Misconceptions in Metal: Bands That Shouldn't Be Considered Metal
When it comes to categorizing bands as 'metal,' certain groups often face debates among both metal purists and casual listeners. This article explores some bands that, despite industry recognition or general acceptance, might not fit comfortably into the metal genre.
Mercyful Fate: Satanic Rockers, Not Metal
One of the most intriguing cases is Mercyful Fate. While they are often cited as an influence on metal, particularly the band 'Corpse Paint,' Mercyful Fate is more accurately described as a satanic rock act rather than a metal band. The band's music, led by King Diamond with his distinctive voice and theatrical live performances, often tilts towards dark and theatrical rock with influences from blues and heavy metal. Initiated by King Diamond in 1979, Mercyful Fate left a lasting legacy but is best categorized as a subgenre of rock rather than straight metal.
The National Academy's Controversial Nomination: Jethro Tull
The inclusion of Jethro Tull in the 'Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance Vocal or Instrumental' category at the 1989 Grammy Awards is a controversial topic. Jethro Tull, known for their unique blend of rock, jazz, and classical elements, won this award over several metal heavyweights including Metallica and AC/DC. This decision highlights the complex nature of genre classification in the music industry.
Trivia: When asked about their nomination, frontman Ian Anderson is quoted as saying, "Why were we even nominated for this at all?" This statement underscores the disconnect between Jethro Tull's style and what many consider to be the metal genre.
Motorhead: The Rock'n’Rollers
Another band that often faces questions about its metal credentials is Motorhead. While they are technically classified as an extreme metal band, they are more accurately described as a fast-paced mix of hard blues rock, punk, and garage rock. This fusion of styles has led to debates about whether they fit the traditional 'metal' mold. Despite their iron-clad insistence on the "rock 'n' roll" moniker, their music often defies simple classification, making them a contentious subject in the metal community.
The Origins of 'Heavy Metal'
The term 'heavy metal' was first used by rock critic Lester Bangs in the 1970s. Bangs described 'Sir Lord Baltimore' by the band of the same name as 'having all the heavy metal tricks.' Although this early use of the term didn't solidify a specific genre, the term became more defined with the rise of bands like Black Sabbath, which laid the groundwork for the metal genre as we know it today.
Did You Know? Black Sabbath is often credited as the 'inventors' of heavy metal, although other bands like Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple were also influential. However, with the emergence of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) in the late 1970s, metal became a more clearly defined genre. Once this happened, Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple's more experimental and blues-oriented work no longer fit the new mold of what would become 'heavy metal.'
In conclusion, while certain bands like Mercyful Fate, Jethro Tull, and Motorhead are often debated in terms of their suitability within the metal genre, their unique contributions to rock music and their influence on subsequent generations of musicians and fans cannot be denied. The debate around genre classification is a complex and ongoing discussion that highlights the ever-evolving nature of popular music.
Regardless of their classification, these bands have left indelible marks on the landscape of rock music, making their influence felt across multiple genres and generations of listeners.