NUGENT, TED if you can't lick 'em lick 'em 781812-1
Please see Online Shop for current stock availability
Artist = NUGENT, TED
Title = if you can't lick 'em lick 'em
Label = ATLANTIC
Catalog# = 781812-1
Barcode = 075678181214
Release = USA
Year =
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
*Search NUGENT, TED on Online Shop
*Search NUGENT, TED on Blog
* Search NUGENT, TED on YouTube
1 comment
The Motor City Madman in the 80s: Ted Nugent’s ‘If You Can’t Lick ‘Em… Lick ’Em’ (81812-1)
Today’s entry takes us to the late 80s hard rock scene with the Motor City Madman himself. We are looking at the 1988 US pressing of If You Can’t Lick ’Em… Lick ’Em by Ted Nugent, released on Atlantic Records with the catalog number 81812-1.
This album finds Nugent navigating the polished arena rock landscape of the late 1980s. While still featuring his trademark guitar pyrotechnics and wild persona, the production—helmed by heavyweights Tom Werman, Duane Baron, and John Purdell—leans towards a slicker, radio-friendly sound typical of the hair metal era.
For collectors of 80s rock history, the personnel on this record is of particular interest. The rhythm section features the late, great Pat Torpey on drums (recorded just before he joined Mr. Big) and Chuck Wright on bass (known for his work with Quiet Riot and House of Lords). Dave Amato (later of REO Speedwagon) also contributes backing vocals and rhythm guitar.
The tracklist includes high-energy rockers like the opener Can’t Live With ‘Em and the cheeky title track. A fascinating inclusion for melodic rock fans is the closing track, That’s The Story Of Love, which was co-written by Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora, further cementing the album’s connection to the mainstream rock zeitgeist of 1988.
81812-1 is a solid collectible from Nugent’s Atlantic era, capturing a specific moment where his raw guitar style met high-gloss 80s production values. The original release came with a printed inner sleeve featuring photos and credits.