In 1987, Sandi Saraya and keyboardist Gregg Munier began performing under the name Alsace Lorraine. They would eventually travel to Los Angeles in search of stardom, changing their name to Saraya, because Sandi was the face of the band. After a short stint in LA, the band would return to New Jersey where Saraya and Munier would spend the next year writing material for their debut album. Later in 1987, Saraya and Munier would be joined by former Danger Danger guitarist Tony Bruno Rey, bassist Gary Taylor, and drummer Chuck Bonfante. Saraya released their self-titled debut in 1989. Executives hoped to eventually develop Sandi Saraya into a sex symbol, making her the next Bon Jovi. The debut album saw some success, spending 39 weeks on the Billboard 200, peaking at No. 79.