The Time Anthrax Played A Set With Megadeth, Slayer, And Metallica For The First “Big Four” Show

March 20, 2025

The sun was setting over Indio, California, casting a warm golden glow over the vast fields where fans were gathering. It was April 2010, and excitement hung in the air like electricity. This day would mark a historic moment for heavy metal music—The Big Four concert. Anthrax, Megadeth, Slayer, and Metallica, the four titans of thrash metal, were about to share the stage for the first time ever in the United States. Among them, Anthrax was feeling a mix of nerves and exhilaration. They had worked tirelessly for years, and this was their chance to show the world how they had earned their place in metal history.

As Anthrax prepared to take the stage, the roar of the crowd grew louder, a sea of black T-shirts and raised fists. Frontman Joey Belladonna could feel his heart racing. This wasn’t just another concert; it was a moment that could redefine their careers. A few years earlier, they had faced challenges and changes that tested their spirit as a band. But the bond between the band members had only strengthened with time. They knew that they had something special to share with the audience that night. They had been through the highs and lows, and now, they were ready to give it their all.

When the lights dimmed and their intro music filled the air, the crowd erupted in cheers. As the first notes of “Caught in a Mosh” rang out, Joey felt a surge of energy course through him. It was like every note they played reignited their fire, reminding him why they fell in love with music in the first place. The audience sang along with unyielding passion, creating a connection that was palpable. Each riff from guitarists Scott Ian and Charlie Benante sent waves of metal fury through the crowd, as the spirit of rock and roll united them all. This was their moment, and they were determined to make it unforgettable.

Halfway through their set, Joey looked out into the crowd and saw the faces of dedicated fans who had stood by them through thick and thin. The atmosphere was electric, and with every song, the bond between the band and the audience grew stronger. It was a feeling of triumph—a reminder that their hard work had led them to this incredible night. In that moment, Joey realized that it wasn’t just about performing; it was about the connection they shared with their fans, the stories woven through their music, and the memories being created together.

As the band wrapped up their set, the cheers and applause echoed through the night. Anthrax had played not just for themselves, but for every fan who had ever supported them. They had proven that they belonged on that prestigious stage alongside Megadeth, Slayer, and Metallica. The Big Four concert was a turning point, not just for Anthrax but for the entire thrash metal scene. It reignited the passion for heavy music in countless fans and new listeners, inspiring a new generation to discover the roots of metal.

In the days that followed, Anthrax received messages from fans and other musicians applauding their performance. Their confidence soared, and this moment became a cornerstone in their career, paving the way for more tours and opportunities. Joey looked back at that night with immense pride, thankful for the journey that had brought them there. The Big Four concert wasn’t just an event; it was a powerful reminder that music has the ability to bring people together, heal, and inspire. Anthrax had not only shared the stage with legends but had also solidified their place in the heart of metal history, proving that resilience and passion could conquer any challenge.