Explore every episode of the podcast 100 Songs that Define Heavy Metal

Iron Maiden - "Hallowed Be Thy Name" from the album "Number of the Beast" released in the US March 22, 1982 and in the UK March 29, 1982 This episode is officially the last in line, the number one song that defined heavy metal, the favorite song of our host, Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel. To discuss this song, he invited back on the show the only person who might be as big of a Maiden fan as he is: musician/actor/wrestler/podcast host Chris Jericho. Check out the unedited video version of the episode on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/9X4rxUHwo40 Brian also discusses the production with Jay Ruston, and one last time for this show, we hear from author Martin Popoff, with facts, figures, information and opinion about the song. As discussed previously on the show, Brian will be back in January 2027 with a new podcast, the Metal Blade 45th Anniversary podcast, where each week he will be joined by guests to spend the entire show discussing one album from the 45 year history of Metal Blade Records. If you're subscribed to this show, the new one will appear in the same feed, and the old episodes of this show aren't going anywhere if you want to revisit your favorites or catch up on shows you may have missed. Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel Chris Jericho is on X @IAmJericho, on Instagram @ChrisJerichoFozzy and Tik Tok @ChrisJericho Jay Ruston is on X and Instagram @JayRuston Martin Popoff is on Instagram @Martin_Popoff63 Lizzy Borden is on X and Instagram @LizzyBordenOfficial Show Producer Christian Bladt is on X and Instagram at @ChristianDMZ and his podcast is called The Bladtcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rainbow - "Stargazer / A Light in the Black" from the album "Rising" released May 17, 1976. Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel welcomes back to the show radio and TV host Eddie Trunk to discuss Brian's second favorite song of all time (which is actually two songs that he just can't separate): Rainbow's "Stargazer" and "A Light in the Black". They also discuss the entire Rainbow catalogue, and how they both found their way to the band, and of course, remember their friend Ronnie James Dio. Jay Ruston discusses the production on these songs and, as always, author Martin Popoff gives us some historical context and his opinion about the songs. If you would like to see the complete and unedited version of Brian's interview with Eddie Trunk, go to our You Tube channel and watch it HERE: https://youtu.be/-k_O2LgelSQ Follow the show on Social Media @100MetalSongs Follow Brian Slagel on Social Media @BrianSlagel Follow Eddie Trunk on social media @EddieTrunk Jay Ruston is on Instagram and X @JayRuston Martin Popoff is on Instagram @Martin_Popoff63 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metallica - "Enter Sandman" Released as a single on July 29, 1991. The music video was released July 30, 1991 and the album "Metallica" (AKA "The Black Album") was released August 12, 1991. Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses Metallica's "Enter Sandman" and catches up with his old friend Brian Lew who photographed Metallica extensively in the early days, and his work is part of the documentary "Murder in the Front Row" and the book of the same name. Brian also discusses the production of "Enter Sandman" with Jay Ruston, and, of course, author Martin Popoff checks in with his usual collection of information and opinion. For the entire, unedited video version of the interview, go to our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/c4_zFsfs92o Follow Brian Slagel on social media @BrianSlagel Brian Lew's "Murder in the Front Row" is on Instagram @MurderInTheFrontRow Jay Ruston is @JayRuston and the show is @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mercyful Fate - "Evil" Released September 30, 1983 on the album "Melissa" Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks about the Mercyful Fate song "Evil" with Slayer guitarist Kerry King. They also discuss Rainbow, Judas Priest, Deep Purple and much more. Brian also talks to Mark Lewis about the production of the song. Martin Popoff also checks in as usual, being the font of information you've all come to expect. Watch the complete and unedited version of the Kerry King interview HERE: https://youtu.be/V5zitPwlgqk Follow Brian Slagel on social media @BrianSlagel Kerry King is @KerryKingMusic on X and Instagram and @KerryKingOfficial on Tik Tok. Mark Lewis is on Instagram @MarkLewis720 Follow the show on X and Instagram @100MetalSongs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ghost's song "Ritual" was released on June 20, 2010, as a single ahead of their debut studio album, Opus Eponymous, which followed on October 18, 2010. Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses his appreciation for Ghost and shares stories about his association with the band, especially early on. Then, he is joined by producer Christian Bladt to look back on this podcast and look ahead to a new podcast concept that will start in January 2027. Brian also discusses the production on this song with producer Mark Lewis, and, as always, author Martin Popoff will provide historical information about the song, including facts, figures and his opinions. Watch the complete and unedited video version of Brian's conversation about Ghost, the reflection on this podcast and look ahead to the new one: https://youtu.be/5tpRMUPExSQ Follow Brian Slagel on social media @BrianSlagel Mark Lewis is on Instagram @MarkLewis720 Christian Bladt is on X & Instagram @ChristianDMZ and his podcast is The @Bladtcast Martin Popoff is on Instagram @Martin_Popoff63 Follow the show @100MetalSongs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Soundgarden - "Rusty Cage" From the album "Badmotorfinger" (Released October 8, 1981) Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks about Soundgarden's "Rusty Cage" from their breakthrough album "Badmotorfinger". He's joined by the producer of that album, Terry Date, and then he chats with comedian Dean Delray whose passion for the band runs deep. As always, author Martin Popoff checks in with facts, figures and opinions. For the complete unedited video version of the episode, go to our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/ZX8f3GJ3P9w Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel Dean Delray is @DeanDelray Martin Popoff is on Instagram @Martin_Popoff63 Follow the show on X and Instagram @100MetalSongs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Queensryche - "Eyes of a Stranger" From "Operation: Mindcrime" (Released May 3, 1988) Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks to musician Jacob Bunton about the great Queensryche song "Eyes of a Stranger" from their album "Operation: Mindcrime". He also discusses the production of the album with producer Jay Ruston and author Martin Popoff provides facts, figures and opinions as always. Watch the full unedited video version of the interview on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/rmRNMmSEPzw Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel Jacob Bunton is on social media @JacobBunton Jay Ruston is on social media @JayRuston Martin Popoff is on Instagram @Martin_Popoff63 You can follow the show on social media @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rush - "The Spirit of Radio" From the Album "Permanent Waves" Released January 14, 1980 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks about the importance of Rush's "The Spirit of Radio" with legendary sports radio and television host JT The Brick. They also discuss how JT has seen Rush 54 times (so far), whether or not the Las Vegas Raiders will be any good over the next few seasons, JT winning the first-ever Smack-Off on The Jim Rome Show and much more! Brian also talks about the production of the song with proud Canadian producer Jay Ruston, and we get our usual mixture of facts, statistics and opinon from yet ANOTHER proud Canadian, Martin Popoff. Watch a video version of the full interview on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5og4XF5V2Gc Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel JT The Brick is on X @JTTheBrick and Instagram @JTTheBrickLV Jay Ruston is on social media @JayRuston Martin Popoff is on Instagram @Martin_Popoff63 Follow the show on social media @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Def Leppard - "Let It Go" Release Date - July 6, 1981 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by Blake Ibanez of Power Trip and Fugitive to discuss Def Leppard's "Let It Go" off of their second album "High N' Dry". Jay Ruston talks about the production on that record and author Martin Popoff brings his usual mixture of facts, figures and opinions. For the complete, unedited video version of the Blake Ibanez interview, check out our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKZSrbBBnHk Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel Blake Ibanez is on Instagram @BlkIbanez Jay Ruston is on Instagram & X @JayRuston Martin Popoff is on Instagram @Martin_Popoff63 Follow the show on social media @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Motley Crue - "Livewire" From the album Too Fast For Love (originally released on Leathur Records in November 10, 1981 and again on Elektra Records August 20, 1982) Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks to the producer of this show Christian Bladt about the first Motley Crue song on their first record, "Livewire" from 1981's "Too Fast for Love". They discuss the history of the band and the scene they came out of, following the evolution of what some people call "hair metal". Jay Ruston also comes by to discuss the production on the song and both versions of the album, and our resident doctor of metal, Martin Popoff provides his unique mix of facts, figures and opinion. For the complete, unedited version of the Christian Bladt interview, go to: https://youtu.be/g7nNbhx9nYE Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel Christian Bladt is on social media @ChristianDMZ Jay Ruson is on social media @JayRuston Martin Popoff is on Instagram @martin_popoff63 Follow the show on X and Instagram @100MetalSongs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Black Sabbath - "Heaven and Hell" From the album of the same name, released April 25, 1980 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by the legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame bassist and lyricist for Black Sabbath, Geezer Butler. They discuss the song "Heaven and Hell", the pivotal moment in Sabbath's history where Ronnie James Dio joined the band, and they also discuss the follow-up album "Mob Rules". Brian also talks about the production of the song with Mark Lewis, who talks about how this is one of the greatest and most important songs in his life. We also check in with author Martin Popoff to give us some historical information and his well-informed opinions. Watch the complete, unedited interview with Geezer Butler: https://youtu.be/wZg3zywLe_Y Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel Geezer Butler is on Instagram and X @GeezerButler Mark Lewis is on Instagram @MarkLewis720 Follow the show on X and Instagram @100MetalSongs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Iron Maiden - "Powerlsave" from the album of the same name Released in Europe September 3, 1984 and in the US September 14, 1984 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks to Gabriela Gun of Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Ghost about "Powerslave", the amazing title track of the equally incredible album of the same name. Brian also talks about the production with Jay Ruston and author Martin Popoff checks in with he customary facts, figures, information and opinion. Watch the complete unedited interview with Gabriela Gun on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/V37ZkHY_IbE Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel Gabriela Gun is on Instagram @GabrielaGunOfficial and @TheGabrielaGunn on X Jay Ruston is on social media @JayRuston Martin Popoff's website is MartinPopoff.com Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on social media @100MetalSongs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gojira - "The Heaviest Matter of the Universe" From the album "From Mars to Sirius" RELEASED September 27, 2005 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by Steve Carey from the band Senses Fail to discuss Gojira's "Heaviest Matter of the Universe". Ryan Williams also checks in to talk about the production on the song, and author Martin Popoff provides even more information than usual about this song and the band Gojira. Watch the complete, unedited video version of the episode: https://youtu.be/JsZ5wLuHR3Q Brian Slagel is on X, Instagram and Tik Tok @BrianSlagel Steve Carey is on X @TCMSteve and Instagram @SteveCarey Ryan Williams is on Instagram @AugmentedRyan Follow the show @100MetalSongs on Instagram and Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metallica - "Orion" released March 3,1986 from the album "Master of Puppets" Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks to filmmaker Sam Dunn about Metallica's epic instrumental, "Orion". They also discuss Slayer, Iron Maiden and some of the films he's made through his company Banger Films. Jay Ruston also discusses the production on "Orion" and author Martin Popoff provides his usual combination of facts, information and opinon. Check out the unedited video version of the Sam Dunn interview on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/KOS5wo4aDug Brian Slagel is on social media @BrianSlagel Sam Dunn's Banger Films is on social media @BangerFilms Jay Ruston is on social media @JayRuston Martin Popoff's website is MartinPopoff.com Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on social media @100MetalSongs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AC/DC - "Hells Bells" From the album "Back In Black" Released Halloween 1980 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel welcomes back to the show Adam Rank from NFL Network and The Jim Rome Show to discuss the first track on AC/DC's "Back in Black" album, "Hells Bells". He also discusses the production of the song with Metal Blade's Ryan Williams. There's also the usual background, facts and opinions from author Martin Popoff. Watch the complete, unedited interview on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/8piwtHOEBcw?si=Z61Rn47wlNFxVy1n Brian Slagel is on X and Instagram @BrianSlagel Adam Rank is on X @AdamRank and Instagram @AdamRankNFL Ryan Williams is on X and Instagram @AugmentedRyan Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Black Sabbath - "Symptom of the Universe" From the Album "Sabatoge", released July 28, 1975 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by actor-comedian Brian Posehn to talk about Black Sabbath's "Symptom of the Universe", Brian's favorite Sabbath song from his Sabbath album. We also get the usual background, facts, figures and opinions from author Martin Popoff, who says that this is also his favorite Black Sabbath song. Plus, a conversation on the production of the song and the record from Mark Lewis. Watch the unedited video version of Brian's interview with Brian Posehn on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/LRT5aVCmmQg Watch the unedited video version of Brian's conversation about this song with producer Mark Lewis: Brian Slagel is on X and Instagram @BrianSlagel Brian Posehn is on X @TheBrianPosehn and Instagram @BrianPosehn Mark Lewis is on Instagram @MarkLewis720 Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal @100MetalSongs on X and Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Slayer "South of Heaven" from the album of the same name. RELEASED : July 5, 1988 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks about the title track from Slayer's 1988 album "South of Heaven" with Chris Kael of Five Finger Death Punch who also co-hosts the "Beardo and Weirdo" podcast with comedian Craig Gass. Brian also discusses the production on this song with Mark Lewis, and author Martin Popoff checks in with his usual mixture of history, facts, figures and opinion. For the complete, unedited video version of the Chris Kael interview: https://youtu.be/keYiHcSC33o?si=qWyVun2a7hnPMj3w Brian Slagel is on X and Instagram @BrianSlagel Chris Kael is on X and Instagram @5fdpchriskael Mark Lewis is on Instagram @MarkLewis720 Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal @100MetalSongs on X and Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Iron Maiden - "Number of the Beast" from the album of the same name Released March 22, 1982 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks to Queensryche lead singer Todd La Torre about Iron Maiden's "Number of the Beast". Producer Jay Ruston returns to discuss the production on the song, and author Martin Popoff offers up some unique opinions while providing facts and figures about the song. For the complete, unedited video version of the Todd La Torre interview, where you will see the many technical difficulties that arose during the recording of the interview, click here: https://youtu.be/LDpb0QOKIoo Brian Slagel is on X and Instagram @BrianSlagel Todd La Torre is on Instagram @ToddLaTorreOfficial Jay Ruston is on X and Instagram @JayRuston Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal @100MetalSongs on X and Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metallica - "Creeping Death" From the album "Ride the Lightning" Released November 23, 1984 In this episode, Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by Mike Hamer of the Violent Gentlemen clothing line to discuss Metallica's "Creeping Death". Brian also discusses the production of Metallica's "Creeping Death" with Metal Blade's Ryan Williams. As always, author Martin Popoff provides historical context, facts and his expert opinions about Metallica's "Creeping Death" The complete, uncut version of Brian's conversation with Mike Hammer can be found on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/nIdYNBrnryk Mike Hammer is on X and Instagram @HammerMe Ryan Williams is on Instagram @AugmentedRyan Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Queensryche - "Roads to Madness" RELEASED September 7, 1984 on the album "The Warning" Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses the final track on Queensryche's full-length debut, The Warning: "Roads to Madness". He talks to producer Zeuss, who has produced the last three Queensryche albums and then Adam Wodon of CollegeHockeyNews.Com who is a huge fan of the band. As always, Martin Popoff checks in with some historical facts and and analysis. For the COMPLETE, UNEDITED video version of the interview, go to our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/ZTuOHfRk9jw Follow Brian Slagel on social media @BrianSlagel Zeuss is on Instagram @ZeussProducer and his website is ZeussProducer.com Adam Wodon is on X https://x.com/CHN_AdamWodon Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jimi Hendrix - "All Along The Watchtover" First released as a single September 21, 1968 and was later featured on the Electric Ladyland album, released in October 16, 1968. (Originally recorded by Bob Dyland and released on the "John Wesley Harding" album December 27, 1967. In this episode, Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by guitarist Stoney Curtis talk about the impact of Jimi Hendrix by focusing on his cover of Bob Dylan's "All Along The Watchtower". Brian also discusses the production of "All Along The Watchtower" with Metal Blade's Ryan Williams, who breaks down the unique sound and the technology that was available to produce it back in 1968. As always, author Martin Popoff provides historical context, facts and his expert opinions about Jimi Hendrix's "All Along The Watchtower". The complete, uncut version of Brian's conversation with Stoney Curtis can be found on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNh-9j2Ca2M Stoney Curtis is on social media @StoneyCurtis77 Ryan Williams is on Instagram @AugmentedRyan Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Black Sabbath - "Into The Void" Release Date July 21, 1971 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks about the importance of the Black Sabbath song "Into The Void" with singer John Corabi (who has worked with Motley Crue, Ratt, The Dead Daisies among many others). John also talks about the underappreciated impact of Grand Funk Railroad and how he was able to see the original Sabbath perform live in the 70's and some of the other amazing shows he was able to see growing up in Philadelphia. Brian discusses the production of this song with Bill Metoyer, and, as always, producer Martin Popoff provides musical context and history about this song. You can watch video of the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://youtu.be/Riyvg3UPsQE Follow Brian Slagel on Instagram and X @Brian Slagel Follow John Corabi on Instagram @JohnCorabiOfficial and X @CrabLegs59 Follow Bill Metoyer on Instagram @Bill_Metoyer Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fates Warning - "A Pleasant Shade of Gray" Released April 22, 1997 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks to Fates Warning singer Ray Alder about their 1997 album "A Pleasant Shade of Gray": an entire album made up of one song. He also talks about the production of the record with Bill Metoyer, who did some engineering on the album. As always, author Martin Popoff provides some historical significance and impact of the song. You can watch video of the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDniJAb7iZ4 Follow Brian Slagel on Instagram and X @Brian Slagel Follow Bill Metoyer on Instagram @Bill_Metoyer Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kiss - "Love Gun" Released June 30, 1977 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discussed the title track from the 1977 Kiss album "Love Gun". First up, he hears from author Martin Popoff about the historical significance and impact of the song. Then, this show's producer Christian Bladt discusses more of the background and production of the song. Finally, the co-host of Morning Skate Scott Laughlin talks about his Kiss fandom, looks ahead to the NHL Playoffs and discusses some of the new music he's listening to right now. i You can watch video of the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDniJAb7iZ4 Follow Scott Laughlin on Instagram and X @LaughlinSXM Follow Christian Bladt on Instagram and X @ChristianDMZ Follow Brian Slagel on Instagram and X @Brian Slagel Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

UFO - "Let It Roll" The original studio version of UFO's "Let It Roll" was released on the album Force It on July 1, 1975.  The popular live version from the album Strangers in the Night was released on January 16, 1979 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks about UFO's "Let It Roll" with renowned producer and founder of Shrapnel Records, Mike Varney. Jay Ruston discusses the production with Brian and, as always, we check in with author Martin Popoff for some historical and musical context. You can watch the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://youtu.be/13IN-VjANhc?si=X1okGlY1BZ3gZpTJ Follow Mike Faley @MPFaley on Instagram and X Follow Christian Bladt on Instagram and X @ChristianDMZ Follow Brian Slagel on Instagram and X @Brian Slagel Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aerosmith - "Make It" Released January 5, 1973 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by his Metal Blade colleague Mike Faley to talk about discusses "Make It" from the debut Aerosmith album. This show's producer Christian Bladt talks about the production of that song and the enitre debut album, and, a s always, Martin Popoff provides historical context and information about the song. You can watch the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://youtu.be/phOH8tDKiAU Follow Mike Faley @MPFaley on Instagram and X Follow Christian Bladt on Instagram and X @ChristianDMZ Follow Brian Slagel on Instagram and X @Brian Slagel Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses Slipknot's "Surfacing" from their debut record with the producer of that album, Ross Robinson, and Zach Johnson from the band The Ghost Inside. As always, Martin Popoff provides historical context and information about the song. You can watch the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://youtu.be/9EI8pSP6mRM Follow Ross Robinson on Instagram @Ross_Robinson Follow Zach Johnson on Instagram @zachjayjohnson Follow Brian Slagel on Instagram and X @Brian Slagel Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SONG -Black Sabbath : "N.I.B" Released Friday February 13, 1970 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses Black Sabbath's "N.I.B." with the bands longtime manager, and wife of Geezer Butler. They also discuss the different eras of Sabbath, Halestorm, Ghost and even some of the best things to do in Las Vegas, where they both live. Producer Mark Lewis also discusses the production of the song and Martin Popoff provides all sorts of useful information and historical context. You can watch the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://youtu.be/mQzYAlHWsKg Follow Gloria Butler on Instagram and X @GloriaDeeButler Follow Mark Lewis on Instagram @MarkLewis720 Follow Brian Slagel on Instagram and X @Brian Slagel Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SONG - Mercyful Fate : "The Oath" Released September 7, 1984 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses the Mercyful Fate song "The Oath", the quasi-title track from 1984's "Don't Break The Oath" with actor-musician-host Elliott Fullam. They also discuss his heavy metal upbringing, his Little Punk People interviews, current musical endeavors and his role in both "Terrifier 2" and "Terrifier 3". Producer Mark Lewis also discusses the production of the song and Martin Popoff provides all sorts of useful information and historical context for the song. You can watch the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://youtu.be/V8is6iutE4M Follow Elliott Fullam on Instagram @ElliottFullam and on X @LittlePunkPPL Follow Mark Lewis on Instagram @MarkLewis720 Follow Brian Slagel on Instagram and X @Brian Slagel Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SONG - Coheed and Cambria "Welcome Home" Release Date - September 20, 2005 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks to Claudio Sanchez of Coheed and Cambria about their song "Welcome Home", his writing process, his career, the other forms of media he uses for storytelling and much more. Ryan Williams also discusses the production of the song with Brian and author Martin Popoff shares a wealth of information about the song. You can watch the entire unedited version of the interview HERE: https://youtu.be/oAbDnzxxpNk Follow Claudio on X and Instagram @ClaudioPSanchez Follow Ryan Williams on X and Instagram @augmentedRyan Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ozzy Osbourne - "Bark at the Moon" Released November 15, 1983 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses his favorite Ozzy Osbourne song, "Bark at the Moon" with Adam Rank from the NFL Network and The Jim Rome After Hour. Brian also discusses the production of the song with Bill Metoyer, and as always, author Martin Popoff provides some historical context as to why this is one of the 100 songs that define heavy metal. Watch the complete, unedited interview on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5kjrRi75_c Bill Metoyer is on Instagram and X @Bill_Metoyer Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Adam Rank is on X @AdamRank and Instagram @AdamRankNFL Bill Metoyer is on Instagram and X @Bill_Metoyer Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dio - "Holy Diver" Released May 25, 1983 Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks about the life and legacy of Ronnie James Dio and the song "Holy Diver" with Ronnie's wife and manager, Wendy Dio. Wendy also discusses her ongoing work as part of the Dio Cancer Fund, including an event coming up this Spring in Southern California. Ryan Williams returns to discuss the production on "Holy Diver" and Martin Popoff has his usually wealth of information about the song. To watch the complete, unedited video of the interview, go to our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/VcR9SB7fpcA Website: DioCancerFund.Org @OfficialRJDio on X @_ronniejamesdio on Instagram Ryan Williams is on Instagram @AugmentedRyan Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deep Purple - "Highway Star" Released March 30, 1972 on the album "Machine Head" Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by the former host of MTV's Headbanger's Ball Riki Rachtman to discuss the first really heavy song either of them ever heard as kids: Deep Purple's "Highway Star". They discuss the importance of that song, the greatness of the album and the band, plus some other musical firsts, including first album and first rock poster on their walls. Brian also discusses the production on this song with producer Jay Ruston As always, we get facts, figures and education from author Martin Popoff. Follow Riki Rachtman @RikiRachtman on Tik Tok, Instagram, X and Facebook Jay Ruston is on Tik Tok, Instagram, X and Facebook @JayRuston Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Slayer - "Chemical Warfare" Released August 4, 1984 on the EP Haunting the Chapel Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by the man known on Tik Tok as Metal Horror Madman, who has built a reputation for being passionate for metal, a defender of Slayer who goes so far as to scream about it. They discuss his discovery of Slayer, his love of the band and what stands out about "Chemical Warfare". Brian also discusses Slayer's production and specifically this track with Bill Metoyer who was part of the production of this EP along with Brian. As always, we get facts, figures and education from author Martin Popoff. Follow Metal Horror Madman @MetalHorrorMadman on TikTok and Instagram Bill Metoyer is on Instagram and X @Bill_Metoyer Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by the Executive Producer and Co-Creator of "Dark Side of the Ring" and the recent series of heavy metal documentaries, "Into the Void" about the song that he chose as the theme music for that series, Cirith Ungol's "Into the Void". Brian also talks about the production on this record with Bill Metoyer, whom Brian worked with on the production of Cirith Ungol's follow-up record, 1986's "One Foot In Hell". Author Martin Popoff provides his usual expertise in discussing the song, with many facts and even more opinions about Cirith Ungol's career. The complete, uncut version of Brian's conversation with Evan Husney can be found on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/RF4lOsgH3lk Evan Husney is on Instagram @EvanHusney Bill Metoyer is on Instagram and X @Bill_Metoyer Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Accept - "Fast As A Shark" Released in November of 1982, on their album "Restless and Wild" Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is reunited with his former co-host for the "Metal Misconduct" podcast for the NHL, Shawn Roarke, who is the director of editorial for NHL.com. They discuss some of their memories of doing that podcast, and how easily the episodes can still be found. They primary focus for the interview the importance of Accept's "Fast As A Shark", and how the case can be made that it was the first speed metal song, but it's undeniable that the song is a classic and inspiration to many hard rock and heavy metal artists who followed Brian also discusses the production of "Fast As A Shark" with Metal Blade's Ryan Williams, who talks about just how abnormal it was for Accept to have a song (and a record) this fast, and how they were never quite this fast again. As always, author Martin Popoff provides historical context, facts and his expert opinions about Accept's "Fast As A Shark". The complete, uncut version of Brian's conversation with Shawn Roarke can be found on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/iZgs9OdlrsY Shawn Roarke is on X @sroarke_nhl Ryan Williams is on Instagram @AugmentedRyan Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ministry - "Just One Fix" Released on June 14, 1992 on their album commonly known as "Psalm 69: The Way to Succeed and the Way to Suck Eggs" In this episode, Metal Blade Records CEO talks about the importance of the industrial sound to the legacy of heavy metal by focusing on Ministry's "Just One Fix". Current Ministry guitarist Monte Pittman talks about the song and how much fun it is to play it in their live shows. Monte also talks about starting his career and his long collaboration with Madonna. Brian also discusses the production of "Just One Fix" with Metal Blade's Ryan Williams, who breaks down the unique sound and the technology that was available to produce it back in 1992. As always, author Martin Popoff provides historical context, facts and his expert opinions about Ministry's "Just One Fix". The complete, uncut version of Brian's conversation with Monte Pittman can be found on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fvS0n5HFpY Monte Pittman is on social media @MontePittman Ryan Williams is on Instagram @AugmentedRyan Martin Popoff is on X @Popoff Martin Follow 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal on X, Instagram and TikTok @100Metal Songs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metallica - "Hit The Lights" Originally Released as part of the first Metal Massacre compilation (6/14/82) In this episode, Metal Blade Records CEO takes us all the way back to the beginning, with one of the songs featured on the original Metal Massacre compilation, Metallica's "Hit The Lights", which is the first song the band ever recorded. Joining him for his walk down memory lane is Associate Producer on the album, John Kornarens. Brian and John talk about how they befriended a young Lars Ulrich, whose determination to start a band led to Metallica being included on the record. John talks about his role in making sure the song was able to be included on the record, and he and Brian discuss their trip to London to promote the record, including spending a day with Uli John Roth. Legendary producer Bill Metoyer discusses the production on the song, while contrasting and comparing the different versions. He also explains why he never got to see Metallica when they were starting out in LA. John Kornarens can be found on Instagram @JHKLA59 For decades, John Kornarens has been a sought-after director and stage manager on shows such as Entertainment Tonight, The Talk, Dr. Phil, The Insider, Murphy Brown, and Rachael Ray. He also directed music videos for legendary Danish metal band Mercyful Fate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel talks to longtime Billy Idol collaborator, guitarist Steve Stevens about Scorpions "Catch Your Train", the band's Uli Jon Roth era, the 70's rock scene in and around New York, what he thinks of Yungblud and much more. Producer Jay Ruston discusses the production on this song and Martin Popoff provides historical context and information about the song. Visit our YouTube Channel for a longer, uncut version of this interview: https://youtu.be/wLRcx04o_jA?si=l2UctRurR27GQmG6 You can follow Steve on Instagram and X @SteveStevens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by Cannibal Corpse bassist and songwriter Alex Webster. They discuss the song "Scourge of Iron" from the band's 2012 album "Torture", Alex's musical background and influence, the extreme vocals of death metal and the evolution of the band's sound throughout their career. There's also focus on the production of the song, which Mark Lewis provides some unique insight, as he produced the follow-up album. As always, author Martin Popoff puts the song into historical context. Watch the complete unedited version of the interview on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/tm18aZ7x-e8 Cannibal Corpse's website: CannibalCorpse.Net Follow Alex Webster on Instagram @AlexWebsterBass and he's on X @AlexCannibal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by King's X bassist and singer Dug Pinnick. They discuss the band's career, how the band feels about their early collaboration with Sam Taylor and what it was like making the 1992 self-titled album that was their last with Sam. The primary focus is on one the band's most-streamed songs, "Black Flag". There's also focus on the production of the song, which Jay Ruston joins Brian to discuss, and as always, author Martin Popoff puts the song into historical context. Watch the complete unedited version of the interview on our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/BqCH_0hHTUI Watch the official video for "Black Flag" by King's X: https://youtu.be/RR0G9XKuHdE?si=ukX8Ef9u7DP7MtUi King's X's website: KingsXRocks.com King's X's are on both Instagram and X @KingsXOfficial Dug Pinnick is on Instagram @DugPinnick and on X @dUgpinnick_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, producer Jay Ruston has been promoted to the primary guest, talking to Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel about Rush's "Anthem", a song that was suggested by fellow Canadian and fellow contributor to this show, author Martin Popoff. Producer Mark Lewis also talks about the production of this song. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses Iron Maiden's epic "Rime of the Ancient Mariner" with Vaughn Lewis of Unchained Management, who represent Killswitch Engage, Canninbal Corpse, Queensryche and White Chapel among others. Vaughn is a huge Maiden fan, and he and Brian have a conversation of an appropriate length for a song that is nearly 14 minutes long. Brian also talks about the production with Jay Ruston and author Martin Popoff provides enough facts and figures to put the song in its appropriate historical context. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by Anthrax's Charlie Benante to talk about "Deuce" by Kiss -- both the studio version on their debut album and the version that kicks off "Kiss Alive!" Jay Ruston talks about the production and Martin Popoff puts the song in its historical context with some great information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel discusses Megadeth's "Holy Wars...The Punishment Due" with longtime bassist for the band David Ellefson. Jay Ruston discusses the production and our friend Martin Popoff provides not only his longest segment ever for this show, but his most fiery . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brendan Brown from the band Wheatus joins Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel to discuss the AC/DC classic "Let There Be Rock". Brian also talks about the production of the song with Bill Metoyer and, as always, author Martin Popoff gives us all the facts and figures you'll need to put this song in its historical perspective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel is joined by Foghat's Roger Earl to talk about their song "Easy Money". Jay Ruston talks about the production of the song and author Martin Popoff provides facts, figures and historical context for the song. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Katon De Pena of Hirax joins Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel to discss the iconic Judas Priest song "Exciter", which some people consider to be the first-ever speed metal song. Brian also discusses the production of the song with Jay Ruston and, as always, we get some facts and historical context from Canada's own Martin Popoff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Musician-comedian Dave Hill talks to Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel about the song "Angel Witch" by the band Angel Witch, from their debut album, Angel Witch. Bill Metoyer also discusses the production on the song, and why it sounds so good for that era, and author Martin Popoff puts the song into historical context. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Blade Records CEO Brian Slagel starts off the show with a remembrance of the great Ace Frehley. Then, he discusses Six Feet Under's "Lycanthropy" with author Martin Popoff, producer Bill Metoyer and the singer for the band, and founding member of Cannibal Corpse, Chris Barnes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices