Rev It Up

The song "Rev It Up" by Vixen is a high-energy glam metal anthem that kicks off their 1990 album of the same name, serving as a powerful concert opener and a fan favorite. According to a review on The Hair Metal Fan, the track is described as an "impressive rock piece" that captures the band’s signature sound, blending catchy hooks with driving guitar riffs. The song’s production involved notable external songwriters, including Ron Keel of the band Keel, which was unusual for Vixen, as at least one band member was credited on every track, showcasing their collaborative spirit. The U.S. album cover famously featured a race car owned by local racing legend Bobby Baldwin, a nod to the song’s high-octane vibe, while European and Japanese versions opted for a band photo, as noted on Wikipedia. Fans on Amazon have praised the song for its "bad ass guitars" and Janet Gardner’s commanding vocals, cementing its status as a standout track in the glam metal scene.

Vixen was formed in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1973 by high school guitarist Jan Kuehnemund, who dreamed of rock stardom, as detailed on the band’s official bio page. Initially a local act, Kuehnemund moved the band to Los Angeles in the early 1980s to tap into the burgeoning glam metal scene. There, she retooled the lineup, recruiting vocalist Janet Gardner, drummer Roxy Petrucci, and bassist Share Ross (then Pedersen), forming the "classic lineup" that would define their 1987–1992 peak. Their big break came with a 1987 appearance in Penelope Spheeris’ documentary The Decline of Western Civilization II: The Metal Years, which showcased their raw energy alongside other rock acts. Signed to EMI Manhattan in 1988, Vixen’s self-titled debut album, featuring the Richard Marx-co-written hit "Edge of a Broken Heart," propelled them to fame, with extensive touring alongside Ozzy Osbourne, Scorpions, and Bon Jovi, as noted on Wikipedia. Despite challenges like the rise of grunge leading to their 1992 breakup, Vixen’s resilience shone through in multiple reunions, with Petrucci remaining the sole constant member from the classic era.

You can stay updated with Vixen’s official website for tour dates and news. Their social media presence includes Facebook, where they share performance clips and band updates, Instagram for behind-the-scenes photos, and X for real-time fan interactions. Fans can connect through dedicated spaces like the Vixen Fan Club on Facebook, a vibrant community for "Zoo Freaks" to discuss the band’s music and legacy. Another fan-driven site, Rock Era Insider, offers detailed band history and insights, perfect for those wanting to dive deeper into Vixen’s story.