Anthrax And The Rage-Fueled Sessions That Produced Only

April 2, 2025

In the heart of a dimly lit recording studio, a storm of emotions swirled around the band Anthrax. It was the late 1990s, a time when the world was gripped by fears and uncertainties, and for Anthrax, those feelings found a powerful voice in their music. The band was working on their new album, and they wanted it to reflect the raw intensity they felt about the world around them. The sessions were charged with a mix of anger and passion, as they poured their hearts into a song that would become an anthem of resilience: “Only.”

The band’s lead singer, John Bush, felt this overwhelming fire inside him. He had faced many challenges as a musician, and his journey was far from easy. Just as Anthrax struggled to balance their heavy sound with deeper meanings, Bush found himself wrestling with personal demons and frustrations. He was determined to channel that rage into the music, creating something that would resonate with their fans and inspire them to overcome their struggles. The weight of the world seemed to collide with their creativity, igniting a series of sessions that would push them to their limits.

As the band members gathered in the studio, they would often find themselves in heated discussions, fueled by their desire to create something meaningful. Friendships were tested as they debated lyrics, riffs, and the overall direction of the song. Yet, through the chaos and tension, respect for each other’s opinions shone through. Each argument sparked new ideas, each passionate exchange bringing them closer to a powerful piece of art. They worked late into the night, driven by the thought that their music could make a difference in someone’s life, and it was that thought that kept them going.

Finally, after countless hours of intense creativity, “Only” emerged from the shadows of their struggles. The song was filled with powerful lyrics that spoke of isolation and the search for meaning, but it also echoed a message of hope. It was a reminder that no matter how difficult life could become, there was always a way to fight back through art. When “Only” was released, it struck a chord with fans everywhere, resonating during a time when many felt lost in the chaos of the world.

This single moment of triumph transformed Anthrax’s career. They not only solidified their place in metal history but also found a deeper connection with their audience. Fans began to reach out, sharing how the song inspired them to face their own battles. Bush realized that music was not just a way to express anger; it was a bridge between people, a source of strength that could uplift those who felt alone.

Looking back, the sessions that birthed “Only” were much more than just a creative process; they were a testament to resilience and passion. Anthrax had taken their struggles and turned them into an empowering message of hope. For John Bush and the rest of the band, it was a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there was light to be found through music. Inspired by their journey, they continued to create, knowing that every note had the power to heal and unite.