Kawaii metal
Kawaii metal (also known as idol metal,[1] cute metal, or kawaiicore[2]) is a musical genre that blends elements of heavy metal and J-pop that was pioneered in Japan in the early 2010s. The genre combines both Eastern and Western influences that appeal to both cultures.[3] A typical kawaii metal composition combines the instrumentation found in various types of heavy metal music with J-pop melodies and a Japanese idol aesthetic. Kawaii metal's lyrical topics often contain kawaii (cute, lovable, kidlike) themes, making them much less hostile than those of other heavy metal genres.[4]
| Kawaii metal | |
|---|---|
| Etymology | Kawaii |
| Other names |
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| Stylistic origins | |
| Cultural origins | Early 2010s, Japan |
| Other topics | |
The Japanese girl group Babymetal is often credited with the creation and success of kawaii metal. In addition to Babymetal, kawaii metal acts such as Ladybaby have garnered media attention, as well as minor commercial attention, for performing songs of this genre.