Slaughter

Slaughter are a US hard rock band from Las Vegas, Nevada, formed in 1988. The group is centred on lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Mark Slaughter and bassist Dana Strum, who had previously played together in Vinnie Vincent Invasion. Their line-up also includes guitarist Tim Kelly and drummer Blas Elias, with Jeff Blando joining on lead guitar after Kelly dies in a car accident in 1998. Other members listed with the band include Timothy DiDuro.

Style and early success

The band develops an aggressive but melodic sound rooted in 1980s hard rock and heavy metal. They are known for energetic live shows, strong hooks and melodic guitar work. Their debut album, Stick It to Ya, is released in 1990 and sells more than two million copies worldwide, reaching double platinum status. It includes the singles “Up All Night” and “Fly to the Angels.” The follow-up, The Wild Life, goes gold and sells over 500,000 copies.

Recognition and later activity

Slaughter win the 1991 American Music Award for Favorite Heavy Metal/Hard Rock New Artist. The band releases five studio albums, two live albums and one compilation. It remains active from 1988 to the present, continuing to tour and release new material.

Live profile

The group becomes a regular feature on the rock and metal festival circuit, with appearances at the Monsters of Rock Cruise, M3 Rock Festival and Rocklahoma. Their continued profile is built on headline shows in the United States and internationally.