Our own Sarah MacDonald had the chance to sit down with Mark Slaughter of the legendary rock band Slaughter to talk about the group’s enduring legacy and the passion that has kept them going for decades. Mark opened up about the band’s incredible longevity, their fiercely loyal fanbase, and the creative spark driving their upcoming projects. We also touched on their much-anticipated return to Atlantic Canada—a date fans in the region have been eagerly awaiting. It was a candid and energetic chat that highlights why Slaughter continues to hold a special place in the hearts of rock fans everywhere.
SM: Slaughter has been active since the late ’80s—what do you feel has been key to the band’s longevity in such a shifting musical landscape?
MS: We are the only band from our genre that wrote, produced and still perform those songs to this day. The music is close to our hearts and for this the emotional bond is always present
SM: How do you feel your early sound has evolved over the years, and what elements have stayed true from the beginning?
MS: The songs are still true to the form to this day. I believe the live band has more energy, which certainly makes it a damn good show.
SM: Slaughter has always blended melody with heavier rock energy. How intentional is that balance during songwriting?
MS: Absolutely intentional. The band is much harder live than in recordings. It begins with the song and live energy keeps perpetuating on every show.
SM: What does a Slaughter show in 2025 look and feel like compared to the early tours?
MS: Sound and lights are much better. I feel the live band has improved immensely.
SM: Are there any songs you feel differently about performing today than when they were first released?
MS: The songs are and always will be a part of us. Therefore, it’s always about our relationship with those songs and the audience.
SM: What challenges do rock bands face today that didn’t exist in the ’80s and ’90s?
MS: Technology has changed everything – good and bad. The good home recording gives an artist musical freedom. The bad no one pays for recorded music anymore due to streaming.
SM: How has the dynamic among band members changed over the years?
MS: Dana Strum and I have been in it from the beginning. Jeff Blando joined the band in 1998 after the tragic death of Tim Kelly. Jordan Canatta our drummer has been in the band for 3 years. I’m proud to step on the stage with these fine gentlemen and I am forever thankful for there friendship and talent.
SM: Is there something you’ve learned about yourselves as artists after decades in the industry?
MS: Always strive to be better!
SM: Slaughter fans are incredibly loyal—what’s one memorable fan interaction that has stuck with you?
MS: We have 2 fans / friends that are driving to this show I believe it is their 104th show. That level of commitment and love never goes unnoticed. We are truly blessed to have had such dedicated fans.
SM: Why do you think your music continues to resonate across generations?
MS: Songs are a timestamp of where you were and what has happened along the way. Music does that for us as well. Nothing brings back memories like music does!
SM: Is there anything you hope listeners take away emotionally from your music?
MS: Always be positive, enjoy life and raise your glass to celebrate the fact that we are still here floating through space on this spinning rock.
SM: Are you working on any new music, re-releases, or special projects right now?
MS: Working on a documentary about the band, and we’ll keep ya posted when it’s done!
SM: What do you still hope to accomplish as a band moving forward?
MS: Celebrate all of the above. Many thanks for the years we’ll see ya at the show in Moncton!