On this day June 14, 1982, the first volume of the Metal Massacre compilation album was released. It introduced listeners to a wave of underground heavy metal bands and played a major role in launching the careers of future legends.
Put together by Metal Blade Records founder Brian Slagel, the album featured tracks from then unknown bands including Metallica, Ratt, Steeler and others. Metallica made their recorded debut with the song Hit the Lights, which helped spark their rise in the metal world.
Metal Massacre reached fans through word of mouth, record shops and tape trading culture. It was raw, loud and unpolished—exactly what young metal fans were looking for. The success of this compilation helped shape the early 80s metal scene and led to a long running series that gave exposure to dozens of future heavyweights.
80s insight: Before music videos and social media, discovery happened through compilations like Metal Massacre. It gave fans a first glimpse at what the future of metal would sound like.
Put together by Metal Blade Records founder Brian Slagel, the album featured tracks from then unknown bands including Metallica, Ratt, Steeler and others. Metallica made their recorded debut with the song Hit the Lights, which helped spark their rise in the metal world.
Metal Massacre reached fans through word of mouth, record shops and tape trading culture. It was raw, loud and unpolished—exactly what young metal fans were looking for. The success of this compilation helped shape the early 80s metal scene and led to a long running series that gave exposure to dozens of future heavyweights.
80s insight: Before music videos and social media, discovery happened through compilations like Metal Massacre. It gave fans a first glimpse at what the future of metal would sound like.
