Glam Metal 1987 vs. Nu Metal 2003

Attribute	Glam Metal 1987	Nu Metal 2003
Origin	Los Angeles, California	United States
Key Bands	Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Motley Crue	Linkin Park, Korn, Slipknot
Fashion	Spandex, big hair, leather	Baggy clothes, tattoos, piercings
Lyrics	Party, love, excess	Angst, aggression, social issues
Instrumentation	Guitar solos, power ballads	DJ scratching, downtuned guitars

Introduction

Glam Metal and Nu Metal are two distinct subgenres of heavy metal that gained popularity in different eras. Glam Metal, also known as hair metal, was at its peak in the late 1980s, while Nu Metal emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Both genres have their own unique characteristics and influences that set them apart from each other.

Musical Style

Glam Metal is characterized by its flashy and flamboyant image, with bands often sporting big hair, tight leather pants, and makeup. The music itself is known for its catchy melodies, anthemic choruses, and guitar solos. Bands like Motley Crue, Poison, and Bon Jovi were some of the biggest names in the Glam Metal scene in 1987.

Nu Metal, on the other hand, took a more aggressive and experimental approach to metal music. Bands like Linkin Park, Korn, and Limp Bizkit incorporated elements of hip-hop, industrial, and alternative rock into their sound. Nu Metal is known for its heavy guitar riffs, turntable scratching, and angst-filled lyrics.

Lyrical Themes

In Glam Metal, the lyrics often revolve around themes of partying, sex, and living life to the fullest. Songs like "Girls, Girls, Girls" by Motley Crue and "Talk Dirty to Me" by Poison are prime examples of the hedonistic lifestyle glam metal bands often sang about. The lyrics were usually light-hearted and fun, reflecting the carefree attitude of the era.

Nu Metal, on the other hand, delved into darker and more introspective themes. Bands like Linkin Park explored topics such as depression, anger, and alienation in their lyrics. Songs like "Crawling" and "In the End" dealt with personal struggles and emotional turmoil, resonating with a generation of listeners grappling with their own issues.

Image and Fashion

Glam Metal bands in 1987 were known for their over-the-top fashion sense, with members often wearing spandex, leather, and copious amounts of hairspray. The androgynous look was popular among glam metal musicians, with many blurring the lines between masculinity and femininity. The image was a crucial part of the glam metal aesthetic, helping bands stand out in a crowded music scene.

Nu Metal bands in 2003, on the other hand, adopted a more casual and streetwear-inspired style. Baggy jeans, hoodies, and baseball caps were common staples of the nu metal wardrobe. Bands like Limp Bizkit and Slipknot embraced a more aggressive and urban look, reflecting the edgier sound of the genre. The fashion choices of nu metal bands were a reflection of the rebellious and anti-establishment attitude of the era.

Commercial Success

In 1987, Glam Metal was at the height of its popularity, with bands like Bon Jovi and Def Leppard selling out arenas and topping the charts. The music videos of glam metal bands were a staple on MTV, helping to propel them to mainstream success. The excess and glamour of the glam metal scene made it a cultural phenomenon, with fans flocking to see their favorite bands live in concert.

Nu Metal in 2003 also enjoyed commercial success, with bands like Linkin Park and Korn selling millions of albums worldwide. The genre's fusion of metal, hip-hop, and alternative rock appealed to a wide audience, attracting fans from different musical backgrounds. Nu Metal bands toured extensively and played at major music festivals, solidifying their place in the music industry.

Legacy

Glam Metal in 1987 left a lasting impact on the music industry, influencing future generations of rock bands and musicians. The catchy hooks and anthemic choruses of glam metal songs continue to be celebrated by fans of the genre, with many classic hits still being played on rock radio stations today. The flamboyant image and extravagant lifestyle of glam metal bands have become synonymous with the excesses of the 1980s.

Nu Metal in 2003 also made a significant mark on the music world, paving the way for a new wave of metal bands to experiment with different sounds and styles. The fusion of genres in nu metal opened up new possibilities for metal music, pushing the boundaries of what was considered traditional heavy metal. The emotional depth and raw energy of nu metal bands continue to resonate with listeners, making the genre a lasting influence on modern rock music.