Widely regarded as one of the defining voices of thrash metal, Billy chronicles his life both before and after his cancer diagnosis in 2001. The book is structured in two parts: the “Old Testament” explores the birth of the band, along with the rivalries, brotherhood, and chaotic glory of the Bay Area thrash movement; while the “New Testament” reflects on the life-altering moment when he was diagnosed with cancer at age 38 and the transformation that followed.

Billy explains that he found strength through his Native American and Mexican-American heritage, as well as the unwavering support of the metal community. “This book tells two sides of my personality, which are ultimately the same story,” he says, contrasting the man who once felt invincible with the one forced to confront life’s fragility.

The memoir was co-written with television writer and producer Dave Erickson. It also features a foreword by Rob Halford and an afterword by Randy Blythe.

According to the official announcement, Holding My Breath delivers an unfiltered insider account of thrash metal’s rise, while also offering a deeply human story about mortality, miraculous recovery, cultural identity, and chosen family—making it a compelling read for longtime Testament fans and beyond.