'80s Metal History (July 1st)

July 1, 1982: Judas Priest released their eighth studio album "Screaming For Vengeance" in North America (one day later in the UK). Propelled by hit single "You've Got Another Thing Comin'", the LP debuted on the UK album chart on July 17th, reaching No. 11 and the US Billboard 200 on July 24th, peaking at No. 17. "This album's fairly crucial because we're at a point now where we do stand to become very big in terms of major world recognition." -Rob Halford as told to Kerrang!

Judas Priest "Screaming For Vengeance" release date source: [US] FMQB radio trade publication 'New Releases' - June 25, 1982... Billboard Magazine New LP/Tape Releases - July 3, 1982 and Full Page Ad - July 10, 1982; [UK] Kerrang! Ad - July 1, 1982.

July 1989: Over a year after the release of the album "Operation: Mindcrime", Queensrÿche issued "I Don't Believe In Love" as the last single in North America. In 1990, the song was nominated for a Grammy for "Best Metal Performance" (won by Metallica "One"). Release information source: R&R radio trade publication ad - June 30, 1989.

July 1982: Not yet thrash metal, Anthrax put out their first demo on cassette. Influenced by the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, the young, almost punk rockers included Danny Lilker, Greg D'Angelo, Greg Walls, Scott Ian and Neil Turbin. If you have a copy 💰

July 1983: Labeled under the genre "dominatrix metal," Metal Blade issued the debut album from Bitch titled "Be My Slave". Inspired by Alice Cooper, their theatrical live performances featured sadomasochistic themes. The PMRC were not fans.

Originally released in Japan only in 1984, Loudness later re-issued their fourth studio album "Disillusion" featuring song "Crazy Doctor" in Europe with vocal tracks sung in English.

Released in North America in early June 1987, King Diamond's second studio album "Abigail" was all the rage at College radio and sitting at No. 2 on the Hard Rock Airplay Chart and Most Requested. "Solid press buzz from mags like Metal Force and Metal Rendezvous made the LP featuring the title track and 'The Family Ghost', hard rock royalty to the max, here peasants. Dial in the King's totally trendy satanic overtones and 'Abigail' is must play, n'est pas?" -The Hard Report radio trade publication (July 10, 1987)

July 1, 1981: One month into their first American tour, Iron Maiden continued opening for Judas Priest with a show in Landover, Maryland. First three songs of the setlist: "The Ides of March/Wrathchild", "Purgatory" and "Sanctuary".

Happy Birthday to former Exodus guitarist Rick Hunolt (July 1, 1963). Rick performed on all '80s/'90s Exodus albums, sharing leads with Gary Holt (together known as the "H-team").

Happy Birthday to Running Wild lead singer and guitarist Rolf "Rock'n'Rolf" Kasparek (July 1, 1961).

Remembering former Whitesnake guitarist Mel Galley, who died July 1, 2008 at age 60. He is best known for his work on the "Slide It In" album. R.I.P.

July 1, 1991: Motörhead released a CD only live album in the UK titled "Live 1983", featuring the short-lived Lemmy, Philthy and guitarist Brian Robertson line-up. Release date source: Kerrang! - June 22, 1991.

July 1, 1991: Madcap Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain released his debut solo single "Rhythm of the Beast". It features Maiden guitarist Dave Murray and Nicko has described the song as "an instru-MENTAL!" Release date source: Kerrang! - June 22, 1991.

July is gonna be a hot one... flip your calendar and "Rock The Nations" 🤘

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