nu metal Concerts

Find upcoming concerts of popular nu metal touring artists.

Nu metal, also known as nü-metal, is a subgenre of alternative metal that emerged in the late 1990s and gained popularity throughout the early 2000s. It combines heavy metal elements with influences from hip-hop, funk, and alternative rock. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, bands like Pantera, Helmet, and Faith No More played crucial roles in shaping nu metal through their groove metal and alternative metal styles. Korn is often credited as the pioneer of nu metal in the mid-1990s. The genre gained widespread popularity in the late 1990s, with chart-topping albums from bands like Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Slipknot. This popularity extended into the early 2000s, with multi-platinum success for acts such as Papa Roach, Staind, and P.O.D. Linkin Park's diamond-selling album, "Hybrid Theory", marked the pinnacle of nu metal's popularity, becoming the best-selling rock album of the 21st century. However, by the mid-2000s, oversaturation of bands and the underperformance of some high-profile releases led to the decline of nu metal. This shift paved the way for the rise of metalcore, and many nu metal bands either disbanded or moved away from their established sound in favor of other genres.

MUSICALITY

Musically, nu metal incorporates the aggressive guitar riffs, basslines, and drumming of traditional metal. However, it adds elements such as down-tuned guitars, funk-inspired grooves, samples, and turntable scratching. The genre often features a mix of clean and harsh vocals, with rap and spoken-word styles also being common.

Nu metal bands often infuse an experimental and alternative style, with unconventional song structures and incorporate electronic elements, creating a unique blend of heaviness and catchy hooks. The genre's sound is characterized by its rhythmic complexity, combining the raw energy of metal with the groove-oriented nature of hip-hop and funk.

THEMES

Lyrically, nu metal explores a variety of themes, often addressing personal struggles, anger, frustration, and social issues. The lyrics can touch upon topics like inner turmoil, mental health, societal alienation, addiction, and personal empowerment. Nu metal's lyrics often reflect the emotional intensity and angst of its audience, providing a cathartic outlet for self-expression.

The genre also addresses broader social and political themes, such as inequality, injustice, and the challenges faced by the younger generation. Nu metal songs often offer a sense of solidarity, urging listeners to find strength in their individuality and confront adversity.

FAMOUS ARTISTS

Nu metal has seen the rise of numerous influential artists who have made significant contributions to the genre. Some notable nu metal artists include Deftones, Slipknot, Korn, Limp Bizkit, P.O.D., Mudvayne, Drowning Pool, and Ill Niño. These bands have achieved commercial success, critical acclaim, and have garnered dedicated fan bases. Each band brings its own unique style and approach to nu metal, contributing to the genre's diversity and evolution.

The 2010s saw a resurgence of nu metal, with many bands blending it with other genres like metalcore and deathcore. Some nu metal bands from the 1990s and early 2000s also returned to their original nu metal sound. Bands such as Of Mice & Men, Emmure, Issues, My Ticket Home, and Bring Me The Horizon fused nu metal with metalcore or deathcore.

More recently, artists like Grimes, Poppy, and Rina Sawayama incorporated nu metal sounds into EDM in the late 2010s and early 2020s. This led to a renewed interest in nu metal during the early 2020s.

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