The Evolution of Black in Music: From Film to Genre
The term 'black' has beenused across a variety of musical genres and cultural references, with its origins deeply rooted in various pieces of media, including films and music. This article explores how the term 'black' was coined and became synonymous with dark, ominous, and sinister music, culminating in the birth of the 'black' genre. We will delve into how 'Black Sabbath', 'Black Metal' by Venom, and 'Secrets of the Black Arts' contributed to this evolution.
The Beginnings: Black Sabbath
The name 'Black Sabbath' is perhaps one of the most iconic uses of the word 'black' in the context of music. It took its name from the Boris Karloff film of the same name, which was a part of the Dracula series. The band, formed in Birmingham, UK, in 1968, chose the name to emphasize their dark and ominous musical style. Their 1970 album 'Black Sabbath' is widely considered to be the first heavy metal album and set the tone for what would become a subgenre of rock music.
Black Metal Emerges: Venom’s Contribution
Over a decade later, the term 'black' took on a more specific meaning in the music world, particularly with the release of 'Black Metal' by Venom in 1982. Venom, a British band also from Birmingham, helped solidify the use of 'black' in the context of dark, aggressive, and atmospheric music. Their debut album 'Black Metal' was a groundbreaking release that redefined the heavy metal genre. Venom’s music was characterized by swift, intense riffs, growled vocals, and thunderous drums, and they were the first to use the term 'Black Metal' as a genre identifier.
The Dark Arts and Beyond
The term 'black' has always had connotations of evil, sin, and the unknown, and these associations have stayed with the genre. Bands like Dark Funeral released their album 'Secrets of the Black Arts' in 1996, further cementing the use of 'black' in titles and descriptions of dark music. Dark Funeral’s album is a perfect embodiment of the black metal genre, with its ominous and unsettling tone.
Conclusion
The introduction of the term 'black' in the context of music has significantly evoked the dark and sinister atmosphere often associated with rock and metal. From the film-inspired name of Black Sabbath to the groundbreaking work of Venom and the atmospheric ambiance of Dark Funeral's 'Secrets of the Black Arts', the evolution of 'black' in music is a fascinating journey. These bands not only shaped the genre but also made 'black' an integral part of the heavy music vocabulary, reflecting the enduring appeal of the dark and the ominous.