CC DeVille: The Iconic Guitarist Who Defined Hair Metal

CC DeVille holds a unique place in the annals of rock history as the flamboyant guitarist of the legendary glam metal band Poison. Known for his electrifying stage presence, distinctive guitar solos, and iconic image, CC DeVille helped define the sound and style of the 1980s hair metal era. With a career that spans decades, he remains a celebrated figure in the music world, inspiring countless guitarists and fans alike.

Born Bruce Anthony Johannesson, CC DeVille's journey to stardom is a testament to his talent, determination, and unapologetically bold personality. From humble beginnings in Brooklyn, New York, he worked tirelessly to hone his craft and eventually became a driving force behind Poison's meteoric rise in the 1980s. Songs like "Talk Dirty to Me" and "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" are now considered anthems of the genre, with DeVille's guitar work playing a pivotal role in their success.

Beyond his contributions to Poison, CC DeVille's career has been marked by reinvention and resilience. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, he has continually evolved as an artist, exploring new sounds and collaborations. Today, his legacy endures not only as a guitarist but also as a symbol of the larger-than-life spirit of glam metal. Let’s dive deeper into the life and career of this remarkable musician.

Table of Contents

• Biography and Early Life
• What Are CC DeVille's Personal Details?
• Rise to Fame with Poison
• How Did CC DeVille Influence Hair Metal?
• Iconic Songs and Guitar Techniques
• CC DeVille's Unique Style
• Challenges and Comebacks
• Life Beyond Poison
• What Is CC DeVille's Net Worth?
• Philanthropy and Personal Life
• CC DeVille in Pop Culture
• What Are CC DeVille's Favorite Guitars?
• Frequently Asked Questions About CC DeVille
• Conclusion

Biography and Early Life

CC DeVille was born Bruce Anthony Johannesson on May 14, 1962, in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in a working-class family, he discovered his passion for music at a young age. His early influences included guitar legends like Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, and Mick Ronson. DeVille began playing guitar as a teenager, quickly developing a flair for dramatic and technically proficient solos that would later define his style.

As a young musician, DeVille played in local bands and honed his craft in the vibrant New York City music scene. However, he soon realized that his ambitions required a move to Los Angeles, where the glam metal movement was thriving. It was in LA that he crossed paths with Bret Michaels, Rikki Rockett, and Bobby Dall, forming what would become the iconic band Poison.

What Made CC DeVille Stand Out?

From the start, CC DeVille's personality and guitar skills set him apart. His flamboyant stage presence, colorful fashion sense, and wild hair made him a perfect fit for the glam metal aesthetic. But it was his ability to blend technical proficiency with catchy, melodic riffs that truly made him a standout guitarist.

What Are CC DeVille's Personal Details?

CC DeVille’s personal life has often been as colorful as his stage persona. Despite the highs of fame, he has faced challenges, including struggles with substance abuse and publicized feuds with bandmates. However, his resilience and ability to reinvent himself have kept him in the public eye.

Family and Relationships

CC DeVille has always maintained a relatively private family life, but he is known to be a devoted father. He has a son, Vallon DeVille Johannesson, born in 2007, whom he shares with his longtime partner Shannon Malone. The guitarist has often expressed how fatherhood has been a grounding force in his life.

Physical Appearance and Lifestyle

• Height: 5 feet 7 inches
• Weight: Approximately 154 lbs
• Hair Color: Blonde (often dyed in various hues during his career)
• Eye Color: Blue

CC DeVille is also known for his dedication to fitness and healthy living in recent years, often crediting his renewed focus on health as a key to his longevity in the music industry.

Rise to Fame with Poison

In 1985, CC DeVille joined Poison, completing the lineup that would go on to dominate the glam metal scene. The band’s debut album, Look What the Cat Dragged In, was released in 1986 and became an instant hit. Featuring tracks like "Talk Dirty to Me" and "I Want Action," the album showcased DeVille’s signature guitar style.

Breakthrough Success

Poison’s second album, Open Up and Say... Ahh!, solidified their status as rock superstars. The album included the chart-topping ballad "Every Rose Has Its Thorn," a song that remains one of the most iconic power ballads of all time. CC DeVille’s guitar work was instrumental in the album’s success, blending technical skill with emotional depth.

Stay tuned for the next sections as we delve into CC DeVille’s influence on hair metal, his unique style, and his contributions beyond Poison.