Turning to the first set of empirical results from the interviews, this chapter explores the self-ascribed status of the heavy metal fan as involving an allencompassing identity and lifestyle. This finding pertains to the broadest themes revealed by the research data inasmuch as the study participants apply these characteristics to themselves and to other fans in the heavy metal subculture, regardless of gender or any other differentiating categories. As such, these data reveal the extent and manner in which being a fan of heavy metal, the music, and the subculture involves an overall lifestyle and identity. In the interviews, two such broad themes emerged: (1) being a metalhead is a passion; and (2) a sharp distinction is drawn between the insiders of the heavy metal subculture and its outsiders.

The Metal Self

Theme 1: Heavy metal is a passion. Interview respondents often used the word “passion” to describe their participation in the heavy metal community. Using such a strongly emotional term demonstrates that being a metalhead is, to the fans of the musical genre, an important part of their overall identity, not just a matter of a musical preference. Being a metalhead is “a big part of who I am,” as William stated, and involves, in Steve's words, an “emotional connection to the music.” It was especially striking that the word passion was repeatedly used in response to a wide variety of interview questions, both by men and women participants alike.

When asked to describe the heavy metal community in general terms and what it means to be a (“real”) metal fan, the interviews showed that it was treated as a given by most all respondents that being a fan of heavy metal revolved around “the music,” “the sound,” “loud, distorted guitar,” and “the show,” as several respondents stated plainly. But it was telling that many participants explicitly spoke of this enjoyment of music in terms of a passion. For example, Susan and Robert described metal fans in almost identical terms as, respectively, “passionate about their music” and “passionate about your views.” Pam in her response to the same question about the general characteristics of metal fans said, “You have to truly listen to the music and understand the passion that comes with the music and understand the meaning of songs.”