The band was formed in 1985 by vocalist King Diamond, guitarist Michael Denner, and bassist Timi Hansen. The three had recently departed from the group Mercyful Fate, which fell apart due to musical differences between King Diamond and guitarist Hank Shermann. Choosing the name "King Diamond" he quickly rounded out the line-up of the King Diamond band. King Diamond has influenced groups such as Metallica, Slayer and Lamb of God to name a few.