The Broadway and Hollywood hit musical “Rock of Ages” is synonymous with the high-energy anthems of the 1980s rock scene. While many bands from that era are featured, Def Leppard, with their iconic sound, holds a special place. However, the journey to including Def Leppard’s music, specifically their powerful track “Rock of Ages”, wasn’t always a given. In fact, initial reactions from the band were laced with hesitation and a touch of rock ‘n’ roll rebellion.
Battling the “Hair Metal” Label: Elliott’s Perspective
For Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott, the term “hair metal” is more than just a label – it’s a mischaracterization that grates. Emerging 40 years prior to the “Rock of Ages” musical’s inception, Def Leppard found themselves unfairly grouped with what Elliott describes as the “new wave of British heavy metal.” He points out, with a touch of irony, that Iron Maiden was the only band from that wave to truly achieve lasting fame.
Alt text: Def Leppard electrifies the crowd with a live performance, showcasing the energy and musicianship that transcends genre labels.
Years later, the “hair metal” tag resurfaced, a categorization Elliott vehemently rejects. He emphasizes the band’s geographical and creative distance from the Sunset Strip scene often associated with that genre. During the era in question, while other bands might have been “poncing around Sunset Boulevard,” Def Leppard was immersed in recording their groundbreaking “Hysteria” album in the Netherlands, next to a windmill – a far cry from the perceived glam and posturing.
Initial Reluctance and the Untested Waters of Broadway
When approached about incorporating “Rock of Ages” into the musical, Def Leppard’s initial reaction stemmed from a sense of protecting their artistic identity. For Elliott, the request felt like an attempt to shoehorn their music into “a play based on everything that we stood against.” This resistance wasn’t rooted in ego, but rather in a deep-seated aversion to being misrepresented by the “hair metal” stereotype they had long fought to distance themselves from.
Furthermore, the musical production itself was in its early stages, far from the bright lights of Broadway. This element of uncertainty contributed to the band’s initial hesitation. Venturing into an untested project, especially one that seemed to align with a label they disliked, was a significant leap of faith.
Alt text: “Rock of Ages” musical poster, highlighting the vibrant energy and 80s rock anthems that define the show’s appeal.
Hollywood’s Influence: A Change of Heart
The tide began to turn when talk of a “Rock of Ages” film adaptation emerged. The prospect of a high-profile movie, boasting a star-studded cast, signaled a significant shift in the project’s scale and potential reach. This development marked Def Leppard’s first “change of heart.” The film version, released in 2012, demonstrated a broader appeal and a more mainstream platform for the music, potentially mitigating the band’s concerns about being narrowly categorized.
Ultimately, Def Leppard’s journey with “Rock of Ages” reflects a nuanced relationship with their own legacy and the evolving perception of rock music. From initial skepticism fueled by genre anxieties to eventual acceptance driven by Hollywood’s spotlight, their story underscores the enduring power of their music and its ability to resonate across diverse audiences and platforms.
