So many people seem to believe that those who choose to listen to heavy metal music are angry, maladjusted people who have difficulty relating to the real world. In reality, those who enjoy this genre of music may be better adjusted than others believe. Heavy metal music deals with topics that many other artists shy away from and as a result, their fans may be better equipped to deal with some of the issues of life that are difficult to avoid.
Some of the topics that these artists incorporate include death and betrayal by others. There are also songs that address substance abuse and the cruelty and inhumanity of cultures and leaders around the world. Songs that marry these topics with loud and fast music helps the fans and the musicians to process these negative thoughts in a healthful and energetic form. The ability to accept the fact that so much of life is beyond one’s control can, in fact, actually place those fans in control by giving them the courage to face and process these emotions and feelings in healthy and positive ways.
Allowing one’s self to be swept up in the music can be a tremendous stress reliever. The physical release that can follow the loud driving beat of the bass and the drums and the scream of the guitars can be as therapeutic as an aerobic workout. The rhythm of many of the songs can help regulate breathing and heart rate and allows the listener to experience the same benefits as time spent in meditation.
While many critics claim that this music leads listeners into poor lifestyle choices and inappropriate behaviors, in actuality, fans of this genre are often better behaved in everyday life than many others. Many have cited the lyrics and subject matter of these songs as an invitation to listeners to worship the devil and commit heinous acts. However, according to many of the musicians behind acts such as Iron Maiden, the songs and performances are all about the pageantry and performance – not about inciting riots or encouraging cruel behavior. Studies have shown that metal music helps listeners process emotions better than many other genres of music as it can help them match feelings of anger and depression and helps alleviate those feelings in a controlled and healthy manner.
There are some bands that do delve into the darker subjects and lifestyles, but in the main, the majority of metal bands trade on the pageantry and images but do not indulge in darker messages or lifestyles. Fans who are devoted to this genre as a whole are well adjusted members of society who realize the benefits of matching their moods with their chosen genre and have developed an appreciation for the melodies and harmonies that are an integral part of this musical art.
Writer Bio: Angela Mose
I am a mom of 7 who has successfully homeschooled for 20 years. I was married for more than 25 years and have recently started my life over. I have a passion for writing and music and when the two can be combined, it is utopia. A Maryland native, I am planning to relocate north in the near future and will continue to strive to learn and experience new things on a regular basis. I am fortunate enough to be able to work from home while exploring new ways to increase my knowledge and skills and help improve the lives of those around me.
