Glenn Danzig
Glenn Danzig, born Glenn Allen Anzalone, is an American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer, renowned for founding the rock bands Misfits, Samhain, and Danzig. He also owns the Evilive record label and Verotik, an adult-oriented comic book publishing company. Danzig’s musical career, starting in the mid-1970s, spans various genres, including punk rock and heavy metal, and incorporates influences from industrial, blues, and classical music. He has written songs for other musicians, notably Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison. Known for his baritone voice and tenor vocal range, Danzig’s style has been compared to Elvis Presley, Jim Morrison, and Howlin’ Wolf, with Bill Medley also cited as a vocal influence. In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked him at number 199 on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.
Danzig’s early life in Lodi, New Jersey, was marked by an interest in heavy metal music, horror, and comic books. He began his music career at age 11, initially as a drum roadie, then playing in local bands. Forming the Misfits in the mid-1970s, he released the band’s records through his own label. The band gained a cult following but disbanded in 1983 due to personal and professional differences. Danzig then formed Samhain, which evolved into the band Danzig after being signed to a major label. His work with Samhain and Danzig showcased a blend of punk, metal, and blues influences.
Danzig’s collaborations have been significant in his career. In Misfits, he worked closely with Jerry Only and Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein, contributing to the horror punk genre. His collaboration with producer Rick Rubin led to the formation of Danzig, the band. Working with musicians like Eerie Von, John Christ, and Chuck Biscuits, Danzig developed a unique heavy metal sound. His influence extends beyond music into comic book publishing with Verotik, reflecting his lifelong interest in horror and erotica.