"Raining Blood" is a song by the American thrash metal band Slayer, and it is one of their most iconic and influential tracks. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Album Release: "Raining Blood" is the final track on Slayer's third studio album, "Reign in Blood," which was released in 1986. The album is considered a classic in the thrash metal genre and is highly regarded for its intensity and speed.
Songwriting Collaboration: The songwriting for "Raining Blood" is credited to all four members of Slayer: Tom Araya (bass, vocals), Kerry King (guitar), Jeff Hanneman (guitar), and Dave Lombardo (drums). The collaboration among the band members contributed to the song's distinctive and powerful sound.
Musical Style: "Raining Blood" is known for its fast tempo, aggressive guitar riffs, and intense drumming. It exemplifies Slayer's thrash metal style, characterized by rapid guitar picking, double-bass drumming, and aggressive vocals.
Controversial Cover Art: The album cover for "Reign in Blood" features a controversial piece of artwork created by Larry Carroll. The cover depicts a dismembered Christ figure, and its graphic nature led to some retailers refusing to stock the album.
Lyrics and Inspiration: The lyrics of "Raining Blood" were primarily written by Jeff Hanneman. The song is known for its dark and apocalyptic themes, with imagery inspired by Hanneman's interest in war, death, and horror.
Live Performances: "Raining Blood" has become a staple of Slayer's live performances and is often played as the closing song of their concerts. The intense energy and impact of the song make it a memorable way to conclude their shows.
Recognition and Awards: While Slayer's music, in general, may not have received mainstream awards, "Reign in Blood" and "Raining Blood" are highly regarded within the heavy metal community. The album has been influential in shaping the thrash metal genre.
Cultural Impact: "Raining Blood" has been featured in various forms of popular culture, including video games, movies, and TV shows. Its aggressive and powerful sound has made it a favorite for soundtracks in media that seek to convey intensity and adrenaline.
"Raining Blood" remains a significant and enduring piece of Slayer's discography, contributing to their status as one of the most influential bands in the thrash metal genre.