"As Ugly as They Wanna Be" is the debut EP by the American heavy metal band Ugly Kid Joe, released on October 8, 1991. The title serves as a parody of 2 Live Crew's As Nasty as They Wanna Be, highlighting the band's irreverent sense of humor.
This EP is significant for being the first in history to be certified multi-platinum by the RIAA, underscoring its commercial success and the band's rising popularity in the early '90s rock scene.
The EP features several tracks that would later be included on the band's 1992 debut album, America's Least Wanted. Notably, "Madman" appears with a new vocal track on the album version, showcasing the band's evolution in sound. "Everything About You" features a spoken intro in its album version and became a major hit, gaining further exposure when featured in the iconic film Wayne's World.
Additionally, the EP includes a cover of "Sweet Leaf," originally by the legendary British heavy metal band Black Sabbath, which reflects Ugly Kid Joe's influences and heavy metal roots.
As Ugly as They Wanna Be helped establish Ugly Kid Joe as a significant presence in the heavy metal and alternative rock scenes of the early '90s. Its blend of catchy hooks, humor, and hard rock sensibilities resonated with audiences, paving the way for the band's future success. The EP remains a notable part of the band's discography, marking their entry into the mainstream music landscape.
