Steelheart started off as a usual heavy metal band called "Red Alert" whose members included James Ward (bass), Chris Risola (guitars), Jack Wilkinson (drums) and after auditioning, Michael Matijevic on vocals. Frank DiConstanzo (the former lead guitarist of "Rage of Angels") joined as a second guitarist and John Fowler replaced Wilkinson on drums. Recording a four-track demo tape, Matijevic managed to meet artist manager Stan Poses. However, Poses wasn't interested, despite this Matijevic persevered and eventually was given a scribbled address. The next day, Stan Poses had the demo tape, within an hour of hearing it, Matijevic received a phonecall confirming that "Red Alert" had just been given a contract with MCA records. Realizing that the "Red Alert" name was already taken, the band settled on Steelheart allegedly because of their attitude after trying to get a record deal for so long.