Metal Contraband News For February 3rd, 2026:
This week in Metal Contraband:
January 22nd, 2026, the metal world gathered for the annual tradition of the Metal Hall of Fame, but this time as a L.A.-based Blowout Bash, taking over the Sunset Strip at the Rainbow, The Roxy, and The Viper Room. The takeover celebrated the legacy of 80’s rock and metal that thrives on the Sunset Strip, highlighting bands like Ratt, Poison, W.A.S.P, Guns N’ Roses, and L.A. Guns.
Hosted once again by Eddie Trunk and Cathy Rankin, this year’s Hall of Fame inducted Rikki Rockett, Tracii Guns, Gilby Clarke, Warren DeMartini, and Chris Holmes. There was no shortage of Metal Hall of Fame alums present, with appearances and performances from Skateboard Marketing’s own Munsey Ricci, Carlos Cavazo, Graham Bonnet, Chris Impellitteri, and more.
The Metal Hall Of Fame Board Of Directors, including Wendy Dio, Michael Sarna, Founder Pat Gesualdo, Brian Perera, David Ellefson, George Johnsen & Munsey Ricci, were all present for the event. Artists and personalities who made appearances include: Tommy Bolan, Ken Mary, Wicked, Dino Jelusick, Chained Saint, Sean McNabb, Doug Aldrich, Tony Harnell, Jeff Pilson, Marc Ferrari, Tommy London, Britt Lightning, Oni Logan, Keith St. John, and Becky Baldwin.
The induction ceremony was a fantastic blend of fun and heartfelt speeches and energized performances, celebrating classic Sunset Strip hits from the inductees’ bands while showcasing their talents in a unique jam-style lineup of combined band members. The Metal Hall of Fame is always a great time, with such an electrifying energy of gathering so many people – artists and fans alike – in one space to show their sincere love of metal.
Check out some red carpet interviews on the Skateboard Marketing official YouTube Channel here:
https://youtu.be/grz7UIu9J80?si=lSaxbY8SMEZDFlWu
The Metal Hall of Fame also kicked off the week of NAMM 2026, so keep an eye out for NAMM content coming soon – we’re already looking forward to the Metal Hall of Fame next year!
Chart Editor: Munsey Ricci from Skateboard Marketing Ltd.
Editorial By Chelsea Nelson-Fernandez & Munsey Ricci
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