Waiting For The Big One

The song "Waiting For The Big One" by Femme Fatale from their 1988 self-titled album is a quintessential glam metal anthem that captured significant attention during its release. One intriguing piece of trivia is that the song's music video received heavy rotation on MTV, contributing to the album’s sales of nearly 225,000 copies. The video, featuring the band performing on a large stage under dramatic spotlights and surrounded by smoke, showcased lead vocalist Lorraine Lewis’s dynamic presence, which became a defining image for the band. In a 2016 interview with Blabbermouth.net, Lewis reflected on the song’s impact, noting that its popularity on radio and MTV helped establish a strong industry buzz for the band, paving the way for their U.S. tour with Cheap Trick. Fans on platforms like Reddit have shared nostalgic stories about discovering the song through late-night MTV broadcasts, with some describing it as a “hidden gem” of the 80s glam metal scene.

Another fascinating story about "Waiting For The Big One" involves its production. According to credits listed on Discogs, the track was produced by David N. Cole and Jim Faraci, with Cole also handling engineering and mixing. Lewis mentioned in an older interview that the band worked with notable L.A. songwriters during their recording sessions, including Wes Arkeen, who co-wrote Guns N’ Roses’ “It’s So Easy.” This collaboration aimed to refine the song’s hook-heavy sound, making it radio-friendly yet raw, a balance that resonated with their audience, affectionately called “Zoo Freaks” in the context of THE ZOO radio station. The song’s lyrical theme, often interpreted as a playful nod to chasing big dreams or thrills, aligned perfectly with the band’s high-energy persona, as evidenced by fan discussions on 80s Glam Metal Fans, where members frequently cite it as a standout track for its infectious energy.

Femme Fatale was formed in 1987 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, before relocating to Los Angeles to chase their rock dreams. The band, initially led by Lorraine Lewis, included Bill D’Angelo on lead guitar, Mazzi Rawd on rhythm guitar and keyboards, Rick Rael on bass, and Bobby Murray on drums. Their big break came after a well-received showcase in L.A., which led to a recording contract with MCA Records. According to their biography on Last.fm, the band’s move to Los Angeles was a pivotal moment, immersing them in the heart of the 80s glam metal scene. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1988, peaked at No. 141 on the Billboard 200, driven by the success of singles like “Waiting For The Big One” and “Falling In and Out of Love.” Despite their promising start, the band faced challenges, including label issues and the tragic illness of their manager, Andrea Accardo, leading to their dissolution in 1990. Lewis later revived the band in 2013 with an all-female lineup, signing with FnA Records to release their long-shelved second album, One More for the Road, in 2016.

For fans looking to connect with Femme Fatale, the band maintains a presence across several platforms. Their official Facebook page shares updates on performances and throwback content from their 80s heyday. On Instagram, they post behind-the-scenes photos and clips, often highlighting Lorraine Lewis’s current role as Vixen’s vocalist. Their X account engages with fans by retweeting posts about their music and sharing tour announcements. While no official website is currently active, fans can explore dedicated spaces like the 80s Glam Metal Fans Facebook group, where Femme Fatale’s music is frequently celebrated alongside other genre staples. Additionally, Metal Archives serves as a fan-driven resource with detailed discographies and band history, perfect for Zoo Freaks eager to dive deeper into Femme Fatale’s legacy.