As the final moments approached, Kerry King faced the end of Slayer’s supposed last performance with an epic heavy metal gesture. During the band’s closing minutes on November 30, 2019, the guitarist stood on stage at the Forum in Inglewood, California, and removed the heavy chains he had worn for years, which symbolized his dedication to metal. He then dropped them loudly to the floor, marking the end of an era for the pioneering thrash metal band he co-founded in 1981.
Slayer's farewell tour was met with tears and disbelief from the crowd, but King was already plotting his next steps. Although the finality of Slayer was palpable, he had plans for a solo career and a new band. With most of the roster for his new project already figured out, including Slayer drummer Paul Bostaph and several songs written, King was ready to embark on this new journey.
Now, as he prepares to return to the stage, King is set to perform at the Kia Forum as the head of a new metal outfit. This transition follows the release of his debut album, “From Hell I Rise,” which showcases a collection of speedy, raging guitars reminiscent of Slayer’s sound. The first glimpse of King's solo career came with the release of his single “Idle Hands,” ensuring fans that his aggressive style would remain intact.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kerry King |
| Date of Birth | June 3, 1964 |
| Occupation | Musician, Songwriter |
| Genres | Thrash Metal, Heavy Metal |
| Instrument | Guitar |
| Notable Bands | Slayer, New Project |
Reflecting on his journey, King emphasizes the importance of doing what you do best and continuing to innovate. He acknowledges the challenges of leaving Slayer behind but sees this as an opportunity to grow and explore new creative avenues. With the support of his bandmates and the legacy of Slayer behind him, Kerry King is poised to make his mark in the metal scene once again.
As he gears up for upcoming performances, including festival dates and his new band's debut, King is excited to show fans that his music still resonates with the same raw energy they've come to expect. With his sights set on the future, he remains focused on delivering powerful performances and continuing to evolve as an artist.
