Why I HATE the "Rock is Dead" Argument

Rock Isn’t Dead

The creator argues that the claim “rock is dead” confuses a decline in mainstream chart dominance with the death of the music itself. Rock and metal still have audiences, active performers, and ways for bands to earn a living.

As evidence, he names newer acts across genres—from Havok and Nothing More to Issues, Periphery, and State Champs—and argues that some could grow into arena-level acts.

Supporting the Next Generation

The creator’s bigger frustration is that people lamenting rock’s decline often ignore newer bands, cling to nostalgia, or complain without doing anything to help. Slipknot and Tool reaching No. 1 is worth celebrating, he says, but it would be an even bigger milestone for a new band to achieve that success.

He also pushes back on the idea that mainstream popularity means “selling out.” Fans should help promising acts reach wider audiences rather than punish them for doing so. Practical support could include taking emerging bands on tour or introducing them to new listeners.

His pointed advice to anyone who says they want rock saved is simple:

Make rock music.

Experimentation and Evolution

The creator calls for rock musicians to develop more distinctive personalities. He jokes that some rappers have taken on more of the rock-star persona than rock musicians have, while warning that copying them outright could feel forced or embarrassing.

He also encourages experimentation. Using Nirvana’s impact as an example, he argues that a fresh sound can reshape the wider music scene and open doors for other bands. Rock acts should be allowed to incorporate influences such as pop, R&B, rap, EDM, or trap beats. Fans can criticize these experiments without dismissing artists simply for trying something new.

Older bands, meanwhile, should find a balance between evolving and abandoning the sound that made them recognizable.

Main Takeaway

Rock isn’t dead—but it won’t thrive if fans and musicians keep looking backward and complaining instead of supporting what comes next. The creator hopes the next generation of rock and metal bands can succeed both on the charts and as working artists.

Personalities Mentioned

• RanterInShades, the creator
• Finn McKenty (The Punk Rock MBA)
• Mike (Become The Knight)
• Gene Simmons
• Adam Levine
• Corey Taylor
• Billie Joe Armstrong