numetal

Nu metal is a subgenre of alternative metal that emerged in the mid-1990s. It is characterized by a fusion of heavy metal with elements from other genres, most notably hip hop, funk, and alternative rock. Key musical features often include down-tuned guitars with heavy riffs, prominent bass lines, rhythmic vocals that can range from rapping to melodic singing, and often incorporates electronic or sampled sounds. Drumming in nu metal typically features a strong backbeat and syncopated rhythms.

The lyrical themes in nu metal songs frequently explore personal struggles, anger, alienation, social commentary, and introspection. This emotional intensity, combined with the genre's aggressive yet often melodic sound, resonated with a large audience during its peak popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Notable bands associated with the nu metal movement include Korn, Limp Bizkit, Slipknot, Linkin Park, System of a Down, and Deftones, though the boundaries of the genre are often debated and some bands have evolved their sound over time. The genre's mainstream success led to significant commercial appeal, with many bands achieving platinum status and headlining major festivals. While its peak popularity has passed, nu metal continues to have a dedicated fanbase and its influence can still be heard in various contemporary rock and metal acts.