Watch Golden Gods Awards

The Golden Gods Awards is a musical program that premiered in 2009 on VH1 Classic. Hosted by comedian and metal enthusiast Brian Posehn, the event honors hard rock and heavy metal artists in a variety of categories, including Best Guitarist, Best Drummer, Best Live Band, and Best Metal Album. The program also features live performances from some of the biggest names in heavy metal, as well as special appearances by notable figures in the world of hard rock.

The inaugural event featured a number of standout moments, including a special tribute to the legendary Ronnie James Dio, who passed away earlier that year. Dio, best known for his work with Black Sabbath and his solo career, was a true icon of the heavy metal genre, known for his powerful vocals, dynamic stage presence, and charismatic persona. The tribute featured performances by a number of Dio's peers and protégés, including Queensrÿche frontman Geoff Tate, Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian, and Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford.

Other highlights from the program included a performance by thrash metal legends Slayer, who played their classic track "Raining Blood" to rapturous applause from the audience, as well as a show-stopping set from Mastodon, who performed their hit single "Divinations" in front of a packed house. The show also featured appearances by Chuck Billy, lead vocalist for thrash metal pioneers Testament, who presented the award for Best Guitarist, and Lita Ford, former guitarist for glam metal icons The Runaways, who presented the award for Best Metal Album.

Throughout the program, Posehn kept the energy high with his irreverent humor and infectious enthusiasm for the genre. A longtime fan of heavy metal, Posehn injected his own personality into the proceedings, riffing on everything from his own love of the music to the quirks of the artists themselves. His easy rapport with the audience and his guests helped to create a lively, fun atmosphere that kept viewers engaged and entertained throughout the night.

Overall, the Golden Gods Awards was a triumphant celebration of heavy metal in all its forms, from classic hard rock to thrash to death metal and beyond. By combining exciting live performances with heartfelt tributes and tongue-in-cheek humor, the program captured the spirit of the genre while paying tribute to the artists who have helped to make it what it is today. It's no wonder that the Golden Gods Awards have become an eagerly anticipated annual event, drawing some of the biggest names in metal and legions of dedicated fans from around the world.