Heavy Metal is a genre of rock music characterized by its loud, aggressive sound and powerful guitar riffs. Originating in the late 1960s and early 1970s, it features distorted guitars, emphatic rhythms, and often dark or fantastical themes. Bands like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin played pivotal roles in shaping the genre's identity. The genre has evolved over the decades, giving rise to various subgenres such as Thrash Metal and Death Metal. Heavy Metal is known for its passionate fanbase and cultural impact, influencing fashion, art, and lifestyle. Iconic bands like Metallica and Iron Maiden continue to inspire new generations of musicians.