About this album
Where they were
Released on October 17, 1989, 'Hot in the Shade' marked Kiss's return to the studio after a three-year hiatus following 'Asylum'. At this point in their career, they were trying to reinvent their sound while adapting to the changing musical landscape of the late '80s, incorporating more polished production and balladry to appeal to a broader audience.
Why it matters
'Hot in the Shade' features the hit single 'Forever', which became one of Kiss’s most successful ballads, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album helped solidify their presence during a time when glam metal was fading, demonstrating their adaptability and commercial viability despite shifting trends.
Essential tracks
- "Forever" — This track represents Kiss's foray into power ballads, showcasing their ability to blend hard rock with emotional lyrical depth.
- "Hide Your Heart" — 'Hide Your Heart' combines catchy melodies with a hard rock edge, encapsulating the band's classic sound while appealing to mainstream audiences.
- "You Love Me to Hate You" — With its driving rhythm and engaging chorus, this track exemplifies the album's hard rock vibe and showcases the band's lyrical playfulness.
- "Rise to It" — Opening the album with an energetic riff, 'Rise to It' sets the tone for Kiss’s bold return and reflects their signature style.
Release Date
October 17, 1989
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Rise to It 4:08
- 2 Betrayed 3:38
- 3 Hide Your Heart 4:25
- 4 Prisoner of Love 3:52
- 5 Read My Body 3:48
- 6 Love’s a Slap in the Face 4:04
- 7 Forever 3:52
- 8 Silver Spoon 4:38
- 9 Cadillac Dreams 3:44
- 10 King of Hearts 4:26
- 11 The Street Giveth and the Street Taketh Away 3:34
- 12 You Love Me to Hate You 4:00
- 13 Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell 3:52
- 14 Little Caesar 3:08
- 15 Boomerang 3:30