Anthrax And The Group Prayer They Held Before Their First Big Four Show

April 3, 2025

As the sun began to set on the bustling city of New York, a special energy filled the air. It was the night of Anthrax’s first-ever show with the legendary Big Four—Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth. For years, Anthrax had poured their hearts and souls into their music, carving a name for themselves in the heavy metal scene. But this gig felt different. This was a chance to step onto a stage shared by giants, a true milestone that could define their careers.

As the band gathered backstage, nerves ran high. They could hear the cheers of fans just beyond the curtain. Joey Belladonna, the lead singer, glanced around at his bandmates: Scott Ian, Frank Bello, and Charlie Benante. They had come a long way, and tonight was a culmination of all their hard work. But before they could step onto that stage, they all agreed on one thing—they needed to come together and focus their minds. So, in the dimly lit backstage area, they formed a small circle, held hands, and closed their eyes.

“Let’s pray,” Scott said softly. Each member shared their hopes and fears, channeling their anxiety into a collective wish for strength and connection with the audience. They prayed for courage to give their best performance, for the music to resonate with the fans, and for the spirit of metal to unite them all that night. With every word, they felt a wave of calm wash over them. It was a reminder that they were not just a band, but a family, and they were about to share their passion with thousands of people who loved music as much as they did.

As the prayers faded, the energy shifted. With hearts racing, they stepped out onto the grand stage. The lights blazed down, illuminating the crowd of eager fans. Joey took a deep breath, and in that moment, he felt more alive than ever. They dove into their set, unleashing an electric mix of powerful riffs and pounding drums. The crowd roared with every note, and it felt like a wave of pure energy flowing back to them. It was a moment etched in their memory, a feeling of unity that they had longed for.

Those few hours not only solidified Anthrax’s place in heavy metal history but also transformed the band. The connection they felt with their audience that night created a bond that was undeniable. They received accolades and respect from fans and fellow musicians alike, but more importantly, they found a deeper understanding of what it meant to be performers. Sharing that stage with the Big Four wasn’t just a personal achievement; it was a celebration of resilience, belief, and the power of music to unite people.

In the years that followed, Anthrax continued to rise. They embraced challenges, created iconic albums, and toured around the globe. Yet, they always remembered that prayer before their monumental show. It reminded them of their roots, their unity, and the magic that can happen when passion meets purpose. Each time they stepped onto a stage, no matter the size, they carried that spirit with them, fueled by the love of their fans and the rhythmic pulse of heavy metal that echoed in their hearts.