The birth of heavy metal: A sonic revolution that changed music forever. It's a genre that has captivated millions with its raw power and rebellious spirit. But where did it all begin? Who laid the foundation for the headbanging anthems we know and love?
Before the 1970s, rock music was already evolving, becoming heavier and more intense. Pioneers of the 1950s, though arguably making 'heavy music' for their time, paved the way for further experimentation. Some were horrified by these changes, fearing that heavier guitars would incite rebellion. You can hear the raw intensity in songs like Link Wray's 1958 hit, 'Rumble.'
Fast forward, and guitars became even more aggressive. The distortion on The Kinks' 'You Really Got Me' (1964) was heavier than anything before, but it wasn't quite metal yet. We were on the cusp, inching closer to the sound that would define a generation.
Led Zeppelin got close to metal towards the late 1960s, but with significant blues influence, it's often categorized as hard rock. The birth of heavy metal was imminent.
Most agree that Black Sabbath's self-titled debut album in 1970 marked the true beginning of heavy metal. Judas Priest's Rob Halford, speaking to Rolling Stone in 2020, proclaimed Black Sabbath as the genre's true pioneers, stating it left a lasting mark with its groundbreaking sound. He emphasized their shared roots, saying they 'grew up together, inventing this great music we love and cherish so much called heavy-metal music.'
Halford explained that the album established Black Sabbath's identity, much like Priest's early records. He highlighted the album's unique texture, tone, structure, and Ozzy Osbourne's distinctive voice, calling it a defining record.
It might seem obvious to declare Black Sabbath the first metal album, but its radical departure from the norm and its blueprint for the genre make it undeniable. Without Black Sabbath, countless other metal acts may not have existed, or perhaps the genre wouldn't exist at all.
But here's where it gets controversial... Do you agree with Halford? Are there other bands that could be considered the true originators of heavy metal? What do you think about the evolution of metal music? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
