Fantasy fiction and heavy metal music have a strong and lasting connection, with fantasy providing artists with a rich source of inspiration for their lyrics and music.
Both forms of art often deal with similar themes such as darkness, otherworldliness, and rebellion, making them a natural fit for each other. Fantasy fiction has been around for centuries and is inspired for many artists, including heavy metal bands and musicians.
The worlds created in fantasy often feature mythical creatures, magic, and battles between good and evil—themes and motifs found in many metal songs.
Tolkien’s influence.
Iron Maiden has been creating music for over 40 years and has been heavily influenced by J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy and has written several songs inspired by the world of Middle-Earth, including “Hallowed Be Thy Name,” “The Trooper,” and “Fear of the Dark.”
German metal band Blind Guardian also draws influence from J.R.R. Tolkien’s works, as well as other works in the fantasy genre. The band’s music often features complex and intricate storytelling inspired by the rich worlds of fantasy fiction. Blind Guardian’s music is characterized by its sweeping epicness and powerful vocals, making them a must-listen for fans of both heavy metal and fantasy fiction.
Rhapsody of Fire is an Italian metal band inspired by classic fantasy such as “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Chronicles of Narnia.” Their music often features grandiose orchestral arrangements, which are inspired by epic battles and fantastical worlds. Rhapsody of Fire’s music is a testament to the power of fantasy fiction to inspire heavy metal music.
Austrian black metal band Summoning produce dark and atmospheric soundscapes, which are inspired by the dark and foreboding world of Middle-Earth.
Nightwish is a Finnish symphonic metal band that has drawn heavy influence from several fantasy novels, including works by J.R.R. Tolkien, Neil Gaiman, and H.P. Lovecraft. The band’s music often features grandiose orchestrations, soaring vocals, and epic storytelling, which are inspired by the fantastical worlds of classic fantasy novels. Nightwish’s music is a testament to the power of fantasy fiction to inspire music.
Fantasy and metal have a long and intertwined history. As both forms of art continue to evolve, it is likely that this relationship will only grow stronger. Whether you are a fan of fantasy or metal, it is impossible to ignore the impact that each has had on the other.
Would you like a free Ravenglass Universe starter library?
You will get the novel Birth of Assassins, the novellas The Fool and Blades of Wolfsbane, plus you’ll be first to know about the latest updates in the Ravenglass Universe.
