The best era for heavy metal music is subjective and can vary greatly based on personal preferences and musical taste. It is essential to understand that heavy metal music has undergone numerous changes and evolution since its inception in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
According to the book “Heavy Metal Music in Britain” by M. Christopher Hebert, the roots of heavy metal music can be traced back to blues rock and hard rock bands such as Cream, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath, who laid the foundation for the genre during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Many consider the 1970s to be the golden age of heavy metal music, as it was during this time that the genre established its sound and style. Bands such as Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, and Motley Crue emerged and gained popularity, solidifying heavy metal‘s place in the music world. The 1980s saw the emergence of several sub-genres of heavy metal, including thrash metal and glam metal, which further diversified the genre.
However, it is essential to note that the 1990s saw a decline in the popularity of heavy metal music, as alternative and grunge music dominated the charts. Despite this, the genre continued to evolve and thrive, with several notable bands, such as Metallica, Slayer, and Pantera, releasing critically acclaimed albums.
In the 2000s and beyond, heavy metal music continued to evolve, with the emergence of several new sub-genres, such as metalcore and deathcore, that have gained a significant following. The popularity of heavy metal has seen a resurgence in recent years, with several established and new bands continuing to tour and release albums to a dedicated fan base.
In conclusion, the best era for heavy metal music is subjective and dependent on personal preferences and musical taste. Heavy metal has undergone numerous changes and evolution since its inception, and its popularity has seen ups and downs over the years. Nevertheless, the genre continues to thrive and evolve, with new and established bands continuing to tour and release albums to a dedicated fan base.
Sources:
- Hebert, M. Christopher. (2017). Heavy Metal Music in Britain. Ashgate Publishing, Ltd.
