Danzig: The Dark Prince of Metal: Secrets & Feuds

Danzig, formed in 1987 by Glenn Danzig after the demise of Samhain, has carved an unmistakable path in rock and metal history. With a sound blending doom-laden blues, gothic theatrics, and industrial experimentation, the band has remained a cult favourite despite constant reinvention, feuds, and controversy. Let’s dive into the dark world of Danzig—where skulls, lawsuits, and legendary riffs collide.

View: Danzig Band Merch T-Shirt

Band Members and Contributions

Danzig’s lineup has changed more often than a rock star’s leather jacket, but Glenn Danzig has remained the driving force.

Current Members (as of 2023):

• Glenn Danzig – The mastermind behind it all, handling vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards, and songwriting.
• Tommy Victor – Lead guitarist with a history of leaving and returning like a metal boomerang.
• Steve Zing – Bassist and backing vocalist, mostly for touring.
• Karl Rosqvist – Drummer, back in the fold after past stints.

Notable Past Members:

• John Christ (1987–1995): The guitar hero behind Danzig’s signature blues-doom sound.
• Eerie Von (1987–1995): A Samhain veteran who added dark, brooding bass lines.
• Chuck Biscuits (1987–1994): A drumming powerhouse on the first four albums.
• Joey Castillo (1994–2002): Held the rhythm during Danzig’s industrial phase.

Band turmoil? Absolutely. But somehow, Danzig always rises from the ashes.

Musical Style and Evolution

Danzig has never been content to play it safe, constantly shifting between styles:

• Early Era (1988–1994): Blues-soaked doom metal meets baritone crooning. Think Danzig (1988), Lucifuge (1990), and How the Gods Kill (1992).
• Industrial Experimentation (1996–1999): Blackacidevil (1996) dabbled in industrial noise, leaving some fans confused and others intrigued.
• Return to Roots (2000s–Present): Gothic metal resurgence in Circle of Snakes (2004) and Deth Red Sabaoth (2010).

Like any great artist, Glenn Danzig refuses to be boxed in.

Behind the Music: The Untold Stories

• Metallica’s Secret Connection: James Hetfield recorded uncredited backing vocals on Danzig (1988) due to contract issues. Talk about a hidden gem!
• “Mother”’s Late Bloomer Moment: Released in 1988 but didn’t explode until 1993 when a live version took MTV by storm. Proof that good music doesn’t expire.
• Legal Wars: Glenn Danzig sued producer Rick Rubin over royalties after Danzig 4 (1994), leading to a legendary fallout.

Visuals & Aesthetic: The Art of Darkness

• Skulls & Occult Symbols: Album covers drenched in dark religious and horror imagery (How the Gods Kill featured H.R. Giger’s work).
• Stage Presence: Glenn’s ripped physique, leather gear, and devilock hairstyle became part of the band’s mystique.

Controversies & Clashes

Danzig’s history isn’t just about music—it’s about drama.

• Racism Allegations: “White Devil Rise” (2007) sparked accusations, but Glenn dismissed them.
• Feuds Galore: Public spats with former members and even a notorious on-stage altercation with North Side Kings.
• Criticising “Woke” Culture: Glenn has claimed modern times stifle artistic freedom—because, of course, he has opinions.

Legacy: Danzig’s Impact on Rock & Metal

• Influence on Gothic Metal: Bands like Type O Negative and Ghost owe a debt to Danzig’s dark aesthetic.
• The Blackest of the Black Tour: Glenn’s passion project, showcasing underground metal since 2003.

Discography: The Albums That Defined a Cult Icon

Top Danzig Songs

“Mother” (1988)

“Her Black Wings” (1990)

“Dirty Black Summer” (1992)

Strange but True: Danzig’s Weirdest Side Hustles

• Comic Books: Glenn founded Verotik Comics, merging horror and erotica. Why not?
• Elvis Obsession: Danzig Sings Elvis (2020) saw Glenn finally live his rockabilly dream.
• Samhain’s Evolution: Rick Rubin convinced Glenn to rebrand, birthing Danzig as we know it.

Awards & Milestones

Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Danzig_band_members
https://www.digmeoutpodcast.com/p/danzig-history-of-the-band