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Kill'em All

Metallica's debut album, "Kill 'Em All", released in 1983, is a seminal work that not only introduced the world to the thrash metal genre but also laid the foundation for Metallica's legendary career. Here, we delve into some of the lesser-known aspects of this groundbreaking album.


Despite being released on an independent label with limited promotion, "Kill 'Em All" achieved remarkable success, selling over 3 million copies in the United States alone and establishing Metallica as a pivotal force in the thrash metal genre.

Cliff Burton's introduction on "Kill 'Em All" marked a distinctive shift in Metallica's sound, with his innovative bass techniques and the iconic bass solo "(Anesthesia) - Pulling Teeth" showcasing his profound influence on the band's musical direction.

Initially titled "Metal Up Your Ass", the album's name was changed to "Kill 'Em All" due to distributor objections to the original provocative title and artwork, showcasing the band's early confrontation with industry norms and their relentless attitude.

The song "The Four Horsemen" underwent significant changes from its original version titled "The Mechanix" after Dave Mustaine's departure from the band. James Hetfield rewrote the lyrics, and the arrangement was altered, transforming it into one of the album's standout tracks.


"Kill 'Em All" not only established Metallica's presence in the music world but also influenced the evolution of heavy metal, demonstrating the band's innovative spirit and their commitment to their unique sound and vision.