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Kerry KingAmerican guitarist, founder and permanent member of the thrash metal band Slayer
Date of Birth: 03.06.1964
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Kerry King: The Uncompromising Guitarist
- Foundation of Slayer
- Megadeth Interlude
- Musical Career
- Guest Appearances
- Controversies and Feuds
- Personal Life
- Family and Relationships
- Hobbies and Interests
- Equipment and Instruments
Kerry King: The Uncompromising Guitarist
Early Life and InfluencesKerry King, born on June 3, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, developed a passion for music at a young age. His father, an aircraft mechanic, gifted him his first guitar at 13 to deter him from negative influences. King's academic prowess was evident, but his priorities shifted towards extracurricular pursuits in high school. After excelling in mathematics, his grades plummeted, leading him to abandon academic pursuits.
Foundation of Slayer
King's musical journey began in earnest with the formation of Slayer in 1981. He was joined by guitarist Jeff Hanneman, bassist and vocalist Tom Araya, and drummer Dave Lombardo. Despite struggling to finance their debut album, Show No Mercy, King's father generously provided a loan to support their endeavors.
Megadeth Interlude
After the release of Slayer's first record, King briefly left the band to join Megadeth. However, his stint was short-lived as he returned to Slayer after five shows, citing scheduling conflicts.
Musical Career
Contributions to SlayerAs Slayer's guitarist and primary songwriter, King has been an integral part of the group's success. His aggressive and intricate style has become synonymous with thrash metal. His lyrics often delve into themes of satanism and the occult, despite his professed atheism.
Guest Appearances
Beyond Slayer, King has made guest appearances on numerous albums, including Beastie Boys' "Reign in Blood," Ice-T's "Judgment Night," Rob Zombie's "The Sinister Urge," and Sum 41's "What We're All About (The Original Version)."
Controversies and Feuds
King has been involved in several publicized feuds with other musicians, including Dave Mustaine of Megadeth and Robert Flynn of Machine Head. Despite these conflicts, he has been praised for his authenticity and unwavering commitment to his beliefs.
Personal Life
Atheism and BeliefsKing is a vocal atheist and has criticized organized religion, considering it a crutch for those unable to navigate life independently. He believes in the importance of individuality and challenges societal norms.
Family and Relationships
King is married to Ayesha King and has a daughter from his previous marriage, Shyanne Kymberlee. He resides in Corona, California.
Hobbies and Interests
Snake EnthusiastKing is known for his love of snakes, which he has kept as pets since the early days of Slayer. He maintains a collection of over 70 snakes and has a deep fascination with their unique qualities.
Equipment and Instruments
King's on-stage persona is often marked by his leather arm guards adorned with large nails. He creates these accessories himself, meticulously drilling holes into cowhide using his signature Dremmel drill.
