Christian Death
Christian Death is a death rock band formed in October 1979 in Los Angeles, California. The group was founded by vocalist Rozz Williams, bassist James McGearty, drummer George Belanger, and guitarist Jay from the previous band Daucus Karota. After going on hiatus briefly in 1981, they reformed with Rikk Agnew replacing Jay on guitar. Over the years, there were several lineup changes and tensions within the band. In 1985, Rozz left just before a European tour, leaving Valor as the sole proprietor of Christian Death.
In 1991, Valor's second wife Maitri joined the project and this new version of Christian Death combined dark heavy metal influences with Gothic rock. Meanwhile, Rozz and Rikk Agnew also played reunion shows using the name Christian Death but faced legal issues with Valor over ownership of the band name. Unfortunately, Rozz committed suicide in 1998.
Despite these challenges, Valor and Maitri continue to record and tour as Christian Death today. Their music is characterized by classical forays mixed with Gothic rock elements that have made them one of the most influential bands in their genre.