How Does Heavy Metal Music Relate to Elements Found in the Hippie Aesthetic

How Does Heavy Metal Music Relate to Elements Found in the Hippie Aesthetic?

The two subcultures of heavy metal and hippie music might seem worlds apart. However, if you look closely, you’ll see that they actually have quite a bit in common.

Introduction

Though they may seem like unlikely bedfellows, there are actually a number of similarities between heavy metal music and the hippie aesthetic. Both are often seen as rebellious, counter-cultural movements; both tend to celebrate individuality and non-conformity; and both heavy metal and hippie culture often make use of similar visual motifs, such as psychedelic imagery and darker, gothic aesthetics.

Of course, there are also plenty of differences between the two cultures. Heavy metal is generally much more aggressive and testosterone-fueled than the typically laid-back hippie ethos; while hippies favor peace and love, metalheads are more likely to headbang their way to oblivion. Nevertheless, the two subcultures have more in common than you might first think.

The Relationship between Heavy Metal and the Hippie Aesthetic

While heavy metal and the hippie aesthetic might seem like two completely different worlds, there are actually quite a few elements that the two have in common. Both heavy metal and the hippie aesthetic value individualism, nonconformity, and self-expression. They also both tend to favor dark and mysterious imagery.

The Visual Elements

The first and most obvious element to consider is the look. The aesthetic of heavy metal is visually quite different from that of the hippies. Metal bands are commonly adorned with dark makeup and clothing, which creates a look that is both aggressive and gothic. This look can be traced back to the 1980s, when metal bands such as Metallica and Megadeth began to experiment with macabre imagery in their music videos. This trend has continued in the present day, with modern bands like Slipknot and Marilyn Manson adopting a similar aesthetic.

In contrast, hippies are typically associated with bright colors and floral prints. This look is based on the fashion of the 1960s counterculture movement, which favored loose-fitting clothes and natural fabrics. Hippies also often wear beads and other jewelry as a way to express their unique style.

While there are some obvious differences between the two aesthetics, it is important to note that there are also some similarities. Both groups tend to favor long hair, for instance. Additionally, both groups have been known to use body art as a form of self-expression.

The Musical Elements

The relationship between heavy metal and the hippie aesthetic is quite strong. Both genres of music have a lot in common, including a DIY ethos, a love of loud and distorted sounds, and a rejection of mainstream culture.

Both genres also share a dark, rebellious streak, as well as a sense of escapism. For example, the hippie movement was often about fleeing the mundanity of everyday life, while metal is often seen as a way to escape the pain and struggles of the real world.

Musically, heavy metal and the hippie aesthetic have a lot in common. Both genres make use of electric guitars, drums, and bass guitars. Both genres also frequently make use of feedback and distortion to create their signature sounds.

Heavy metal is often seen as being more aggressive than the hippie aesthetic, but there are many similarities between the two. Both genres make use of loud and distorted sounds to create their music, and both styles are often seen as being rebellious and dark.

The Lyrical Elements

The lyrics of heavy metal songs often deal with dark and depressing topics, such as death, violence, and destruction. This is in stark contrast to the optimistic and peace-loving message of the hippie movement. However, there are some similarities between the two. For example, both groups often sing about freedom and individualism. In addition, both groups use music as a way to vent their frustration with the Establishment.

Conclusion

The two aesthetics are actually quite similar in many ways. Both heavy metal and hippie culture often incorporate fashion choices that include lots of black clothing, boots, and dark makeup. Both styles also tend to emphasize individuality and self-expression. And of course, both genres of music are known for being loud and aggressive.

So while there may not be a direct connection between heavy metal and hippie culture, there are certainly some similarities between the two. If you’re a fan of both styles, then you’ll probably enjoy the best of both worlds.