Broadzilla: Detroit's Heavy Metal Queens Who Conquered Stages Across Two Continents
In the gritty music scene of Detroit, few bands have commanded as much respect and longevity as Broadzilla, the heavy metal trio that has been crushing stages and breaking barriers since 1996. Founded by singer-guitarist Rachel May, this all-female powerhouse emerged from the Motor City's underground with a mission to prove that women could deliver metal just as hard and fierce as their male counterparts.
The band's journey began with May assembling an ambitious lineup that included bassist Michelle Chapman, guitarist Marlene Hammerle, and drummer Jen Moffitt. This original formation quickly made their mark with the self-titled EP Broadzilla, released on cassette in 1996, establishing their raw, uncompromising sound that would become their signature.
As Broadzilla evolved, so did their lineup, with drummer Angie Manly joining in 1997 and bringing a thunderous rhythm section that would anchor the band's sound for years to come. The late 1990s saw guitarist Melody Baetens briefly join the fold, though her contribution was more symbolic than substantial on their breakthrough album Broadzilla vs. the Tramp-o-Lean in 1999.
The new millennium brought significant changes and achievements for Broadzilla. Bassist Kim Essiambre joined in early 2000, completing what would become the band's most successful and enduring lineup. This trio of Rachel May, Angie Manly, and Kim Essiambre created a chemistry that would propel them to unprecedented heights in the Detroit music scene and beyond.
Recognition came swiftly and decisively. In April 2001, Broadzilla claimed their first Detroit Music Award for best hard rock/heavy metal artist, beginning a remarkable winning streak that would see them dominate this category for years. Their success wasn't just ceremonial – it reflected genuine artistic growth and commercial appeal that resonated with metal fans across the region.
The band's second album, Lady Luck, released in October 2001, became their commercial breakthrough, selling over 20,000 copies and featuring the standout track Ecstasy, complete with a full music video that showcased their visual appeal alongside their musical prowess. The album also demonstrated their versatility with a cover of Diana Ross and the Supremes' Love Child and innovative remixes by Detroit techno DJ Sean Deason.
International recognition followed domestic success when Broadzilla embarked on their first UK tour in August 2003. This transatlantic venture proved so successful that they returned twice more, including prestigious appearances at the annual Bulldog Bash music festival. These tours established them as a global act capable of connecting with audiences far beyond their Detroit roots.
Throughout the 2000s, Broadzilla continued their dominance at the Detroit Music Awards, collecting trophies in 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, and 2007. This consistency spoke to their ability to remain relevant and innovative in an ever-changing musical landscape while maintaining the core identity that made them distinctive.
The band's influence extended beyond their own music, with former members like Marlene Hammerle finding success in other notable Detroit acts such as the Gore Gore Girls. This cross-pollination of talent helped cement Broadzilla's role as an incubator for female metal musicians and a cornerstone of Detroit's heavy music community.
Today, Broadzilla stands as a testament to persistence, talent, and the power of authentic heavy metal. Their journey from a cassette-only EP to international touring acts demonstrates that genuine artistry, combined with relentless dedication, can overcome any obstacle. In a genre often dominated by male voices, they've carved out their own space and inspired countless others to follow their lead.