The Time Anthrax Played On Top Of A Skyscraper For A Music Video

March 20, 2025

It was a bright summer day in 1991 when the heavy metal band Anthrax stood atop the towering heights of a skyscraper in New York City. The sun blazed down, casting a golden glow on the city below, while the cool breeze swept over the rooftop, a stark contrast to the intense energy radiating from the band. The day wasn’t just a regular performance; it was a music video shoot for their song “Bring the Noise,” a collaboration with the legendary rapper Chuck D from Public Enemy. This fusion of metal and rap was electric, and it was a moment that would change their lives forever.

As Anthrax set up their equipment, the skyline of Manhattan loomed in the background, a breathtaking reminder of the city’s vibrant heartbeat. Vocalist Joey Belladonna felt a surge of excitement mixed with nerves. He knew that this song would break boundaries and reach ears that hadn’t experienced heavy metal before. Joey looked out over the crowd below—fans had gathered, their faces painted with anticipation. The band had faced their share of challenges, from being dismissed by critics to struggling with their identity in the male-dominated world of music. But here they were, on top of a skyscraper, ready to make a statement to the world.

As the cameras rolled, the band let loose with an energy that shook the very foundation of the building. The combination of Joey’s powerful voice and Chuck D’s rhythmic rap created a raw, explosive sound that echoed through the streets. The city was alive, and so was their music. They played with passion, each riff from Scott Ian’s guitar and every beat from Charlie Benante’s drums resonating with their desire to be heard and respected. In that moment, atop the world, they felt invincible. It was as if the struggles they had faced were merely stepping stones leading them to this pinnacle of success.

The aftermath of the video shoot was monumental. The song “Bring the Noise” would go on to help define a new genre, attracting more fans to Anthrax and opening doors for collaborations across the music industry. The band’s courage to blend contrasting styles inspired countless musicians to break the mold and experiment with their own sounds. For Joey, it was a reminder that creativity knows no bounds. He often reflected on that day as a pivotal moment in his career, where passion triumphed over doubt and fear.

In the years that followed, Anthrax faced ups and downs, but the spirit of that rooftop performance always lingered. The memory of creating art in such an extraordinary setting fueled their resilience. Each time they stepped on stage, they carried the weight of their experiences, infusing their performance with the same intensity and emotion they had shown on that skyscraper. They became a symbol of perseverance, proving that no matter how high the obstacles, the love of music can push you to soar above it all.

Looking back, Joey knew that day was not just about shooting a music video; it was about seizing the moment and embracing their true selves. It reminded him and his bandmates that music is a powerful force, one that can connect people and change lives. Even when faced with challenges, they would always rise to the occasion, playing their hearts out on whatever stages life presented to them, from the heights of skyscrapers to the depth of their fans’ hearts.