Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge was an American hard rock band formed in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in the late 1980s. Here are some key facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Career: Baton Rouge was formed in 1986 by guitarist Lance Bulen, vocalist Kelly Keeling, bassist Scott Bender, and drummer Corky McClellan. The band quickly gained attention in the hard rock scene with their energetic live performances and catchy, melodic songs. Their music drew influences from bands like Bon Jovi, Whitesnake, and Def Leppard, combining powerful vocals with driving guitar riffs and anthemic choruses.

2. Debut Album and Commercial Success: In 1990, Baton Rouge released their self-titled debut album, which received positive reviews and achieved moderate commercial success. The album featured the hit single "Walks Like a Woman", which received heavy rotation on rock radio stations and MTV. The success of "Walks Like a Woman" helped propel Baton Rouge into the spotlight and solidified their reputation as one of the rising stars of the hard rock scene.

3. Subsequent Albums and Lineup Changes: Baton Rouge released two more albums in the early 1990s: "Lights Out on the Playground" (1991) and "Shake Your Soul" (1992). While these albums received favorable reviews from critics, they did not achieve the same level of commercial success as their debut. The band underwent lineup changes throughout their career, with various musicians joining and departing the group. Despite these changes, Baton Rouge continued to tour and perform live, showcasing their energetic stage presence and musical talent.

4. Legacy and Influence: Baton Rouge's music remains popular among fans of hard rock and glam metal, and their albums are considered cult classics within the genre. Their melodic songwriting, powerful vocals, and memorable guitar solos have earned them a dedicated fan base and influenced subsequent generations of rock musicians. While Baton Rouge may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of their peers, their impact on the hard rock scene of the 1990s is undeniable.

5. Disbandment and Aftermath: Baton Rouge disbanded in the mid-1990s, following the release of their third album, "Shake Your Soul". The members pursued other musical projects and careers, with some continuing to work in the music industry as performers, songwriters, or producers. Despite their relatively short-lived career as a band, Baton Rouge's music continues to be celebrated by fans of hard rock and glam metal, ensuring that their legacy lives on for years to come.