Kerry King

Kerry King: The Riff Master Behind Slayer’s Infernal Sound In the pantheon of heavy metal, where the guitar reigns supreme and bravado is matched only by virtuosity, Kerry King occupies a unique niche. As the co-founder and guitarist of Slayer, King not only contributed to the shaping of thrash metal but also imbued it with a ferocity that has echoed through the genre for decades. Born on June 3, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, King’s journey to metal royalty began against the backdrop of the sprawling West Coast music scene, where he transformed himself into a harbinger of musical darkness. King's early life was defined by a dual interest in music and reptiles, an eclectic mix that he would carry with him into his professional life. The son of an aircraft inspector and a housewife, he picked up the guitar as a young teenager, driven by a fascination with the aggressive sounds emerging from the burgeoning heavy metal scene. Inspired by icons such as Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath and Eddie Van Halen of Van Halen, King developed a style marked by fast, intricate riffs and a distinctive, menacing stage presence. In 1981, the landscapes of metal and music at large shifted when King met fellow guitarist Jeff Hanneman. Their shared passion and vision led them to form Slayer, a band that would soon become synonymous with intensity and aggression. Joined by bassist/vocalist Tom Araya and drummer Dave Lombardo, Slayer set out to forge a sound that was heavy, fast, and unrelenting. Their debut album, "Show No Mercy," released in 1983, laid the groundwork with its rapid tempos and dark themes, capturing the attention of the underground metal scene. King's contributions to Slayer’s music were crucial. His riffs were seething with a chaotic energy, while his solos often veered into the atonal, a characteristic that soon became a Slayer hallmark. As the band evolved, so did King’s style. His guitar work on albums like "Hell Awaits" and "Reign in Blood" showcased not just technical prowess but also an ability to channel raw fury into a coherent sonic assault. The latter album, particularly its 28-minute relentless barrage, is often cited as one of the greatest metal albums ever created. It cemented both Slayer's and King’s status as formidable forces in thrash metal. King's guitar playing wasn't just about speed—it was about creating a landscape of sound that was both terrifying and enthralling. His partnership with Hanneman was pivotal, a Lennon-McCartney of metal where both pushed the boundaries of what could be done with two guitars. Their dual leads added a complexity and power that many bands attempted but few achieved. When Hanneman passed away in 2013, it marked the end of an era for Slayer, but King pressed on, ensuring that the band's legacy endured. Lyrically, the band often courted controversy, touching on topics such as war, religion, and mortality. King, though not the primary lyricist, often shared his strong opinions in interviews, never shying away from topics that stirred debate. This outspokenness mirrored his style on stage—a commanding presence, sporting his signature spiked wristbands and tattoo-covered arms, delivering performances that were as unforgettable as they were intense. Though Slayer announced their retirement with their farewell tour concluding in 2019, King has remained active, hinting at future projects. Throughout their career, King was not one for compromise. He consistently emphasized authenticity in music, not catering to commercial pressures but instead fostering an atmosphere of respect and integrity within the band. King’s legacy is not only tied to his blistering solos and face-melting riffs but also in his influence on the generations of guitarists who followed. His technique and tone have inspired countless musicians who regard him as a pioneer who made heavy metal more than just music—it was an experience, a movement, and a way of being. Beyond music, King has maintained interests that reflect his multifaceted personality. An avid snake enthusiast, he owns several exotic reptiles and has even brought his passion for cold-blooded creatures into his on-stage imagery and personal branding. His boldness in personal expression and music align seamlessly, presenting an image of a man who lives unapologetically on his own terms. While Slayer's story has run its course, King's narrative is very much alive. It’s a story of a relentless pursuit of musical extremity and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of metal. Kerry King's contributions have left an indelible mark not just on Slayer’s legacy but on the entire genre, ensuring he remains a pivotal figure within the echoing halls of metal history. As he charts his future, fans and metal enthusiasts await what new path this icon will carve beyond the electrified edges of Slayer’s shadow.