Today in Metal History – June 11, 2025
On June 11, 1991, Type O Negative released their debut studio album, Slow, Deep and Hard, through Roadrunner Records. Originally titled None More Negative and released as a demo under the band’s former name Repulsion, the album marked a significant shift in the band’s musical direction. Keyboardist Josh Silver convinced his parents to lend him $6,000 in late 1989 to fund the recording of the album. The band’s lineup at the time included Peter Steele (bass, lead vocals), Kenny Hickey (guitar, co-lead vocals), Josh Silver (keyboards, backing vocals), and Sal Abruscato (drums, percussion), who was later replaced by Johnny Kelly.
Slow, Deep and Hard combined elements of thrash metal, doom metal, and hardcore punk, setting the stage for the band’s signature gothic metal sound. The album’s raw and intense themes, coupled with Steele’s deep, brooding vocals, established Type O Negative as a unique force in
Ritchie Blackmore – Deep Purple’s “Black Night” (1970)
On June 5, 1970, Deep Purple released the single “Black Night,” written by Ritchie Blackmore, Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, and Jon Lord. The song became a hit in August 1970, peaking at No. 1 on UK New Musical Express and Melody Maker charts, and reaching No. 2 on the UK singles chart. It also topped the chart in Switzerland and remains Deep Purple’s highest-charting UK single.
“Black Night” exemplified Blackmore’s innovative guitar work and solidified Deep Purple’s reputation as pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal.
Judas Priest – Hall of Heavy Metal History Induction (2018)
On August 2, 2018, Judas Priest were inducted into the Hall of Heavy Metal History at the Wacken Open Air festival in Germany. The private ceremony took place prior to the band’s headlining appearance before 80,000 fans as part of their “Firepower” world tour. The induction recognized the band’s decades of hard work and dedication to heavy metal, an art form they helped establish.
Iron Maiden – 50th Anniversary Documentary (2025)
In March 2025, it was announced that Iron Maiden would celebrate their 50th anniversary with a documentary directed by Malcolm Venville and produced by Universal Pictures, set to premiere in the fall of 2025. The documentary will feature interviews with current and past band members, as well as appearances from figures like Javier Bardem, Gene Simmons, and Lars Ulrich. It will include the last interview with Paul Di’Anno and previously unseen archival footage, along with animated sequences featuring the band’s mascot, Eddie.
Van Halen – Remembering Eddie Van Halen (2020)
On October 6, 2020, Eddie Van Halen, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of the band Van Halen, passed away at the age of 65 due to throat cancer. His son, Wolfgang, confirmed the news, expressing deep sorrow for the loss of his father. Eddie Van Halen was celebrated for his exceptional skill on the electric guitar, notably his two-handed tapping technique, which significantly influenced rock music. The band Van Halen, formed in 1972, achieved mainstream success with a series of hit albums in the late 1970s and 80s, selling over 50 million albums. Their self-titled debut in 1978 brought fame with tracks like “Eruption,” showcasing Eddie’s guitar prowess. The band later embraced a poppier sound with their 1984 album, producing their only number one single, “Jump.” Despite internal conflicts and struggles with addiction, Van Halen continued to impact the music scene. Eddie Van Halen is remembered for his contributions to music and revolutionary guitar techniques.
Thunder – “The Magnificent Seventh” (2005)
In February 2005, Thunder released their seventh studio album, The Magnificent Seventh, which debuted at number 70 on the UK Albums Chart and number 5 on the UK Rock & Metal Albums Chart. The album was recorded at Chapel Studios in South Thoresby and produced by Morley, with Rupert Coulson serving as the engineer and mixer. The band supported Deep Purple on a UK tour in November 2004, before releasing “I Love You More Than Rock ‘n’ Roll” as a single, which reached number 27 on the UK Singles Chart. The album’s success solidified Thunder’s position in the British rock scene.
These milestones highlight the enduring legacy and influence of these iconic metal bands. From groundbreaking albums to significant achievements, June 11 serves as a reminder of the rich history and continued impact of metal music.
