Hysteria was a hit machine that yielded seven singles, which means there are also seven accompanying music videos.
In honor of Hysteria’s 30th anniversary, we’re looking back at the videos that launched Def Leppard into the stratosphere.
“Animal”
Did the circus theme of the video for “Animal” foreshadow the whirlwind that was in store for Def Leppard? Obviously, in hindsight, that’s a “yes.”
“Women”
Equal parts performance video and comic book adventure, you can buy the t-shirt featuring the cover of the comic book featured in the music video here. Alas, a search of finding the actual comic book for sale didn’t produce any results.
“Pour Some Sugar On Me”
Another performance video, but this time what’s captured is the essence of Def Leppard live and behind the scenes on tour…perhaps at peak fan “Hysteria?” (See what we did there?)
“Hysteria”
Speaking of “Hysteria,” can you say “swoon?” In all seriousness, “Hysteria” might be one of the most underrated love songs in the 80’s rock canon.
“Armaggedon It”
“Armaggedon It” is in the same vein as the video for “Pour Some Sugar On Me,” but can you blame Def Leppard for wanting to show off how throngs of women flocked to their shows? Let’s just say everyone was “gettin’ it.”
“Love Bites”
Every love song needs a break-up/anti-love song to go with it, and “Love Bites” is that to the album’s title track. The studio shots add to the drama of the song, and it bears mentioning that Def Leppard’s group vocal seem almost extra poignant here.
“Rocket”
The final single from Hysteria, appropriately enough, pays tribute to those that influenced the band the most and helped paved the way. From David Bowie and Queen to Elton John and The Beatles, “Rocket” and its video is the musical equivalent of doffing one’s cap.
Erica Banas is a rock/classic rock blogger that loves the smell of old vinyl in the morning.