National Metal Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the powerful and rebellious genre of metal music. Established in honor of the mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, this day provides metal enthusiasts with the perfect excuse to crank up their favorite tracks and celebrate the genre’s intense sound and spirit.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: November 11th
- Tagged as: Music, Celebration, Metal
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalMetalDay
- When was it founded?: 2011
- Who founded it?: VH1 Classic
History of National Metal Day
National Metal Day was founded by VH1 Classic on November 11, 2011. The date, 11/11/11, was chosen as a nod to the iconic scene from This Is Spinal Tap, where the band’s amplifiers go “one louder” than ten, symbolizing the genre’s penchant for excess and intensity. Since its inception, metal fans have embraced this day to celebrate their favorite bands and indulge in the diverse sub-genres of metal music.
Timeline
- 1969: Led Zeppelin releases their first album, contributing to the birth of heavy metal.
- 1984: This Is Spinal Tap is released, providing a comedic take on metal bands.
- 1992: The fictitious band Spinal Tap releases a follow-up album, Break Like the Wind.
- 2008: VH1 airs That Metal Show, focusing on heavy metal music.
- 2011: The inaugural National Metal Day is celebrated on 11/11/11.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | November | 11 | Monday |
| 2025 | November | 11 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | November | 11 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | November | 11 | Thursday |
| 2028 | November | 11 | Saturday |
| 2029 | November | 11 | Sunday |
Observed
National Metal Day is observed by listening to metal music, attending concerts, or watching This Is Spinal Tap. Fans often share their celebrations on social media using the hashtag #NationalMetalDay.
Fun Facts About Metal Music
- Heavy Metal was initially used to describe bands like Deep Purple and Led Zeppelin.
- The Swedish band Bathory is named after a Hungarian noblewoman known for her gruesome history.
- Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson is not only a legendary frontman but also a professional pilot.
Quiz
- What movie inspired National Metal Day?
- Which network founded National Metal Day?
- What year was National Metal Day first celebrated?
(Answers: 1. This Is Spinal Tap, 2. VH1 Classic, 3. 2011)
FAQs
- Why is it called heavy metal?
Heavy metal refers to the genre’s intense sound and powerful themes. - Who are considered pioneers of heavy metal?
Bands like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Deep Purple are often credited as pioneers.
Related
- Heavy Metal Music
- This Is Spinal Tap
- VH1 Classic
- Rock Music History