How Heavy Metal Music Has Influenced Society and Culture
Since its inception as a cult phenomenon in the ’60s and ’70s, heavy metal has become a genre of music that has gained a massive fanbase worldwide. Fans were instantly drawn to its aggressive sounds and dark lyrics, but just like other music genres, metal has become mainstream and has had a great impact on culture and society. Many people who don’t have any idea about metal have associated it with negative influences, but anyone reading this knows that’s a bunch of BS: studies have even shown it’s an effective stress reliever.
In its 50 year history metal has snaked its dark tentacles into many aspects of wider society and culture, so today we’ll take a look at a few examples of that.
The Music World at Large
Metal has unmistakably greatly affected the music world at large, both past and present. Several artists from the current generation of pop and rock are inspired by metal, incorporating its sound and aesthetic into their music and art. Pop star Lady Gaga is a great example, not only did she give a high-octane performance at the Grammys a few years back with Metallica but also inserted some metal inspiration into her world tour in 2017 and 2018. Another great example is Taylor Swift; her album Reputation, which was released a few years back, has a few songs inspired by metal’s gothic style and darkness. The music video of her song “Look What You Made Me Do” also carries a specific metal aesthetic.
A Common Bond in Society
There is something special about heavy metal: you know that well. But for the uninitiated, people who listen to metal have a special connection with each other. A common interest in a music genre brings a feeling of becoming an essential part of a community, and while this effect is true of many other music genres, the bond that metal fans share is unmatchable. Those who attend metal concerts with your pals don’t need to be told: you help create an incredible bond that extends beyond your own circle.
Gaming Culture
Gaming has been an important part of culture in one way or another for millennia, although typically when we say “gaming” we’re referring to the video game culture that rose to prominence in the ’70s and ’80s. And indeed, the development and the popularity of gaming and metal culture came hand in hand. Sound effects have played a significant role in gaming since the beginning of the genre, adding to the emotional effect of the games and their players’ high engagement in the gameplay. These days, metal has become a direct part of gaming culture as well. For instance, online casinos provide slots games with various themes, and metal in particular is one of the most popular slot themes among players. The Motörhead video slot is a great example. Even outside online casinos, other genres of games have also embraced metal for their soundtrack.
Fashion and Trends
Metal has had a strong influence on shopping as well. Fans have made band merchandise more popular in recent years, and that has proven an enduring trend. Big companies like H&M have heavy metal-inspired shirts and jackets for sale in their hundreds of stores across the globe. The biker or bomber jackets favored by metal artists and fans were once considered alternative but have now become a trend in the fashion industry. Studded jackets, bags, and bracelets are again trendy among the youth. Many mainstream musical artists have also been spotted wearing heavy metal music bands’ merch; for instance, Justine Bieber’s Metallica shirt on his Purpose World Tour, Travis Scott’s Slayer shirt for a magazine shoot, Kanye West’s Type O Negative t-shirt, and dozens of other celebrities. Many apparel manufacturing companies and designers use fonts inspired by heavy metal bands, helping them capitalize on “cool” trends to reach a wider customer market.
It’s Good for Mental Health
Studies have shown that rock music is good for mental health. Heavy metal in particular has been shown to relieve stress, contrary to what the mainstream might believe. Stress and anxiety are serious health problems faced by millions of people worldwide, the root of many other medical conditions if not controlled. A recent study found that metal can help process anger; listeners convert the energy and vibes from the music into physical activity that can help them process those emotions in a healthy way. As long as you’re enjoying it, it’s probably good for you! Metalheads also relate to the emotive imagery in the genre’s lyrics, which can help with their own pain. Several studies have even shown that music stimulates brain activity, and metal is no exception.
Heavy Metal and Sports
A significant number of people appreciate tuning in to music while working out in the gym or running outdoors, and studies show that doing so can help folks push themselves harder to accomplish their goals. A study conducted on cyclists in 2010 showed that the participants performed well when listening to metal or other rock genres. Many athletes prefer metal over all else as it can provide quite the energy boost, allowing them to put more effort into their exercise.
