Metal music, a subgenre of rock music that originated in the late 1960s and early 1970s, has experienced various levels of popularity over the years. In the United States, the popularity of metal music has waxed and waned, with certain subgenres experiencing increased popularity at certain times.
According to data from Nielsen Music, in the past decade, metal music has seen a decline in album sales and streaming numbers in the US. In 2019, metal music accounted for only 1.5% of total album consumption in the US, down from 1.9% in 2018. Furthermore, metal music has seen a decline in the number of albums sold, with the genre selling 4.7 million albums in 2019, compared to 5.1 million albums in 2018.
However, it is important to note that these numbers do not necessarily reflect the popularity of the genre, as they only take into account commercial success. The popularity of metal music can also be measured through other factors, such as concert attendance and merchandise sales.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in heavy metal, particularly among younger audiences. According to data from Ticketmaster, the average age of metal concertgoers has been steadily decreasing, with a growing number of teenagers and young adults attending metal concerts. This suggests that the genre is attracting a new generation of fans and that metal music may be experiencing a resurgence in popularity.
Additionally, the growth of social media has allowed metal artists to connect directly with fans and build a strong, dedicated fanbase. Metal artists are now able to tour more frequently, connect with fans through social media, and sell merchandise directly to fans, which has helped to sustain and grow the genre.
In conclusion, while data from Nielsen Music suggests that metal music has seen a decline in commercial success in the US in recent years, the popularity of the genre can also be measured through other factors, such as concert attendance and merchandise sales. These factors suggest that metal music may be experiencing a resurgence in popularity, particularly among younger audiences. The growth of social media has also helped to sustain and grow the genre, allowing metal artists to connect directly with fans and build a strong, dedicated fanbase.
