How did the popularity of the Beatles lead to the birth of metal music? What do metal artists have in common with classical composers such as Bach and Vivaldi? Readers will explore the answers to these questions and more as they journey through the history of metal music, from Black Sabbath to Slipknot. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for this complex genre as they explore the evolution of metal and its sub-genres through annotated quotes from musicians and critics, full-color photographs, and a discography of some of the most influential albums in headbanging history.