Stryper is a Christian metal band from Orange County, California, USA. Formed in 1983, they are pioneers in the mainstream popularization of Christian metal music. Stryper enjoyed great success during the late 1980s, with one Platinum and two Gold records, before breaking up in 1992 at a time when most metal groups of the 1980s were losing popularity. However, the band reunited in 2003 and are attempting a comeback in the Christian music world.

The name "Stryper" derives from the King James Version of Isaiah 53:5:

"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."

The scriptural reference is also part of Stryper's logo on most of their releases. (They also incorporate stripes into most of their outfits and their logo.) In addition, the band's name has been said to stand for:

"Salvation Through Redemption, Yielding Peace, Encouragement, and Righteousness."

IN THE BEGINNING Stryper, originally known as Roxx Regime, was formed in Orange County, California by brothers Michael and Robert Sweet and guitarist Oz Fox. Stryper stands for Salvation Through Redemption Yielding Peace, Encouragement and Righteousness. The Isaiah 53:5 under their logo is the bible verse that states “by His stripes we are healed”. The band earned their stripes on the Los Angeles metal club circuit and in 1984, after recruiting bass player Tim Gaines, signed with Enigma Reco