8 Heavy Metal Songs That Denounce Racism
2. Machine Head - Is There Anybody Out There?
The most recent song on this list, Is There Anybody Out There? was partially inspired by Phil Anselmo’s aforementioned “white power” incident.
While Machine Head mainman Robb Flynn was among many involved in the heated exchange of opinions that followed the event, it would seem that the extent of his opinion was left to interviews, internet comments and vlogs as the second verse is the only one dedicated to advocating against racism.
Apparently, the band was already in the midst of recording the song on the evening of the incident and added or changed the verse in light of what occurred. Unfortunately, this gives greater weight to the feeling that the anti-racist intentions here are shoehorned in, as the rest of the lyrics are more inwardly focused statements referencing fear of a vague nature.
Credit where it’s due, though, as the anti-racist language, minimal as it is, not only takes aim at racist individuals but also the Confederate flag, which many consider to be a symbol of the former.