Abusers and Distortion: Time to Tune Metal

Ah, metal, that glorious universe of powerful riffs, gut-wrenching screams, and lyrics that cry for freedom, justice, and resistance. How we love the intensity, the authenticity, the rebellion against the system! But wait, something smells rotten in the scene, and it’s not just the leather jackets that haven’t seen soap in decades. No, metalheads, we’re talking about those «gods» of the stage who, between guttural growls and guitar solos, have spread a wave of abuse, violence, and toxicity that has nothing to do with rebellion, but everything to do with being deplorable.

The Horror Gallery: Who Said Being a Jerk Was Part of the Show?

Let’s start with Tim Lambesis, the «adorable» frontman of As I Lay Dying. This character, who perhaps thought he was starring in a low-budget thriller, tried to hire a hitman to kill his wife. Yes, you read that right. But the most surreal thing is that, after serving his sentence, not only did he return to the stage, but he was welcomed back with open arms by a portion of the fandom. «Oh, poor thing, he served his time, let’s let him keep screaming in our ears.»

Next up is Bobby Liebling, the charismatic leader of Pentagram, who decided that abusing women and mistreating them was a great way to pass the time. Among his long list of «achievements,» we also find charges of sexual assault. And what was the response from many fans? Turning a blind eye, because, of course, nothing says «resistance» like tolerating an abuser in our ranks.

And how about Danny Walker, known for his work in bands like Intronaut and Exhumed? The drummer was accused of domestic violence, but that didn’t stop him from continuing his music career. Because in metal, apparently, you must have an unstoppable rhythm, even when it comes to hitting your partner. And no, that’s not a clever metaphor for drumming.

If we think of more names, it’s inevitable to mention Rammstein. Recently, the German band has come under scrutiny for accusations of sexual abuse and manipulation of young fans by their frontman, Till Lindemann. These allegations not only tarnish the group’s reputation but also reveal a dark reality where some artists seem to believe that their status gives them the right to anything. The same applies to Marilyn Manson, who has been accused by multiple women of psychological, physical, and sexual abuse. This icon, who for years played with the image of the macabre and disturbing, has crossed the line separating artistic provocation from completely unacceptable behavior.

Let’s not forget Jon Nödtveidt of Dissection, who served a sentence for murder before briefly returning to the scene prior to his death. Or Varg Vikernes of Burzum, known not only for his music but for the murder of a bandmate and his openly racist views. And these are just the most notorious names. The list, unfortunately, is much longer.

Why Do We Tolerate These Attitudes?

It’s unsettling and frustrating to see how these attitudes continue to be tolerated in the metal scene, but it’s not a phenomenon without explanation. Part of the answer lies in the almost mythological relationship that fans develop with their idols. Music has immense power; it connects, heals, inspires. When an artist touches us deeply with their art, we tend to idealize them, to see them as larger than life. So, when dark aspects of their personality or behavior are revealed, many fans go into denial, unable to reconcile the image they have of their hero with the reality of their actions.

Moreover, metal has historically been characterized by a «us against the world» attitude. This mindset has fostered a strong community but has also nurtured a culture where the unjustifiable is excused in the name of rebellion and artistic freedom. Any external criticism is seen as an attack on the entire genre, and any attempt to hold artists accountable is perceived as a threat to free expression. The result is an automatic and uncritical defense of figures who have clearly crossed the line.

Another reason why the metal scene tolerates these attitudes is the separation that many fans make between the person and the art. «I love their music, but I don’t care what they do in their personal life» is a common phrase in the community. This mindset allows people to continue enjoying the music without confronting the discomfort of acknowledging their idols’ flaws. However, this separation is problematic when it ignores the real harm these figures inflict on others.

There is also a factor of nostalgia and loyalty that plays a significant role. Many of these artists have been key figures in fans’ lives for years, even decades. Their music has been the soundtrack to important moments, creating a resistance to condemn their actions. It’s as if admitting that an idol is guilty of abuse would betray a part of oneself, a part tied to deep memories and emotions.

What Can We Do as a Community? Hint: It’s Not That Hard

So, what can we do about it? Well, the good news is that you don’t have to be a genius to find the solution. To start, let’s stop glorifying abusers. Simple as that. You don’t need to burn their records (though if you do, you’ll be putting fire to good use), but you can stop buying their merch, attending their concerts, and generally supporting them. In other words, stop feeding the monster.

Additionally, we should begin holding bands and record labels that choose to work with these people accountable. If your favorite band decides to keep touring with an abuser, maybe it’s time to reconsider if you really want to keep being their fan. Because, let’s be real, there are hundreds of good bands that don’t feel the need to harm others to express themselves.

As an audience, we should talk about this. Don’t be afraid to point out what’s wrong, to demand higher standards. Cancel culture is a myth invented by those who fear being held accountable for their actions. In reality, what we need is a culture of accountability.

Metal Will Survive This, and It Will Be Better for It

Metal is bigger than any individual. It’s a community, a movement, a way of life. And as such, it has the power to change, to evolve, and to purge the toxic elements that contaminate it. We don’t need abusers on our stages; we don’t need criminals as icons. We need music that inspires, that empowers, that makes us feel part of something bigger, not complicit in violence.

So, the next time someone talks to you about how «terrible» cancel culture is, simply remind them that demanding respect and justice is not canceling. It’s just refusing to accept the crap we’ve been sold under the guise of «rebellion.» Because the true spirit of metal is not tolerating injustice; it’s fighting against it.

Long live metal, but let it be without aggressors on stage. It’s time we leave these imposters behind and make way for a truly free and just scene.