Banzai Records, founded in 1983 in Italy, emerged as a significant player in the music industry during the 1980s and 1990s. Initially focusing on rock and heavy metal, the label gained prominence by signing notable artists such as the Italian band Strana Officina and the power metal group Labyrinth. Banzai was instrumental in promoting the Italian metal scene, releasing several influential albums that helped shape the genre in the country. Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Banzai expanded its catalog to include various genres, including punk and alternative rock, showcasing bands like Negazione and the pop-rock group Timoria. The label's commitment to nurturing local talent contributed to its legacy within the Italian music landscape. Although Banzai's prominence waned in the late 1990s, its impact on the Italian music scene remains notable, having played a crucial role in the development of rock and metal in Italy.