Warrant was formed in Los Angeles by guitarist
Erik Turner in July 1984. Turner was soon joined by bassist
Jerry Dixon. The band's early members included vocalist
Adam Shore, guitarist
Josh Lewis, and drummer
Max Asher. Vocalist
Jani Lane (who replaced Shore) and drummer
Steven "Sweet" Chamberlin (who replaced Asher) joined the band in September 1986, and guitarist
Joey Allen (who replaced Lewis) completed the line-up in March 1987. Lane and Sweet were previously in the band
Plain Jane, which had recorded several demos. The recruitment of Lane proved pivotal in the band's future, with the singer quickly assuming the role of song writer. After achieving fame on the L.A. club scene, the band recorded a demo tape in September 1987 for Paisley Park Records, a record label owned by musician
Prince. At this time, A&M records purchased an option to sign Warrant and invited the band to contribute a song for the soundtrack of the motion picture
Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure. Both deals would prove unsuccessful, with the band's contribution "Game of War" being pulled from the soundtrack and A&M allowing its option to lapse. In January 2008, the band's agent, The
William Morris Agency issued a new photograph of the band with Lane prominently featured, confirming his return to the band. This version of the band was scheduled to play at Rocklahoma 2008. In March 2008, Warrant announced on its official website that it would co-headline with Cinderella on a summer tour after Rocklahoma 2008. Ultimately, the tour was canceled after Cinderella singer
Tom Keifer's left vocal cord hemorrhaged, making it impossible for him to sing in the immediate future. They had several shows outside of the Cinderella tour including 2 dates in Canada, Rocklahoma, and several in August.