album · July 25, 1983

Kill 'Em All

Metallica

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Blackened Recordings / Universal MusicSee this day

metalthrash metalheavy metal

The debut album from Metallica, released in 1983, established the band as a major force in the thrash metal scene. It features raw, aggressive performances and songwriting that would influence the genre for decades.

• Recorded in just a few weeks in 1983 at Music America Recording Studios in Rochester, New York, with producer Jon Zazula.
• The album cover features a close-up of a hand, belonging to original bassist Ron McGovney, clutching a shattered piece of glass.
• Despite its critical acclaim and commercial success, the album was not certified gold by the RIAA until 1989.

Metallica is a heavy metal band from Los Angeles, California, formed in 1981. They are considered one of the "big four" of thrash metal.