The Time Anthrax Opened For Kiss And Won Over A Skeptical Crowd

March 21, 2025

It was the summer of 1983, and the air buzzed with anticipation as fans packed into the massive arena in Los Angeles. The lights dimmed, and the crowd erupted, roaring for the legendary rock band KISS. But first, they were going to be treated to a show by an unexpected opening act: the heavy metal band Anthrax. Many fans were skeptical, frowning at the thought of heavy metal music before KISS’s legendary glam rock. People whispered, “What do these guys even know about rock and roll?” But Anthrax had a mission — to win over every single one of those doubters.

As the stage was set, the members of Anthrax, all clad in their signature denim and leather, huddled backstage. There was a mix of excitement and anxiety in the air. Scott Ian, the band’s guitarist, felt a knot in his stomach. They had been invited to open for KISS, an honor for any band, but they knew they had to prove themselves to a crowd that wasn’t familiar with their music. They weren’t just there to play — they were determined to make a statement. “Let’s show them what we can do!” shouted Joey Belladonna, the lead singer, his eyes gleaming with fire and passion.

As they stepped onto the stage, the blinding lights greeted them like a tidal wave. The crowd was a sea of faces, many of them crossing their arms and tapping their feet impatiently. The first few chords of their opening song, “Caught in a Mosh,” rang out, cutting through the murmurs like a bolt of lightning. The energy shifted almost immediately as the aggressive beats and thrumming guitars filled the arena. Joey’s powerful voice soared as he sang with raw emotion, each note carrying a piece of his heart.

Slowly but surely, something remarkable happened. The skeptical crowd began to sway and nod their heads in rhythm. People who had come to see KISS were starting to realize that Anthrax was not just heavy metal; they were a force of nature. Scott Ian moved across the stage with electric energy, engaging the audience with a fierce passion that was hard to ignore. By the end of their set, the cheering was louder than anyone had expected. Faces that once showed indifference were now beaming, and a mosh pit had formed, swirling with excitement and newfound respect for the band.

When Anthrax left the stage, they were met with thunderous applause. Their hearts raced with disbelief and joy. This wasn’t just a good night — it was a turning point. They had not only won over a skeptical crowd, but they had also gained a new army of fans who would support them in the years to come. It was a memory that would stay with them forever, a testament to their resilience and love for music.

As they exited the arena, other bands and fans approached them, eager to share their appreciation. Anthrax had made history that night, and it marked the beginning of an electrifying journey in their career. They learned that with passion and determination, they could break through barriers and connect with people, no matter their preconceived notions. That performance became a defining moment in their lives, reminding them that music was a language that could unite even the most unlikely of audiences.