W.A.S.P. is an American heavy metal band formed in 1982 which gained notoriety for its "shock rock"-image, music and live performances. The band, formed in Los Angeles, California, initially consisted of Blackie Lawless, Rik Fox, Randy Piper and Tony Richards. The band initially became famous for its raunchy and at times shocking live shows; Lawless was known to tie semi-naked models to a torture rack and hurl raw meat into the audience. ...show more

W.A.S.P. is an American heavy metal band formed in 1982 which gained notoriety for its "shock rock"-image, music and live performances. The band, formed in Los Angeles, California, initially consisted of Blackie Lawless, Rik Fox, Randy Piper and Tony Richards. The band initially became famous for its raunchy and at times shocking live shows; Lawless was known to tie semi-naked models to a torture rack and hurl raw meat into the audience.

The band's debut single, entitled Animal (Fuck Like A Beast), was equally controversial. The initial line up didn't last for long, as Rik Fox left the band to join (then unknown) vocalist Ron Keel & guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen in the band Steeler. He was replaced with Don Costa. Shortly after that, Don Costa also left the band and his position on the bass was filled by Lawless.

At the same time, guitarist Chris Holmes joined the band. W.A.S.P. signed to Capitol Records for their debut LP, W.A.S.P., on August 17, 1984. The debut album was at one time planned for release under the name "Winged Assassins". ...show less