The “big four” in metal music refers to a collection of four iconic heavy metal bands who are widely considered to be the most influential and successful of their genre. These bands are Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax. These four bands are referred to as the “big four” due to their widespread popularity, critical acclaim, and longevity, as well as their significant impact on the development and evolution of heavy metal music.
Metallica, formed in 1981, is widely considered to be one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time. The band’s early music, characterized by its fast tempos, intricate guitar work, and aggressive vocal delivery, helped to establish the subgenre of thrash metal. In the 1990s, Metallica expanded its musical style, incorporating elements of other genres, such as hard rock and heavy metal, into its sound, which helped to popularize heavy metal music to a wider audience. Today, Metallica remains one of the most successful and well-known heavy metal bands in the world, with numerous platinum-selling albums and a devoted fanbase.
Slayer, formed in 1981, is another influential band in the “big four.” The band’s music, characterized by its fast tempos, aggressive guitar work, and extreme lyrics, helped to establish the subgenre of thrash metal. Slayer’s music has been noted for its incorporation of elements from other musical genres, such as punk rock and death metal, which has helped to further evolve the heavy metal genre. Slayer remains a popular and influential band, with numerous gold-selling albums and a dedicated fanbase.
Megadeth, formed in 1983, is a heavy metal band that is known for its technical proficiency, intricate guitar work, and aggressive vocal delivery. The band’s early music helped to establish the subgenre of thrash metal, and its later music incorporated elements of other musical genres, such as progressive metal and hard rock, which helped to further evolve the heavy metal genre. Megadeth remains a popular and influential band, with numerous gold-selling albums and a dedicated fanbase.
Anthrax, formed in 1981, is the final member of the “big four.” The band’s music, characterized by its fast tempos, intricate guitar work, and aggressive vocal delivery, helped to establish the subgenre of thrash metal. Anthrax’s music has been noted for its incorporation of elements from other musical genres, such as punk rock and hard rock, which has helped to further evolve the heavy metal genre. Anthrax remains a popular and influential band, with numerous gold-selling albums and a dedicated fanbase.
In conclusion, the “big four” in metal music refers to Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax, four iconic heavy metal bands that are widely considered to be the most influential and successful of their genre. These bands have helped to establish and evolve the heavy metal genre, and their music continues to be popular and widely respected. The “big four” are an integral part of heavy metal history and are revered by metal fans worldwide.
