Which songs should be considered national anthems for rock and metal genres? – Our thoughts
What makes a rock or metal song worthy of being considered a national anthem? This question sparked a discussion among the Loudwire staffers on National Anthem Day. The day commemorates the adoption of the “Star-Spangled Banner” as the United States National Anthem in 1931, symbolizing patriotism and national identity.
Reflecting on the concept, Chad Childers pointed out that a national anthem for rock and metal should uplift with its sound and spirit, resonate with listeners through its lyrics, and have a catchy hook that keeps fans coming back for more. Lauryn Schaffner emphasized the importance of universality, arguing that the song should be recognized globally, transcending boundaries beyond just rock and metal enthusiasts. Joe DiVita stressed the need for a song that accurately represents the genre’s style and sound while having broad appeal to serve as a gateway to heavy music. Chuck Armstrong emphasized instant recognition, highlighting the importance of a song’s ability to be identified within seconds of playing it.
When asked to pledge allegiance to a rock national anthem, the staff offered diverse choices. Lauryn Schaffner proposed Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven,” acknowledging its status as a classic rock masterpiece that laid the foundation for many contemporary bands. Joe DiVita opted for AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck,” citing its electrifying energy and timeless appeal. Chuck Armstrong favored The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” for its widespread recognition and popularity. Chad Childers chose Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” praising its epic nature, vocal range, and memorable guitar solo.
Shifting the focus to metal, Chad Childers commented that metal anthems may not necessarily uplift listeners but should amp them up with their darker and sinister edge. He selected Black Sabbath’s “Iron Man” for its menacing riffs and sing-along quality. Lauryn Schaffner endorsed Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” for its widespread recognition and ability to bring people together. Joe DiVita championed Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train,” noting its significance in the heavy metal trinity alongside “Iron Man” and “Enter Sandman.”
In summary, the Loudwire staff explored the attributes that qualify a rock or metal song to be deemed a national anthem, emphasizing qualities such as universality, recognition, representativeness of the genre, catchy hooks, and instant identifiability. They highlighted iconic tracks spanning different eras and subgenres, each contributing to the rich tapestry of rock and metal music culture. Ultimately, the selection of a national anthem for rock or metal reflects the essence of these genres and their enduring impact on music enthusiasts worldwide.