We are saddened to report Megaforce Records co-founder Jon Zazula has passed away. According to Variety, Zazula passed away earlier today (1st) surrounded by his brother, daughters, granddaughters, and friends. He became a legend who launched the iconic label, which brought us Metallica’s debut album, Kill ‘Em All, along with many renowned artists, including Anthrax, Raven, and Testament. He was 69-years old and left just over a year after his wife, Marsha, passed away in January 2021.
Zazula has left such an acclaimed landmark, as he was known for taking risks, surpassing the 9-5 hour days, building a career that many would only dream of having. A legend who started out owning a Record Store to build Megaforce Records in 1982. With a history of remarkable events and an inspiring career, Zazula shared his tales in his latest book, Heavy Tales: The Metal. The Music. The Madness. As lived by Jon Zazula, which was released in 2019. Metal Insider was lucky to speak with Zazula, as he expressed how building Megaforce helped keep him sane and learned how to always push forward and think ahead. He will be remembered as such, and our thoughts go out to Zazula’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Members in the metal community are crushed by this news as tributes are being shared on social media:
The world of rock and metal would not be what it is today without Jon Zazula.
Jon’s love of music and musicians was unwavering. A giant was lost today.
Rest In Peace Jon. pic.twitter.com/fiMt444mMn
— Megaforce Records (@megaforce) February 1, 2022
So sad to hear of the passing of Jon Zazula. He was east coast and I was west coast in the early days of metal. He worked with so many amazing bands #ripjonzazula
— Brian Slagel (@brianslagel) February 1, 2022
The heavy metal community has suffered a tremendous loss today. Jon Zazula was a true legend and trailblazer who changed the course of this genre forever. Many of us owe our careers and livelihoods to him, whether it be directly or indirectly. #MetalGod
— Season of Mist (@SeasonofMist) February 1, 2022
💔💔💔💔💔💔💔😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭Goodnight!!! I’ll see you when I get there so wait up!!!! RIP Jon Zazula #devastated #BeyondWords #brokenhearted #RIP pic.twitter.com/JjqFPRxmG9
— Venom Inc (@venom_inc) February 1, 2022
Thanks for believing and taking a chance, you absolute legend.
Rest in Peace.
Jon Zazula. pic.twitter.com/gUHBmEriwB— Higgo (@Higgo74) February 1, 2022
