We need to have an understanding of what 'underground' means so it does not interfere with our exploration into heavy metal.
To be 'underground' is to exist apart and independently from the mainstream.
Any underground culture ceases to be underground once its focus is exposed and available to mainstream society. Not necessarily adopted and embraced by mainstream society, but available to mainstream society.
Heavy metal musicians are signed to record companies which in turn are serviced by distribution companies which get albums into stores. Normal stores which sell pop albums. Magazines focusing on heavy metal are available in grocery stores. Heavy metal sells millions of albums worldwide every year. They hit the charts in many countries. Is there a human being on Earth that does not recognize the term heavy metal?
Heavy metal is not underground.
To be 'underground' is to exist apart and independently from the mainstream.
Any underground culture ceases to be underground once its focus is exposed and available to mainstream society. Not necessarily adopted and embraced by mainstream society, but available to mainstream society.
Heavy metal musicians are signed to record companies which in turn are serviced by distribution companies which get albums into stores. Normal stores which sell pop albums. Magazines focusing on heavy metal are available in grocery stores. Heavy metal sells millions of albums worldwide every year. They hit the charts in many countries. Is there a human being on Earth that does not recognize the term heavy metal?
Heavy metal is not underground.
