Babymetal, a Japanese metal band that combines elements of heavy metal music with J-Pop, has taken the world by storm since their debut in 2010. With their energetic performances, catchy tunes, and unique style, they have captured the hearts of fans all over the globe. And in recent years, they’ve gained a strong following in Chicago, Illinois, with sold-out concerts and enthusiastic crowds.
But what exactly is it about Babymetal that has made them so popular in Chicago? In this article, we’ll delve into the history and rise of Babymetal, their unique sound and style, and how they’ve become a cultural phenomenon in the Windy City. So grab your Kitsune mask and get ready to rock out with Babymetal!
The Origins of Babymetal
A Fusion of J-Pop and Heavy Metal
Babymetal was formed in 2010 by a Japanese entertainment company, Amuse Inc., as a sub-unit of the idol group Sakura Gakuin. The idea behind Babymetal was to create a fusion between the popular J-Pop genre and the heavy metal scene, which had a significant following in Japan. This unique blend of music genres is what sets Babymetal apart from traditional metal bands and has been the driving force behind their success.
The Trio of Suzuka, Yui, and Moa
The original members of Babymetal were Suzuka Nakamoto (Su-metal), Yui Mizuno (Yuimetal), and Moa Kikuchi (Moametal), who were all part of Sakura Gakuin. They were chosen for their vocal abilities and charismatic stage presence, and together, they formed a dynamic trio that quickly gained attention in Japan.
Initially, Babymetal started by performing at smaller venues in Japan, but their popularity quickly grew, and they soon started performing at larger venues and festivals. Their music videos on YouTube gained millions of views, and their international fanbase began to grow.
The Debut Album and International Success
In 2014, Babymetal released their self-titled debut album, which included hit singles such as “Megitsune” and “Gimme Chocolate!!”. The album was a huge success in Japan, reaching number one on the Oricon Charts and selling over 400,000 copies. It also gained attention globally, with fans from all over the world discovering and falling in love with Babymetal’s unique sound.
Their international success led to them performing at major music festivals such as Rock on the Range in the US and Download Festival in the UK. In 2016, they made history by becoming the first Japanese band to headline Wembley Arena in London, with over 12,000 fans in attendance.
Babymetal’s Unique Sound and Style
Combining J-Pop Melodies with Heavy Metal Riffs
Babymetal’s music can best be described as a fusion of upbeat J-Pop melodies and intense heavy metal riffs. This combination seems unlikely, but it works seamlessly in their songs, creating a sound that is energetic, catchy, and refreshing.
The group’s vocals are primarily sung in Japanese, with occasional English phrases thrown in. This adds to the uniqueness of their music and has helped them gain recognition in countries where Japanese music is not commonly heard.
The Fox God and the Kitsune Sign
One of the most iconic elements of Babymetal’s style is the use of the Kitsune (fox) symbol and their connection to the Fox God. The Kitsune sign, often seen as a hand gesture, has become synonymous with the band and their fans, known as “The One”.
The Fox God, according to Babymetal’s lore, is the deity that gave birth to the band and guides them on their journey. It is a representation of the Kitsune, who is seen as a protector and a messenger in Japanese mythology.
The Visual Aesthetics of Babymetal
Apart from their unique sound, Babymetal is also known for their visual aesthetics, which have evolved over the years. In the beginning, the girls wore schoolgirl-inspired outfits, which reflected their connection to Sakura Gakuin. But as they gained more creative control, their costumes became more elaborate and incorporated elements of both J-Pop and heavy metal fashion.
Their live performances are also a visual spectacle, with the use of pyrotechnics, choreographed dance moves, and theatrical elements. This has helped create a stage presence that is both entertaining and visually stunning.
The Rise of Babymetal in Chicago
The First Show in Chicago and the Fans’ Reaction
In 2014, Babymetal performed in the US for the first time at the House of Blues in Chicago. This was part of their world tour, “Babymetal World Tour 2014”, where they made stops in various countries, including the UK, Germany, and France.
The show in Chicago was met with an enthusiastic response from fans, many of whom had been waiting for the opportunity to see Babymetal live. The concert was sold out, and fans were eager to experience the energy and excitement of a Babymetal performance.
Headlining at Chicago Open Air Festival
In 2016, Babymetal returned to Chicago to headline the Chicago Open Air Festival, alongside other major bands such as Slipknot and Disturbed. This was a significant milestone for the band, as it showcased their growing popularity and acceptance in the heavy metal scene.
Their performance at the festival was praised by both fans and critics, with many citing their unique sound and stage presence as the highlights of their set. It was also a chance for the band to connect with their American fanbase and gain new followers.
The Second Coming to Chicago
In 2018, Babymetal returned to Chicago for their “Babymetal World Tour 2018”, which included a stop at the Aragon Ballroom. This time, they performed as a duo, as Yui Mizuno had left the band earlier that year due to health reasons. Despite this change, Babymetal’s performance was still met with an overwhelming reception from fans.
The show was sold out, and fans showed their love and support for Su-metal and Moametal, who put on a memorable performance. It was clear that Babymetal had established a strong presence in Chicago and had gained a loyal following in the city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Babymetal’s rise in Chicago has been nothing short of remarkable. With their unique sound, style, and electrifying performances, they have captured the hearts of fans and have become a cultural phenomenon in the city. Their impact on the music industry cannot be denied, and they continue to inspire and influence new artists and fans all over the world.
From humble beginnings as a sub-unit of an idol group to headlining major music festivals, Babymetal has come a long way, and their journey is far from over. They’ve broken stereotypes, bridged cultures, and united fans, proving that music has the power to bring people together. And with their upcoming shows and future projects, Babymetal’s future in Chicago and the rest of the world looks bright.
Additionally, their collaboration with electronic music artist Slushii adds an exciting dimension to their already dynamic performances, further solidifying their position as innovators in the music industry.