Glenn Danzig

Glenn Danzig

Glenn Danzig, born Glenn Allen Anzalone on June 23, 1955, is a prominent figure in the American music scene, known for his contributions to punk rock, heavy metal, and various other genres. He is best recognized as the founder of several influential rock bands, including Misfits, Samhain, and Danzig. Additionally, Danzig is a singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer.
Throughout his career, which began in the mid-1970s, Danzig has explored a wide range of musical styles, drawing inspiration from punk rock, heavy metal, industrial, blues, and classical music. He has also written songs for other musicians, including iconic artists like Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison.


Danzig's vocal style is characterized by his distinctive baritone voice and impressive tenor vocal range. His singing has been compared to legendary performers such as Elvis Presley, Jim Morrison, and Howlin' Wolf, highlighting his unique blend of power and emotion. He has cited vocalists like Bill Medley as significant influences on his singing style.
In recognition of his vocal talent and musical contributions, Danzig was ranked at number 199 on Rolling Stone's list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time in 2023, solidifying his status as a seminal figure in the history of rock music.


Glenn Danzig, originally born Glenn Allen Anzalone, was born in Lodi, New Jersey, as the third of four sons. His father, a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, worked as a television repairman, while his mother was employed at a record store. The family also spent some time residing in Revere, Massachusetts.
From a young age, Danzig developed a passion for heavy metal music, citing bands like Black Sabbath, the Ramones, Blue Cheer, and The Doors as early influences. However, his early years were marked by struggles with drug and alcohol abuse, leading to frequent conflicts and legal issues. Fortunately, he ceased substance use by the age of 15.


During his formative years, Danzig cultivated a love for horror literature, delving into the works of authors like Charles Baudelaire and Edgar Allan Poe. He also harbored a fondness for comic books, eventually founding his own company to produce edgy and provocative comics.
After graduating from Lodi High School in 1973, Danzig initially aimed to pursue a career as a comic book creator and professional photographer. He enrolled at the Tisch School of the Arts and later attended the New York Institute of Photography. In the mid-1990s, Danzig ventured into the realm of adult-oriented comics with the establishment of his comic book company, Verotik.


Glenn Danzig's musical journey began with piano and clarinet lessons during his childhood, later teaching himself how to play the guitar. He entered the music scene at the young age of 11, initially working as a drum roadie before transitioning to playing in local garage bands. Despite never having formal vocal training, Danzig's innate vocal talent caught the attention of the local music scene.
During his teenage years, Danzig lent his vocals to several local bands, including Talus and Koo-Dot-N-Boo-Jang. These bands typically played a mix of original songs and covers, often including tracks by Black Sabbath. Danzig's involvement with these groups allowed him to refine his musical skills and develop his own distinctive style.


In the mid-1970s, Glenn Danzig founded the Misfits and began releasing the band's records through his own label, initially known as Blank and later as Plan 9. Despite Danzig's efforts to secure a record deal for the Misfits, he was repeatedly told that he would never succeed in the music industry. The band's name was inspired by Marilyn Monroe's final film, combined with Danzig's personal identification as a "social misfit." The Misfits released several singles and albums, gaining a dedicated following. However, personal and professional differences led Danzig to disband the Misfits in October 1983. Reflecting on this decision, Danzig explained his frustration with the band's lack of commitment to practicing and moving forward.


Following the dissolution of the Misfits, Danzig embarked on a new musical endeavor called Samhain. The band originated from rehearsals with Eerie Von, formerly of Rosemary's Babies. The name "Samhain" was derived from the ancient Celtic New Year, which influenced modern Halloween traditions. Initially envisioned as a punk rock "super group," Samhain featured members of Minor Threat and Reagan Youth on its 1984 debut album, "Initium." The band eventually settled into a lineup consisting of Eerie Von on bass, Damien on guitar, and Steve Zing on drums (later replaced by London May). Samhain released the "Unholy Passion" EP in 1985 and "November-Coming-Fire" in 1986.


Samhain's music caught the attention of major labels like Epic and Elektra, and the band garnered interest from Rick Rubin, head of Def American label, after performing at the 1986 New Music Seminar. Danzig credited Metallica's Cliff Burton and James Hetfield for helping to raise awareness about his music and expressed gratitude for their support.

References

1.  Gregory, Andy (2002). International Who's Who in Popular Music 2002 (4th ed.). Europa Publications. p. 123. ISBN 978-1-85743-161-2.
2. a b c d e f g h i Cipollini, Christian. "Glenn Danzig – Horror Business". Penny Blood. Archived from the original on August 21, 2008. Retrieved December 28, 2013.
3. ^ Craig Lee. "Horror-movie rock from Misfits". L.A. Times. April 15, 1982
4. ^ Mike Gitter. "Live Metal". RIP Magazine. 1988
5. ^ Mike G. "Interview with Danzig". Metal Maniacs. December 1999.
6. a b c d Zogbi, Mariana (Spring 1989). "Danzig on Thin Ice". Metal Mania. Archived from the original on September 26, 2010. Retrieved October 28, 2009.
7. ^ "The 200 Greatest Singers of All Time". Rolling Stone. January 1, 2023. Retrieved January 12, 2023.