MARSHA ZAZULA - Producer

- Marsha Zazula: The Visionary Force Behind Heavy Metal’s Golden Era

Marsha Zazula, co-founder of Megaforce Records, was a trailblazer in the heavy metal music scene. Alongside her husband, Jon Zazula, she launched legendary bands like Metallica and Anthrax. Her passion for music, sharp talent-spotting, and dedication to promoting thrash metal shaped the genre’s rise in the 1980s. Marsha’s legacy as a visionary producer endures.

    Biographical Details
  • Full Name: Marsha Jean Rutenberg - Zazula
  • Birthdate: 21 April 1952
  • Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York
  • Jobtitle: Producer
  • Occupation: Entrepreneur
  • Affiliation: Jon Zazula, Megaforce Records, Metallica
  • Died: 10 January 2021
MARSHA ZAZULA - Producer

Marsha Zazula widely known as a pioneering executive producer in the music industry, played a significant role in shaping the landscape of heavy metal music. Alongside her husband Jon Zazula, she co-founded and owned Megaforce Records, a renowned record label that served as a launching pad for numerous influential bands. Marsha's tireless dedication to supporting emerging talent and her unwavering commitment to the artists she worked with established her as an influential figure in the music business.

Born and raised in the United States, Marsha developed a deep passion for music from an early age. She possessed an innate ability to recognize exceptional talent and had an unwavering belief in the power of heavy metal as a genre. In 1982, Marsha and Jon founded Megaforce Records in New Jersey, creating a platform to promote and distribute the music they loved.

Marsha's role at Megaforce Records involved overseeing the production of albums for an impressive roster of bands. Throughout the 1980s, she produced over two dozen albums for notable acts such as Hades, Overkill, Raven, and Anthrax. Her work as a producer not only showcased her impeccable musical taste but also her ability to nurture artists and bring out their best performances.

Under Marsha's guidance, Megaforce Records became synonymous with the burgeoning thrash metal movement of the 1980s. The label's roster boasted a diverse range of influential bands that pushed the boundaries of heavy metal music. Marsha's keen ear for talent and her dedication to ensuring the artists' artistic vision were preserved made Megaforce Records a sought-after destination for aspiring metal bands.

Marsha's influence extended beyond the studio. She actively worked to secure recording contracts, negotiate deals, and promote the artists she believed in. Her relentless efforts to get the music heard by wider audiences resulted in several breakthrough moments for the bands she worked with.

Beyond her work with Megaforce Records, Marsha also played a pivotal role in organizing and promoting live events. She recognized the importance of live performances as a means for bands to connect with their fans and build a devoted following. Through her efforts, Marsha helped facilitate countless memorable concerts and tours, solidifying Megaforce Records' reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the heavy metal scene.

Marsha Zazula's contributions to the music industry have left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal. Her passion, vision, and unwavering support for artists have been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous bands and influencing the genre as a whole. Her work with Megaforce Records helped pave the way for the success of countless metal acts, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with fans and musicians to this day.

MARSHA ZAZULA - Producer Family Tree
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Marsha Jean Rutenberg was born in Brooklyn, New York City, New York, United States on 21 April 1952. She was the second child of William A. Rutenberg, born 26 February 1923, and Ramona Friedman, born 22 May 1924. Her sister was Hedy Lee Rutenberg, born 1 December 1947.

When she was 25 years old, her mother Ramona Friedman died (March 1978). When she was 49 years old, her father William A. Rutenberg died (18 December 2001).

She married Jonathan "Jon" D. Zazula in New York City, New York, United States, in 1979. She was 27 years old when she married Jonathan D. Zazula. She had one daughter with Jonathan D. Zazula: Rikki Zazula.

On 10 January 2021, she died in Clermont, Lake, Florida, United States, when she was 68 years old.

Index of METALLICA Vinyl Records and Album Covers Gallery

This section shows the complete Metallica discography ordered by album-title. Several titles are International and have been listed with the country of release

METALLICA - And Justice For All

Picture Of METALLICA - And Justice For All Blackened Records 180Gr Vinyl album front cover

  This release on "Blackened Records" label, is the 2018 audiophile re-issue of ""...And Justice for All" the first album released by Metallica after the death of Cliff Burton. It is also the first album with Jason Newsted on Bass guitar.

- ..And Justice For All (Blackened Records) - ..And Justice for All (1988, Netherlands)
METALLICA - Creeping Death (Complete Set Coloured Vinyl Records)
METALLICA - Creeping Death (Complete Set Coloured Vinyl Records) album front cover vinyl record

Creeping Death by the American Thrash Metal band "Metallica" is a 12" EP Vinyl record from 1984. Un-official versions from France (with different labels) have been released in the colors: Blue, Green, Red, White and Yellow Vinyl.

- Creeping Death Blue Vinyl (1984, France) - Creeping Death Green Vinyl (1984, France) - Creeping Death Red Vinyl (1984, France) - Creeping Death White Vinyl (1984, France) - Creeping Death Yellow Vinyl (1984, France)

METALLICA - Death Magnetic

Picture Of METALLICA - Death Magnetic ( Blackened Records ) album front cover

  This is the audiophile re-release of "Death Magnetic" the 2009 album released by the American Thrash Metal band "Metallica". This re-release comes in a gatefold album cover and two audiophile quality 180grams records.

Death Magnetic ( Blackened Records ) 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Hamburg Colorline
METALLICA - Hamburg Colorline album front cover vinyl record

Issued as a limited edition 12" vinyl LP, "Hamburg Colorline 12 May 2009" has become a coveted collector's item. Its raw, unfiltered energy transports listeners back to the heart of that explosive concert.

Hamburg Colorline 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Hardwired to Self Destruct
METALLICA - Hardwired to Self Destruct album front cover vinyl record

"Hardwired to Self Destruct" is the 2016 double album released by the American Speed / Thrash Metal band "Metallica". It was released 8 years after their previous album "Death Magnetic"

Hardwired to Self Destruct 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Harvester of Sorrow
METALLICA - Harvester of Sorrow album front cover vinyl record

The A-side explodes with the relentless energy of "Harvester of Sorrow." This track, a centerpiece of their landmark album "...And Justice For All," exemplifies Metallica's progressive thrash metal sound.

Harvester of Sorrow 12" Vinyl Single
METALLICA - Jump in the Fire (Dutch and English Versions)
METALLICA - Jump in the Fire (Dutch and English Versions) album front cover vinyl record

"Jump in the Fire" is a single derived from Metallica's debut studio album, "Kill 'em All", released in 1983.

- Jump in the Fire (1983, England) - Jump in the Fire (1983, Holland)
METALLICA - Jump in the Fire
METALLICA - Jump in the Fire album front cover vinyl record

The cover art for "Jump In The Fire" is as iconic as the track itself. Created by artist Les Edwards, the image features a demon-like creature surrounded by flames, inviting the listener to literally "jump in the fire."

Jump in the Fire 12" Shaped Picture Disc
METALLICA - Kill 'Em All (International Pressings)
METALLICA - Kill 'Em All (International Pressings) album front cover vinyl record

Metallica’s Kill ’Em All is the explosive debut that defined thrash metal. Released in 1983, this 12” vinyl LP is raw, aggressive, and uncompromising, blending speed, power, and razor-sharp riffs. Featuring iconic tracks like ‘Seek & Destroy’ and ‘Whiplash,’ it captures the band’s youthful intensity, setting the stage for their legendary rise in the metal world.

- Kill 'Em All ( Blackened Records ) - Kill 'em All 2LP (1983, England) - Kill 'Em All (1983, France) - Kill 'Em All (1983, Holland) - Kill 'Em All (1983, UK)
METALLICA - Legendary Garage Tapes
METALLICA - Legendary Garage Tapes album front cover vinyl record

Before the polished production of "Kill 'Em All," Metallica's sound was a volatile beast, unleashed in the cramped confines of a garage. "The Legendary Garage Tapes" serve as a time capsule, showcasing the thrash metal titans

Legendary Garage Tapes 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Live at the Playhouse Theatre
METALLICA - Live at the Playhouse Theatre album front cover vinyl record

This 500-copy limited edition is a treasure trove for devotees of Metallica's raw, uncompromising roots. The setlist reads like a greatest hits collection of their early years.

Live at the Playhouse Theatre 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Load (European & USA Releases)
METALLICA - Load (European & USA Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Metallica's "Load" is a sonic journey capturing the band's evolution. Released in 1996, the controversial album's vinyl edition enriches the listening experience, offering warmth and authenticity.

METALLICA - Load ( 2LP Blackened Records ) - Load (1996,E/M Ventures Elektra )
METALLICA - Master of Puppets (Two English Versions)
METALLICA - Master of Puppets (Two English Versions) album front cover vinyl record

Metallica's 1986 album "Master of Puppets" stands as a towering achievement in heavy metal history. Its complex compositions, blistering aggression, and socially conscious themes cemented the band's reputation as leaders

- Master of Puppets (1986, England) - Master of Puppets 2LP DMM audiophile (England)
METALLICA - Master of Puppets
METALLICA - Master of Puppets Picture Disc album front cover vinyl record

The METALLICA "Master of Puppets" 12" Vinyl Picture Disc, a 1986 UK 1st ISSUE with no barcode, is a rare gem for collectors. This limited edition features unique artwork on the vinyl picture disc, adding to its allure.

Master of Puppets 12" Vinyl Picture Disc

METALLICA - Self-Titled The Black Album

Picture Of METALLICA The Black Album 2LP album front cover

This the high-end audiophile release pressed on two 12" vinyl records each on 180 gram vinyl of the self-titled Metallica album and because of the black front and back cover, it is also known as "The Black Album".

METALLICA - Self-Titled The Black Album 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - Oberhausen Kopi Arena
METALLICA - Oberhausen Kopi Arena album front cover vinyl record

Recorded at the Kopi Arena, this album transports listeners back in time to a pivotal moment in Metallica's career. The band was riding high on the success of their album *Death Magnetic*

Oberhausen Kopi Arena 12" Vinyl LP

METALLICA - Ride The Lightning (European Releases)

Picture Of METALLICA - Ride The Lightning Blackened Records album front cover

Metallica's "Ride the Lightning" 12" Vinyl LP is a collector's gem. This iconic album marked a turning point in metal history, blending thrash metal and intricate compositions.

- Ride The Lightning (1984, England). - Ride the Lightning (Roadrunner, 1984, Holland) - Ride The Lightning (Vertigo, 1984, Netherlands) - Ride The Lightning (Blackened Records, 2006)
METALLICA - S&M
METALLICA - S&M album front cover vinyl record

This is METALLICA's ninth album, recorded live with the San Francisco Symphony on April 21-22 of 1999. The set list contains songs from Ride the Lightning through ReLoad, as well as two new songs: "- Human" and "No Leaf Clover".

S&M 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - St. Anger
METALLICA - St. Anger album front cover vinyl record

St. Anger is the eighth studio album by American heavy metal band Metallica, released on 5 June 2003. The album was originally to be released on June 10, 2003, but because of fears of extended music piracy over filesharing network

St. Anger 12" Vinyl LP
METALLICA - The 5.98 EP Garage Days Re-Revisited
METALLICA - The 5.98 EP Garage Days Re-Revisited album front cover vinyl record

Following the tragic death of bassist Cliff Burton in 1986, Metallica found themselves with a significant void to fill. With Newsted taking over bass duties, the band opted to record Garage Days

- The 5.98 EP Garage Days Re-Revisited (1987, Holland) - The 5.98 Garage Days Re-Revisited (1987, UK)
METALLICA - Until It Sleeps Red Vinyl (1996)
METALLICA - Until It Sleeps Red Vinyl (1996) album front cover vinyl record

This limited edition album "Until It Sleeps" is the first single and the fourth song from Metallica's 1996 album Load. This version is pressed on Red Vinyl and comes in a transparent sleeve.

Until It Sleeps Red Vinyl (1996) 12" Vinyl LP