Meaning:
The quote you've provided is from Kerry King, the guitarist of the influential American thrash metal band, Slayer. King made this statement in an interview discussing one of the band's well-known tracks, "Raining Blood." The quote sheds light on the origins of the song and how it unexpectedly made its way onto the band's record.
"Raining Blood" is widely regarded as one of Slayer's signature songs and is often cited as a defining track in the thrash metal genre. The song is known for its intense, relentless pace, aggressive lyrics, and dark, foreboding atmosphere. It is a standout track from Slayer's third studio album, "Reign in Blood," which was released in 1986 and is considered a landmark in the thrash metal genre.
In the quote, Kerry King reveals that "Raining Blood" was initially intended to be included on a WCW (World Championship Wrestling) compilation, specifically for use in wrestling events. At the time, Slayer's music was gaining popularity among wrestling fans, and the band saw an opportunity to contribute to the soundtrack of the wrestling world. King's reference to it being "good" in that context suggests that the band originally viewed the song as a fitting and impactful accompaniment to the high-energy spectacle of wrestling events.
However, the unexpected turn of events came when Slayer decided to include "Raining Blood" on their own record, "Reign in Blood." This decision speaks to the band's confidence in the track and its belief that it deserved a place among their original material. By doing so, Slayer elevated the song from its intended use in a wrestling compilation to a pivotal position on an album that would go on to be a seminal work in the history of metal music.
The quote captures a moment of serendipity in the creative process, where a song initially conceived for one purpose ended up taking on a much larger significance within the band's discography and the broader metal music landscape. It also reflects the spirit of experimentation and openness to unconventional opportunities that has characterized Slayer's approach to their music.
"Raining Blood" has since become an enduring anthem for Slayer and a beloved classic among metal fans. Its inclusion on "Reign in Blood" solidified its place as a cornerstone of the band's legacy and a defining example of their uncompromising, aggressive musical style.
In conclusion, Kerry King's quote provides insight into the unexpected journey of "Raining Blood" from a potential wrestling compilation track to a standout feature on Slayer's iconic album, "Reign in Blood." It serves as a reminder of how creative works can transcend their initial intentions and take on a life of their own, resonating with audiences in ways that their creators may not have originally envisioned.