Feature image photo credit: Roy Rochlin/Getty images
Chuck Billy is one of the most iconic frontmen of thrash metal. Shortly after joining the band Legacy in 1986, the band would change their name to Testament, and now 40 years later Chuck still remains the band’s vocalist. Testament stands as one of the most respected thrash bands of all time. On October 10th, 2025, Testament released their 14th studio album, Para Bellum. More recently they released a remastered edition of the Testament classic album Practice What You Preach. And on November 10th, 2026 we will see the release of Chuck’s memoir, Holding My Breath: The Two Testaments Of Chuck Billy.
In this interview, Chuck tells us what we can expect from his upcoming memoir and how his 2001 cancer diagnosis divided his life into two testaments. He also tells us about the current state of the band and discusses their most recent release, Para Bellum. Chuck also talks about his spiritual journey, his bucket list, and Testament coffee.
Order Chuck’s memoir, Holding My Breath: The Two Testaments Of Chuck Billy, at:chuckbillybook.com
“Infanticide A.I.” video:
Follow Testament online:
Hello everyone! My name is Scott Itter, but some know me as Dr. Music. I am a music journalist and photographer out of the Chicagoland area, and I have been in practice for over 20 years. I grew up in the 70’s with two big brothers that showed me all kinds of rock and roll. As I grew older I ventured out into different genres like jazz, funk, folk, and whatever else I could wrap my ears around. As I read every liner note and every Circus and Hit Parader like they were the Old and New Testament, I came to realize that I just love sound and appreciate all the people that create it.
I later became a stay-at-home dad and started honing my writing and photography skills to keep my mind from turning into mashed peas. My kids are now adults, my mind is only slightly mushy, and I am thrilled to have the honor of presenting my work to you!