History of World Painted Blood in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 15, 2025

World Painted Blood is the eleventh studio album by the thrash metal band Slayer, released on November 3, 2009. Produced by Greg Fidelman and executively produced by Rick Rubin, it is notable for being the only album produced by Fidelman and the last featuring Slayer's original lineup, including guitarist Jeff Hanneman and drummer Dave Lombardo. Information about the album was revealed beginning in early 2009, generating anticipation following their 2006 release, Christ Illusion.

1986: Collaboration with Rubin

In 1986, Slayer began their collaboration with Rubin on Reign in Blood, where he worked with the band as their producer or executive producer. World Painted Blood marks the band's final album to be released through American Recordings, as well as the final collaboration between Slayer and Rubin.

2006: Christ Illusion Album

In 2006, Slayer released Christ Illusion. Unlike Christ Illusion, the band was "under-ready" with their lyrics and music for World Painted Blood.

March 2009: Recording of World Painted Blood

In March 2009, Slayer recorded their album World Painted Blood in Los Angeles, California with producer Greg Fidelman. During these sessions, 13 songs were recorded for the album, but only 11 made the final cut.

April 18, 2009: "Psychopathy Red" Vinyl Release

On April 18, 2009, "Psychopathy Red," a song inspired by the Soviet serial killer Andrei Chikatilo, was released as a limited edition, blood-red seven-inch vinyl disc as part of the third annual Record Store Day.

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May 2009: King's Comments on the Album

In May 2009, Kerry King shared his thoughts on the album, noting that it had a little bit of everything, reminiscent of their album Seasons. He also confirmed that the band had recorded thirteen songs, with seven written by Jeff Hanneman and six by King.

August 20, 2009: Track Listing Confirmed

On August 20, 2009, Roadrunner Records confirmed the track listing for World Painted Blood.

September 15, 2009: Album Artwork Revealed

On September 15, 2009, the artwork for World Painted Blood was revealed, featuring four different covers that, when put together, create a world map covered in blood.

October 20, 2009: "Hate Worldwide" Limited Edition Single Release

On October 20, 2009, "Hate Worldwide" was released as a limited-edition single through Columbia Records as a CD. The song was made available exclusively at Hot Topic stores and was streamed at Hot Topic's ShockHound.com.

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October 30, 2009: Listening Party in Brooklyn

On October 30, 2009, a listening party for World Painted Blood was held at Duff's Brooklyn in Williamsburg, New York, starting at 9:00 PM.

November 3, 2009: World Painted Blood Album Release

On November 3, 2009, World Painted Blood, Slayer's eleventh studio album, was released through American Recordings and Sony Music. The album was produced by Greg Fidelman and executively produced by Rick Rubin.