Motörhead – Rock 'n' Roll (1987)
Album Overview
Rock 'n' Roll is the eighth studio album by British heavy metal legends Motörhead, released on 5 September 1987 through GWR Records.
Following the heavier and darker tone of Orgasmatron (1986), this album leaned more into the band’s roots in raw rock and roll, speed metal, and hard rock energy. While it didn’t achieve major commercial success compared to earlier classics, the record still delivered the loud, gritty sound fans expected.
The album features the same lineup introduced during the Orgasmatron era and continued to build Motörhead’s reputation as one of the most relentless bands in heavy music.
Background and Recording
By 1987, Motörhead had stabilized their lineup after several turbulent years. The band recorded Rock 'n' Roll with the following members:
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Lemmy Kilmister – bass, vocals
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Phil Campbell – guitar
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Würzel – guitar
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Pete Gill – drums
The album was produced by Guy Bidmead, who aimed to capture the band’s live power and raw energy. Recording sessions focused on maintaining the fast, aggressive style that defined Motörhead throughout the 1980s.
Although the album did not reach the same chart success as some earlier releases, it strengthened the band’s loyal fan base and kept their touring momentum strong.
Tracklist
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Rock 'n' Roll
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Eat the Rich
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Blackheart
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Stone Deaf in the USA
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The Wolf
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Traitor
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Dogs
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All for You
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Boogeyman
Notable Songs
Rock 'n' Roll
The title track opens the album with a straightforward, high-energy rock anthem celebrating the power and attitude of rock music.
Eat the Rich
One of the album’s best-known songs, featuring sharp riffs and biting lyrics. The track was also connected to the Eat the Rich (1987) film soundtrack.
Stone Deaf in the USA
A fast, aggressive song reflecting the band’s constant touring and experiences with American audiences.
Blackheart
A darker and heavier track that highlights the band’s aggressive guitar sound.
Cover Art
The album cover once again features Motörhead’s iconic Snaggletooth war-pig mascot, designed by legendary artist Joe Petagno.
The artwork shows the creature in a fierce pose with a glowing background, continuing the long-standing visual identity associated with Motörhead’s music and rebellious spirit.
Fun Facts
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The song “Eat the Rich” appeared in the soundtrack of the film Eat the Rich, which also featured Lemmy in a small acting role.
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Motörhead continued their reputation as one of the loudest live bands while touring this album.
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The record reflects the band’s strong connection to classic rock and roll roots despite their heavy metal sound.
Trivia
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The album was recorded during a period when Motörhead was touring heavily across Europe and the United States.
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Some critics described the record as a return to simpler rock and roll structures compared to the darker atmosphere of Orgasmatron.
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Despite modest chart success, the album maintained Motörhead’s cult popularity.
Did You Know?
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Lemmy appeared in the movie Eat the Rich, which helped promote the song of the same name.
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The dual-guitar lineup of Phil Campbell and Würzel became one of the longest-lasting configurations in Motörhead’s history.
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Motörhead’s relentless touring schedule during this era helped keep their reputation as one of the hardest-working bands in rock.
