Introduction
Glenn Danzig, born Glenn Allen Anzalone on June 23, 1955, in Lodi, New Jersey, is an iconic American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. Known for his deep baritone voice and dark, brooding musical style, Danzig is the founder of influential bands such as the Misfits, Samhain, and his eponymous band, Danzig. His career spans multiple genres, including punk rock, heavy metal, industrial, blues, and classical music.
Early Career and the Misfits
Danzig’s musical journey began in 1977 when he co-founded the seminal punk rock band the Misfits in Lodi, NJ. The Misfits quickly became known for their horror-themed lyrics and energetic performances. Despite their growing popularity, the band disbanded in 1983, but not before leaving an indelible mark on the punk rock scene.
Samhain: A Darker Sound
After the Misfits, Danzig formed Samhain in 1983, a band that delved into darker, more heavy metal-oriented themes. With Samhain, Danzig explored new sounds and lyrical content, pushing the boundaries of traditional metal. Despite their innovative approach, Samhain disbanded in 1987.
The Formation of Danzig
In 1987, Danzig formed his own band, Danzig, with former Samhain guitarist John Christ, ex-Rosemary’s Babies drummer Eerie Von on bass, and hardcore drummer Chuck Biscuits (D.O.A., Black Flag, Circle Jerks). The band quickly signed with Rick Rubin’s Def American label and released their self-titled debut album in 1988. The album featured the hit single “Mother,” which became an anthem of the heavy metal genre.
Musical Evolution and Success
Danzig’s subsequent albums, including Danzig II: Lucifuge (1990) and Danzig III: How the Gods Kill (1992), showcased his evolving musical style. Lucifuge expanded on blues influences, while How the Gods Kill introduced gothic romanticism, creating a more atmospheric and haunting sound.
Breakthrough and Mainstream Success
The band’s breakthrough came in 1993 when a live video for “Mother” gained heavy rotation on MTV, propelling the song into the mainstream and nearly breaking into the Billboard Top 40. Danzig’s collaboration with Johnny Cash on the song “Thirteen” for Cash’s acclaimed American Recordings further cemented his status as a versatile and influential artist.
Later Albums and Projects
Danzig’s later works continued to explore new musical territories. Danzig 4 (1994) entered the charts at number 29 but faced mixed reactions due to its subtle, atmospheric sound. After lineup changes, the band released Blackacidevil (1996), which experimented with industrial elements but received limited commercial success.
In the 2000s, Danzig returned to his roots with albums like I Luciferi (2002) and Circle of Snakes (2004), which emulated the raw power of his early work. He also released Black Aria II in 2006, a follow-up to his quasi-operatic solo project Black Aria.
Personal Life and Legacy
Beyond music, Glenn Danzig owns the Evilive record label and Verotik, an adult-oriented comic book publishing company. His influence extends beyond his bands, having written songs for artists like Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison.
Danzig’s vocal style, often compared to Elvis Presley, Jim Morrison, and Howlin’ Wolf, along with his theatrical stage presence, has made him a legendary figure in the heavy metal and punk rock scenes. His dark, romanticized vision and innovative approach to music continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
Glenn Danzig’s career, marked by his relentless pursuit of musical evolution and his fascination with the dark side, has left a lasting impact on the world of music. From the Misfits to his solo projects, Danzig’s legacy as a pioneer of punk and metal remains unparalleled.
