"Glamour Boys" by Living Colour

Song#:  4008

Date:  08/26/1989

Debut:  98

Peak:  31

Weeks:  13

Genre:  Rock

Pop Bits:  The band's second single from their debut album Vivid, "Open Letter (To a Landlord)," didn't catch fire. It stalled early on the Pop chart at a low #82. It did better at Rock where it got to #11. Looking for something to keep their momentum going, the band then released this third single, which was produced by Mick Jagger (he also supplies some backing vocals). While it stopped at a minor #26 at Rock, it did well enough at Pop to get the band their second Top 40 hit. However, it didn't move the needle much regarding album sales. It had already reached the platinum level back in April of '89 and that is where it would remain for a while. Later on in 1994, the LP would finally reach the double-platinum mark. "Glamour Boys" would earn Living Colour a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

ReduxReview:  While I liked "Open Letter (To a Landlord)," I don't think it was the right choice for a second single. This track really should have been released. If it had been issued out second, I think it might have done a bit better on the chart. The fact that this one nearly cracked the Pop Top 30 following the lackluster performance of the previous single was certainly a clue that it was a stronger contender. It was a catchy song that poked a little fun at guys who are fixated on money, parties, clothes, etc. As the band states in the chorus, they are not like them - they're fierce! And they certainly were.

ReduxRating:  7/10

Trivia:  The band would return in 1990 with their second album Time's Up. Featuring songs that touched on several genres and influences, the LP would reach #13 and go gold. None of its singles would make the Pop chart, but "Type" would be a hit at Rock (#5) and Modern Rock (#3). The album would earn the band a second Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance. After a small lineup change, the band would return in 1993 with Stain. While the song "Leave It Alone" (#14 Rock/#4 Modern Rock) would get them a Grammy nod for Best Hard Rock Performance, the LP stalled at #26 and failed to go gold. During session for a fourth album, the band encountered issues regarding their musical direction and decided to call it quits. That lineup of Living Colour would reunite in 2000. They have continued to record albums and perform over the years.

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