Decibel Geek Podcast

We conclude our ROCKNPOD 2025 coverage with a bang as Decibel Geek Podcast interviews Metal Blade Records founder Brian Slagel! Brian Slagel is a pivotal figure in the heavy metal music scene. He founded Metal Blade Records in 1982, launching the influential Metal Massacre compilation that introduced Metallica to the world. Under his leadership, the label has signed and nurtured bands like Slayer, Cannibal Corpse, and Amon Amarth, solidifying its reputation as a cornerstone of the metal community. In this long form talk, Brian discusses the early days of Metal Blade Records, it's formation, past clients, and plans for the future. Brian also touches on his thoughts on how the music industry has changed, how he learned to pivot,and even how it led to a detour into the hockey world. Want to know what bands he almost signed/passed on? Did Megadeth almost sign with Metal Blade? Learn that and much more! In addition to his work with Metal Blade, Slagel hosts the podcast 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal, produce