Four Popular Bands That Still Dominate Music: Heavy Metal & Rock Edition

Never forgotten. Because their presence still prevails. Despite the genre being misconstrued and mis-interpreted as music that is full of abuse, darkness and gore, it is definitely far from the truth. Metal is a subgenre of rock-music that still prevails worldwide and where concerts create a lasting impact amongst the audience. Sure, there is no denying that heavy metal or rock music do have a few songs where the song contains heavy guitar playing, intense drum playing as the cymbals clash against one another and the singer’s vocal range is akin to that of a lion’s roar…that’s the beauty of rock and metal music.
It enables the listener’s mind to take them to a place where its just them, their minds, their thoughts and the music they are listening to. Studies have also shown that rock and metal music possess the power to reduce one’s anger and stress levels which further allows them to manage and express their emotions in a more balanced manner. Despite the past few years have seen lesser bands playing lesser shows, there is no denying that heavy metal and rock music still play a significant role in one’s day-to-day life, not to mention…redefining and rewriting what music should and shouldn’t be. Intense music has meaning. Its gives us a new meaning and a new perspective. It allows us to let go of the past and focus on the now. It allows us to be emotional, be happy or be weirdly eccentric in a healthy amount of-course, especially when it comes to dealing with our emotions.
As a lover of heavy rock and metal music, I enjoy occasionally indulging my mind in songs that allow me to feel inspired, emotional and just accept what I’m feeling in the moment that I’m in.
Synonymous with the theme, which is the ‘USA Issue’, here are some of my favorite metal and classic rock bands that still hold a very significant presence in the music scene today.

1.Metallica
Being one of the pioneers in the metal scene, Metallica is arguably one of the greatest bands of all time. A great example would be the amount of merches being sold by the band, especially t-shirts are a terrific example of that. With their insane energy that they emit during live performances and every song that radiates dynamism and passion, the loyal fanbase that the band has cultivated over the years is something that won’t die down ever. Metallica’s music is usually classified as heavy metal, but it is through their dynamic usage of hard metal which resulted in them being one of the most sought-after influential rock bands of the 80’s and 90’s scene.
Incase you are just getting started with hard-rock and metal music, might I suggest starting off with Metallica first? Song suggestions? Definitely ‘Wherever I May Roam’ before diving into ‘Master of Puppets!’

2.Linkin Park
With their powerful lyrics and dynamic style of composing their lyrics, Linkin Park always triumphed when it came to making a personal connection with their fans, including non-fans alike. As a fan of the band myself, I found the late Chester Bennington’s voice to speak to me in a manner that really brought me out of a series of dangerous situations that I was once in. Which is why I gravitate towards this band on a spiritual and special level because of how powerful words can be. The band is a walking and lyrical phenomenon that ‘Words are indeed an individual’s magic wand.’
Their music has helped many across the world get through the toughest of times and it remains an important cultural touchstone for the 2000’s music scene.

3. Mötley Crüe
Despite once being dubbed as the most ‘Notorious Rock-bands’ to walk and rock this planet, Mötley Crüe is an American heavy metal band formed in Hollywood, California in 1981. The group was founded by bassist Nikki Sixx, consisting of fellow members Vince Neil, Tommy Lee and Mick Mars. Even though there were many other acts that were similar to Motley Crue, what made them really stand out in comparison to the rest was the fact that they knew how to present themselves in a crowd and keep the audience entertained from the beginning of their show until the very end.
With excellent song-writing combined with versatile guitar and drum playing, majority of their songs were catchy, captivating and inspired the listeners to embrace their inner rebels. A good way to start off by tuning into them would be ‘Wild-Side’ before finding out who ‘Dr. Feelgood’ really was. What I can tell you is that they really do feel like Hollywood. Fans of this band will know what I mean!

4.Guns ‘n’ Roses
Combining a potent yet trailblazing blend of fine musicianship, chameleon forms of songwriting, melodic yet heavy guitar playing and drumming, Guns ‘n’ Roses was one such band that everyone had to watch out for. As a fan, I would often find myself sitting at the edge of my seat whenever I’d hear Axl Rose sing in a very distinct and unique undertone while forming with so much vigor. But when he’s off stage, his signature deep and resonant voice that would often rumble through people’s skin was something that made every fan go: “How does he do it?’’
Some of the band’s chart topping songs include ‘You could be mine’, ‘Paradise City’ and ‘Sweet Child ‘o’ Mine’.