big Rig Dollhouse, Revmatix, Ninth Circle, Valor & Vengeance, just to name a few; the Invasion is posed to erupt and take over the world once again. That is my prediction.
It’s been no big secret that LA/Hollywood has been a magnet for bands, musicians, and all types of talented people since entertainment started. And still is til this very day. Talented people individuals are still moving out here, and there’s been a ton spawn of these creative people that are even more talented than their parents!
I’m very privileged to be hearing and seeing a lot of this take place, and even more fortunate to be playing a lot of these unsigned bands that are just chomping at the bit to Rock and seduce your Metal loving ears.
My name is Mike Cummings, and I’m a Booker/Promoter with The House of Metal, a DJ on www.c4ocradio.com. and co-created “Bang Your Head with Mike & Ed!” I am on live every Tuesday night on www.c4ocradio.com’s show “House of Metal Radio Show”. The show airs between 8pm – 10pm(PST) . I play THEE very best Hard Rock and Heavy Metal coming out of Southern California. It’s my mission to usher in the next LA Invasion. Be prepared. It’s coming!
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