Shifting Gears in the Rock Landscape
When KISS released "Lick It Up" in 1983, they stood at a crucial crossroads not just in their career, but in rock music itself. The band, famous for their flamboyant stage personas and anthemic tunes, had opted to shed the makeup that had defined them for over a decade. With the album of the same name, KISS sought to reclaim relevance during a time when the music scene was leaning heavily towards the glittering disco and emerging new wave sounds.
The Danceable Backbone
One of the most striking aspects of "Lick It Up" is its infectious groove. The song, produced by Michael James Jackson, showcases a rhythmic foundation that feels more aligned with the dance tracks of the early 80s than the hard rock of their previous albums. The beat is undeniably contagious, pulling listeners into a world where rock and dance music are inextricably linked.
"Lick it up, lick it up, it's only a matter of time"
This chorus, at first glance, might seem like classic rock bravado, but the rhythmic delivery echoes the syncopated patterns found in disco hits. The call-and-response structure and emphasis on the beat echo the dance floors of the era, making the track not just a rock anthem but a party jam.
Channeling New Wave and Disco
The early 80s were marked by the rise of synth-pop and dance music, genres that KISS seemed to flirt with. Songs like "Lick It Up" reflect a conscious effort to absorb these influences. Think of how bands like Duran Duran and A Flock of Seagulls were reshaping the soundscape with electronics and danceable beats. KISS, in this instance, didn’t just borrow; they integrated.
The song was the first KISS single released after the band removed their iconic makeup, signifying a new era for the group.
Production Techniques
Michael James Jackson's production choices further pushed the band into dance territory. The layered guitar riffs and bright keyboard sounds lend a glossy finish that was a hallmark of the dance tracks of the time. The result is a sound that feels both contemporary and timeless. The production captures the essence of excitement that early 80s dance music thrived on.
A Rebirth for KISS
By embracing this new sound, KISS not only revitalized their image but also expanded the boundaries of rock music. "Lick It Up" became a bridge, linking the hard rock roots of the past with the pulsating rhythms of the future. This transformation allowed them to engage with a broader audience, including those who may have initially dismissed them as relics of the 70s glam rock scene.
"Yeah, I could be wrong, but I could be right"
This lyric encapsulates the band's adventurous spirit during this period. It acknowledges the uncertainty of their shift while confidently asserting their place in the evolving music landscape.
Legacy of 'Lick It Up'
In retrospect, "Lick It Up" stands as a pivotal moment for KISS and a reflection of broader trends in music. The unexpected influence of early 80s dance music on this track not only redefined KISS but also highlighted the genre-blurring potential of rock music. By leaning into the danceable elements, they proved that evolution is not just about survival; it's about thriving in new spaces.
Conclusion
As the lines between genres continue to blur, the lessons from KISS's "Lick It Up" are more relevant than ever. The song serves as a reminder that innovation often comes from unexpected places. While KISS may not be the first band that comes to mind when discussing dance music, their willingness to adapt and experiment paved the way for a future where rock could dance with disco.