Mayhem are a Norwegian black metal band widely regarded as one of the most influential and notorious groups in the genre’s history. Emerging in the 1980s, they played a key role in defining the sound and aesthetics of black metal, blending raw aggression with dark, atmospheric elements. The band’s history is marked by groundbreaking music and a series of controversies that have become the stuff of legend over the years.

Formation and Early Years (1984–1988)

Mayhem were formed in 1984 in Oslo, Norway, by guitarist Øystein Aarseth (known as Euronymous), bassist Jørn Stubberud (Necrobutcher), and drummer Kjetil Manheim. The band’s name was inspired by the Venom song Mayhem with Mercy, a band that Mayhem were heavily influenced by. In 1986, they released their debut demo, Pure Fucking Armageddon, which showcased their chaotic and aggressive style. Their first official release, the 1987 EP Deathcrush, solidified their reputation in the underground metal scene. Though poorly received at first due to its raw production, it has since become a cult classic.

The Dead Era and Rise of Black Metal (1988–1991)

In 1988, Swedish vocalist Per Yngve Ohlin (known as Dead) joined the band. Dead brought a morbid and theatrical stage presence, often using corpse paint and self-harming during performances to create a macabre atmosphere. His deeply disturbed mental state and obsession with death heavily influenced Mayhem’s lyrics and imagery. Tragedy struck in 1991 when Dead committed suicide at a remote house the band shared. Euronymous discovered his body and, in a controversial act, took photographs before alerting authorities. One of these photos was used as the cover of a bootleg live album, adding to the band’s grim mystique. The suicide shocked the metal world and marked the beginning of a darker chapter for Mayhem.

Controversy and Violence (1991–1993)

Following Dead’s death, Mayhem began working on their debut full-length album, De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas, though without Necrobutcher who had quit on the spot when Euronymous had informed him of the pictures he had taken of Dead’s suicide. During this time, the band became heavily involved in the Norwegian black metal scene, as scene which they had basically created, which would be characterized by history for its militant ideology, anti-Christian sentiment, and criminal activities, including church burnings and violent feud. Euronymous opened a record store called Helvete (Hell) in Oslo, which became the epicenter of the black metal scene. However, tensions arose between Euronymous and Varg Vikernes (Burzum), who played bass on De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas. In 1993, these tensions culminated in Varg stabbing Euronymous to death. Varg was convicted of murder and sentenced to 21 years in prison, while De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas was released posthumously in 1994, cementing Mayhem’s legacy.

Reformation and Later Years (1994–Present)

After Euronymous’s death, Mayhem disbanded briefly but reformed in 1995 with Necrobutcher, drummer Hellhammer, and new members. Over the years, the band has gone through numerous lineup changes but continues to release music and perform live. Subsequent albums, including Grand Declaration of War (2000), Chimera (2004), and Daemon (2019), showcase their evolution while maintaining the dark essence of their early work. They have remained a controversial and polarizing figure in the metal community, with their live performances often featuring elaborate theatrics.

Legacy

Mayhem is widely regarded as one of, if not the pioneering bands of the second wave of black metal. Their music, imagery, and the myths surrounding their history have had a profound impact on the genre. Despite their controversies, they are celebrated for their artistic contributions and remain an enduring force in extreme metal.