Jeff Hanneman – The Riffmaster of Thrash Metal

- Slayer’s Founding Guitarist and Songwriting Force Behind Metal’s Darkest Anthems

Jeff Hannamen (born: Jeffrey John Hanneman 1964–2013) was a founding member, guitarist, and songwriter of Slayer, a pioneering thrash metal band. His aggressive riffs and dark themes shaped Slayer’s sound, co-writing classics like Raining Blood and Angel of Death. A fierce performer, he influenced countless musicians. After battling necrotizing fasciitis, he passed away in 2013 due to liver failure, leaving a lasting metal legacy.

JEFF HANNEMAN - Guitars

Jeffrey John Hanneman, known widely as Jeff Hanneman, was born on 31 January 1964, in Oakland, California. He was a renowned musician and founding member of the American Thrash Metal band, Slayer. Hanneman's contributions to the band as a guitarist and songwriter played a crucial role in shaping Slayer's distinct sound and establishing them as one of the most influential bands in the genre.

From an early age, Hanneman showed a deep passion for music. He began playing the guitar as a teenager, heavily influenced by the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and punk rock movements. In 1981, along with Kerry King, Tom Araya, and Dave Lombardo, Hanneman formed Slayer in Huntington Park, California. The band quickly gained recognition for their aggressive style, combining elements of speed, intensity, and dark lyrical themes.

As Slayer's lead and rhythm guitarist, Hanneman played a vital role in defining the band's signature sound. His riffs and solos showcased his technical prowess and creativity, contributing to the band's success in the thrash metal scene. Alongside Kerry King, the duo formed a formidable guitar partnership, creating some of metal's most iconic guitar harmonies and blistering solos.

Throughout his career with Slayer, Hanneman co-wrote many of the band's classic songs, including "Raining Blood," "Angel of Death," "South of Heaven," and "War Ensemble." These tracks, characterized by their aggressive energy, complex structures, and dark themes, solidified Slayer's reputation as pioneers of extreme metal.

In addition to his musical talent, Hanneman was known for his distinctive stage presence. With his long hair, signature bandanas, and leather attire, he embodied the essence of a thrash metal guitarist. His fierce and intense performances captivated audiences around the world, further elevating Slayer's status as one of the most revered live acts in the metal scene.

Tragically, in early 2011, Hanneman contracted necrotizing fasciitis, a rare flesh-eating disease, from a spider bite. The infection severely affected his health and led to his absence from Slayer's touring activities. Despite his condition, Hanneman continued to contribute to the band's music and songwriting.

On 2 May 2013, Jeff Hanneman passed away at the age of 49 due to liver failure in a Southern California hospital. His death sent shockwaves through the metal community, as fans and fellow musicians mourned the loss of a true metal legend. Hanneman's impact on the genre and his contributions to Slayer's discography continue to resonate with fans, inspiring countless musicians and shaping the future of thrash metal.

Jeff Hanneman's legacy lives on through his music, which remains a testament to his extraordinary talent and creativity. His influence on the world of metal, both as a guitarist and songwriter, is immeasurable, and he will always be remembered as an integral part of Slayer's monumental journey.

Jeff Hanneman's Personal Life
A Glimpse Into the Life, Love, and Legacy of Slayer’s Guitar Legend

Jeffrey John Hanneman was born on 31 January 1964 in Oakland, California, into a musically inclined family. He was the second child of George Louis Hanneman, a World War II veteran born on 9 August 1922, and Carol Joyce Shannon, born in 1923. He grew up alongside his older sister, Mary Jane Hanneman, born on 18 June 1954.

At 25, in 1989, Jeff married Kathryn, sharing a life together while he built his legendary career in Slayer. By 2 January 2008, he was living in Los Angeles, California, continuing to shape the world of metal.

Tragedy struck that year when his father, George, passed away on 25 March 2008, leaving a deep impact on him. Four years later, in 2012, Jeff lost his mother, Carol, at the age of 48.

On 2 May 2013, the metal world was shaken as Jeff Hanneman passed away in Hemet, California, at just 49 years old. That same month, he was laid to rest in Pacific View Memorial Park, Newport Beach, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy that continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide.

Slayer: The Thrash Metal Pioneers and Controversial Legends of Heavy Music

SLAYER – Black Serenade
SLAYER – Black Serenade album front cover vinyl record

"Black Serenade" is not an official Slayer album. Released in Germany, it compiles various bonus tracks and B-sides, likely sourced from singles and EPs. While the vinyl itself might be a collector's item

Black Serenade 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Christ Illusion
SLAYER - Christ Illusion album front cover vinyl record

Slayer’s Christ Illusion (2006) marked the return of drummer Dave Lombardo and showcased the band’s aggressive thrash sound. Featuring Grammy-winning tracks ‘Eyes of the Insane’ and ‘Final Six,’ the album’s controversial Larry Carroll artwork and themes of war and religion cement it as a standout in Slayer’s legendary discography.

Christ Illusion 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Diabolus in Musica
SLAYER - Diabolus in Musica album front cover vinyl record

One of the standout features on "Diabolus in Musica" is the songwriting contributions of guitarist Jeff Hanneman. Known for his powerful riffs and dark lyrical themes, Hanneman's influence is palpable throughout the record.

Diabolus in Musica 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Eyes of the Insane
SLAYER - Eyes of the insane (Red Vinyl) album front cover vinyl record

"Eyes of the Insane" is the 2006 single by Slayer, taken from their 2006 album Christ Illusion. The lyrics explore an American soldier's mental anguish following his return home from the second Gulf War

Eyes of the insane (Red Vinyl) 7" Vinyl Single
SLAYER - God Hates Us All
SLAYER - God Hates Us All album front cover vinyl record

The album opens with the track "Darkness of Christ," which features a sample from a speech by actress Gina Gershon in the film "Bound." This sample sets the stage for the rest of the album, as it is a chilling and ominous

God Hates Us All 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (Canadian & USA Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (Canadian & USA Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Slayer's 1984 EP "Haunting the Chapel" showcased their evolving thrash metal sound. Despite sharing the same haunting cover as the US release, the Canadian Banzai 12" Vinyl LP edition holds collector's appeal

SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (1984, Canada) SLAYER - Haunting the Chapel (1984, USA)
SLAYER - Hell Awaits
SLAYER - Hell Awaits album front cover vinyl record

Released in 1985, "Hell Awaits" was the sophomore album from Slayer, following their debut opus, "Show No Mercy." It marked a significant evolution in their sound, as they delved deeper into the dark and macabre territories

Hell Awaits 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Live in Montreux 2002
SLAYER - Live in Montreux 2002 album front cover vinyl record

Slayer's "Live in Montreux - 2002" captures their fiery 2002 performance at the Swiss Jazz Festival. This double LP unleashes thrash anthems like "Raining Blood" and "Angel of Death" on hot wax,

Live in Montreux 2002 12" Vinyl 2LP
SLAYER - Live Undead (Two different versions) 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Live Undead (Two different versions) album front cover vinyl record

This reissue includes the bone-crushing bonus track "Chemical Warfare," a studio scorcher that complements the raw energy of the live recordings.

SLAYER - Live Undead ( Record Label with Blood Dripping AXE ) SLAYER - Live Undead (Record Label with Red Guitar)
SLAYER - Live Undead / Haunting the Chapel
SLAYER - Live Undead / Haunting the Chapel Ltd Ed Blue album front cover vinyl record

Calling all thrash maniacs and Slayer disciples! A sonic assault from the band's early days is back for a limited pressing on stunning blue vinyl. "Live Undead / Haunting the Chapel" combines the raw energy of Slayer's

Live Undead / Haunting the Chapel Ltd Ed Blue 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Reign in Blood
SLAYER - Reign in Blood album front cover vinyl record

Slayer’s Reign in Blood (1986) is a thrash metal masterpiece renowned for its relentless speed and aggression. Featuring iconic tracks like ‘Angel of Death’ and ‘Raining Blood,’ the album set a new standard for the genre. Its dark themes and technical brilliance earned critical acclaim, making it a landmark release in heavy metal history and a pivotal influence on countless bands.

Reign in Blood 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Seasons in the Abyss
SLAYER - Seasons in the Abyss album front cover vinyl record

This album Seasons in the Abyss is the fifth studio album by American thrash metal band Slayer. It was released on 9 October 1990, through Def American Records, and later through American Recordings

Seasons in the Abyss 12" Vinyl LP
SLAYER - Show No Mercy (Black & Coloured Vinyl Versions)
SLAYER - Show No Mercy (Black & Coloured Vinyl Versions) album front cover vinyl record

"Show No Mercy" Three different versions of coloured vinyl, originally released in December 1983. Brian Slagel signed the band to Metal Blade after watching the band perform the song "Phantom of the Opera" by Iron Maiden.

SLAYER - Show No Mercy (Black Vinyl, Netherlands) SLAYER - Show No Mercy (Grey Vinyl, UK SLAYER - Show No Mercy (White Vinyl, UK)
SLAYER - South of Heaven
SLAYER - South of Heaven album front cover vinyl record

Slayer’s South of Heaven (1988) marks a turning point in their discography, introducing a slower, more atmospheric approach while retaining their trademark aggression. The album showcases tracks like ‘Mandatory Suicide’ and the title track, which became live staples. This release pushed the boundaries of thrash metal, cementing Slayer’s reputation as one of the genre’s most innovative and influential bands.

South of Heaven 12" Vinyl LP