Slayer, an iconic American thrash metal band, emerged from Huntington Park, California, in 1981 and has since become one of the most influential forces in heavy music. Formed by guitarists Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman, drummer Dave Lombardo, and bassist/vocalist Tom Araya, Slayer's aggressive sound and provocative lyrics propelled them to the forefront of the thrash metal movement, earning them a place among the "big four" of the genre alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax. Their groundbreaking album, Reign in Blood, released in 1986, is often hailed as one of the heaviest and most significant thrash metal records in history.

The band's early years were marked by a relentless pursuit of their musical vision, with King and Hanneman serving as the main songwriters. Their lyrics frequently explored dark and controversial themes, including serial killers, war, and religion, which sparked considerable debate and backlash from various groups. Despite—or perhaps because of—this notoriety, Slayer's music resonated powerfully with fans, leading to a devoted following and significant commercial success. Over the years, the band produced twelve studio albums, three live albums, and multiple EPs, with several of their works achieving gold certification in the United States.

Throughout their career, Slayer garnered critical acclaim and industry recognition, receiving five Grammy Award nominations and winning two for their tracks "Eyes of the Insane" and "Final Six," both from the 2006 album Christ Illusion. From 1991 to 2013, the band sold approximately 5 million copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan, solidifying their status as one of the most commercially successful heavy metal bands.

The lineup of Slayer evolved over the years, particularly following the passing of Jeff Hanneman in 2013. After his death, guitarist Gary Holt, initially brought in as a touring musician, became a permanent member. The band continued to tour and record, maintaining their reputation for high-energy performances and a dedicated fan base. In 2019, Slayer announced their disbandment following a farewell tour that lasted a year and a half, marking the end of an era for thrash metal.

Despite their official disbandment, Slayer has reunited for sporadic shows since 2024, delighting fans with their classic hits and reminding the world of their lasting impact on the heavy metal landscape. Their legacy endures, as they remain a seminal influence on countless bands and musicians, shaping the sound and aesthetic of thrash metal and heavy music as a whole.