Born Human: The Life and Music of Death’s Chuck Schuldiner

[500 pages, hardback book. Page size: 21cm x 15cm]

By David E. Gehlke.

PLEASE NOTE: PREORDERS FOR THIS BOOK WILL ONLY TAKE PLACE HERE AND ON DECIBEL'S WEBSTORE (FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE US). ONCE ALL PREORDERS HAVE BEEN SHIPPED WE WILL SHIP COPIES TO OUR EU STORE (late 2025/early 2026), BUT A PREORDER WON'T BE AVAILABLE THERE.

Decibel Books proudly presents Born Human: The Life and Music of Death’s Chuck Schuldiner, the fully authorized biography of the legendary Death frontman, offering a balanced and unprecedented look into his life and career. Born Human features exclusive interviews, contributions, stunning new Ed Repka cover art and previously unreleased, hand-selected photographs from those who knew Chuck best, bringing to life the dramatic story of the man who blazed an iconic path in metal music, laying the foundation for generations to come.  

A visionary whose groundbreaking recorded output earned him the title of “Godfather of Death Metal,” Chuck Schuldiner is one of the most influential figures in heavy metal history. Chuck channeled a tragic childhood into music that was brutal, technical, melodic and progressive, making his band, Death, a leader within the metal underground throughout the 1980s and 1990s. His uncompromising approach was accompanied by an often-tumultuous relationship with bandmates, the music industry and the press at large, obstacles he went to great lengths to overcome. When he finally found peace, Chuck was stricken with terminal brain cancer in 1999. He succumbed to the disease in 2001 after a remarkable fight that defied the odds.  

At nearly 500 pages, (including a 32-page color image section) Born Human stands as the official document of Chuck Schuldiner’s incomparable legacy. Pre-order now before its November 2025 release.