Chuck Billy: Holding My Breath

Legendary Testament frontman Chuck Billy and Metal Church bassist David Ellefson (former Megadeth) discuss Chuck's memoir Holding My Breath. Legendary Testament frontman Chuck Billy and Metal Church bassist David Ellefson (former Megadeth) discuss Chuck's memoir Holding My Breath—chronicling his stubborn roots in a Native American and Mexican-American family, his rise through the explosive Bay Area thrash metal scene, and his defiant battle against cancer, complete with spiritual healings, the iconic Thrash of the Titans benefit that revived the genre, and the unbreakable will that turned a near-death diagnosis into a triumphant second act of life, music, and brotherhood. SIGNING GUIDELINES — Book purchase from Changing Hands required (one book = one seat) — Meet-and-greet and photo line follows the presentation — All books will be pre-signed. No personalization. — Chuck will sign one (1) piece of Testament memorabilia per ticket-holder ABOUT THE BOOK Holding My Breath: The Two Testaments of Chuck Billy is the raw, inspiring memoir of Testament’s legendary frontman, chronicling his stubborn roots in a Native American and Mexican-American family, his rise through the explosive Bay Area thrash metal scene, and his defiant battle against cancer—complete with spiritual healings, the iconic Thrash of the Titans benefit that revived the genre, and the unbreakable will that turned a near-death diagnosis into a triumphant second act of life, music, and brotherhood. From the relentless stages of Bay Area thrash metal to the brink of death and back, Holding My Breath is the unflinching memoir of Testament’s iconic frontman. Raised in a resilient Native American and Mexican-American family, Chuck Billy forged his path through rebellion, raw talent, and unbreakable stubbornness—becoming the powerful voice behind one of thrash’s most enduring bands. But at thirty-eight, a devastating cancer diagnosis threatened to silence him forever. With the fierce support of the metal community—including the legendary Thrash of the Titans benefit that rallied old rivals and reignited brotherhood—Chuck faced grueling treatments, profound spiritual journeys, and the fight of his life. This is the story of a man who refused to let go, discovering that true strength comes not just from holding your breath until the world bends, but from learning to breathe again—stronger, wiser, and surrounded by family, both blood and chosen. A raw testament to survival, music, and the unbreakable bonds that define a life in metal. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Chuck Billy is the powerhouse lead singer of Testament, one of thrash metal’s original Bay Area legends since the 1980s. He beat cancer back in 2001 and came out stronger, often weaving his Native American (Pomo) roots into his life and lyrics. He’s been honored with a California State Assembly recognition for his positive influence on Native communities and snagged a “Best Music Video” win at the American Indian Film Festival for “Native Blood.” ABOUT THE MODERATOR Best known for spending nearly three decades as the bassist for thrash metal titans Megadeth—earning 10 Grammy nominations and countless gold and platinum records—David Ellefson has built a multifaceted career across music and business. Beyond Megadeth, he has recorded with projects including Soulfly, F5, and Metal Allegiance, and written the books My Life With Deth and More Life With Deth. Ellefson holds a degree in business marketing, lectures on the music industry, leads EMP Label Group, and founded Ellefson Coffee Co.