A Rocking Love-Hate Letter to Hollywood: Slade’s “Ooh La La in L.A.”
By the late 1980s, Slade had already cemented their legacy as one of Britain’s greatest rock acts, known for their anthemic choruses, foot-stomping rhythms, and rowdy energy. Yet, despite their massive success in the UK and Europe, the band had always found the American market elusive. It’s fitting, then, that in 1987, they released “Ooh La La in L.A.”, a tongue-in-cheek reflection on the highs and lows of life in Hollywood.
The song, released as the third single from “You Boyz Make Big Noize”, was penned by Noddy Holder and Jim Lea, two of Slade’s creative powerhouses. The production, handled by John Punter, gave it a polished, radio-friendly sheen, aligning with the slick rock sound of the era while still retaining Slade’s unmistakable grit.
Lyrically, “Ooh La La in L.A.” is a sarcastic, almost weary take on the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, painting a picture of excess, superficiality, and the relentless pursuit of fame. Unlike the wide-eyed wonder of many British bands who sought success in America, Slade’s perspective is far more knowing, laced with wry humor. Holder’s trademark raspy vocals bring a world-weary charm to the verses, while the catchy, singalong chorus makes it an earworm that’s hard to shake.
Musically, the song straddles glam rock and the polished arena rock of the ‘80s. The production leans heavily on big, punchy drums, layered guitars, and an infectious melody that fits seamlessly into the decade’s radio-rock landscape. While it didn’t achieve massive chart success, “Ooh La La in L.A.” became something of a cult favorite among fans, particularly for its lyrical wit and playful energy.
For Slade, this track was a nod to their own experiences in America—a land of dreams, but also of disappointments. It captures the band’s rebellious spirit, proving that even after nearly two decades in the business, they still had a sharp edge and an unfiltered voice. “Ooh La La in L.A.” may not be their biggest hit, but it remains a fascinating, cheeky snapshot of a British band looking at Hollywood with both admiration and exasperation.