"Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" marks the explosive debut studio album by the American thrash metal band Megadeth, unleashed on June 12, 1985, under Combat Records. Despite facing production challenges—leading to the band taking over production due to budget constraints—the album emerged as a pivotal release in the thrash metal scene.
Exploring themes of death, occultism, and violence, the album's raw intensity captivated audiences and critics alike, earning strong reviews from various music publications. Notably, it played a crucial role in solidifying thrash metal as a distinct and authentic subgenre within heavy metal music.
Featuring tracks like "Mechanix," a song originally performed by frontman Dave Mustaine during his tenure with Metallica, and a controversial cover of "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'," the album made waves in the metal community. Despite changes in setlists over the years, "Mechanix" remains a staple in Megadeth's live performances.
Over the years, the album received deluxe reissues, including a remixed and remastered edition in 2002, featuring new artwork and bonus tracks. Another remastered version, titled "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good! - The Final Kill," surfaced in 2018, boasting re-recorded vocals for "These Boots" among other enhancements, ensuring the album's enduring legacy in the annals of metal history.
