The early to mid 90’s were a time of change. Particularly in the world of pop culture. Generation X were coming into their own and they had their opinions. And those opinions were strong. As evidenced from the grunge movement. As well as heavier, dirtier forms of metal: I.E. Pantera. Hip Hop was on it’s rise, questioning current social norms that revolutionized how future generations would think. And then there was the emergence of Nu Metal. Which made its nail in the coffin, we’re here to stay statement with Korn’s 1994 self titled debut.
The development of Nu Metal really can’t be credited to just one band. But if there’s a moment where it finally evolved into its own mainstream genre, it’s Korn’s first record. Prior to the album, there were certainly growing moments of what would eventually become Nu Metal. You had Faith No More of course, the three streak album kickasserey with ‘Uplift Mofo Party Plan, ‘Mother’s Milk’ and Blood, Sugar, Sex Magic by the Chili Peppers. As well as groove metal masters like Prong, Living Colour and King’s X. And finally Rage Against the Machine’s 1992 debut.
But it all perfectly came together in 1994 with ‘Korn.’ The slap bass, the mega-ton, seven string heavy guitar tones. And the mixture of hip hop scatting and melody created by Johnathan Davis. Giving Korn an instantly unique, stand out sound. And while the album didn’t explode immediately, it’s now considered by many to be the greatest and best representation of Nu Metal. And it’s no wonder. With tracks like ‘Ball Tongue,’ ‘Blind’ and ‘Clown’ blasting through the speakers, it’s easy to understand. They’re fierce, take no shit songs. Which would eventually lead to social change among the youth.
Misfits, artistic leaning kids and those on the outside, who were constantly bullied by the jocks and ‘cool’ kids, finally had a rallying cry. ‘Faggot’ was a huge middle finger to those that picked on the ‘other’ guys. And they started to fight back. Kind of like a revival of greaser and soc culture from the 50’s. Just like that, JNCO’s are in style. The Nu Metal movement had arrived. And it all goes back to Korn’s first album. A seminal moment in music and modern pop culture. Korn also differentiated themselves by adding bagpipes to the now classic ‘Shoots and Ladders.’ A concert staple that’s loved by millions.
All in all Korn’s debut hit at the perfect time. Right in the middle of an evolving musical landscape. It was the sound of a metal revolution. A fashion that lasted eight years. Countless imitators and of course, the music industry promoting the sound into the ground. But there’s only one Korn. And their debut album still remains the best example of what the sound is all about. So crank it, love it, live it!
