Why Science Says Metalheads are Smarter

The Unexpected Link Between Metal and Intelligence: Reacting to Metal Music Fans – Forget the uniformed stereotypes, new research suggests a real link between heavy metal music and intelligence. In this video, we delve into the science behind this surprising connection. We’ll explore how complex music structures, thought-provoking lyrics, and a community that fosters critical thinking might contribute to metalheads‘ brainpower. Turns out that fans of bands like Megadeth, Morbid Angel, Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Melallica, Deftness, Megadeth, Slayer, Sepultura, Gojira, Falling in Reverse, and Meshuggah might have a higher IQ than you might think. Is there a cause-and-effect relationship, or just a correlation?
Citations for the several of the studies & articles mentioned in the video are below:

„A Study of Music Preferences and Giftedness in Adolescents“, Stuart Cadwallader (2007)
„Deathcore, Creativity, and Scientific Thinking“, Angelelar, Sunstroke & Allen (2016)
„Band Your Head: Using Heavy Metal Music to Promote Scientific Thinking in the Classroom“, Rodney M. Schmaltz (2016)
„High IQ Is Linked To Loving This Surprising Type Of Music“, Jeremy Dean (2022)
„The Effects of Musical Complexity on Working Memory, Attention Control, and Cognitive Flexibility“, Teresa Lesicka and Maciej Szelag (2016)
„The Role of Lyrics in Metal Music: A Critical Analysis“, Keith Kahn-Harris (2006)
„The Link Between Music and Emotional Intelligence“, Oliver Sacks (2007)

Nena Lavonne, Psy.M. is a musician, rock enthusiast, and professional in the psychological field that enjoys analyzing her favorite artists through the lens of psychology.