The Critique and Popularization of History in Metal Music – The Example of Sabaton

Abstract

The study of history is typically the responsibility of historians; however, history is also an integral part of popular culture. As a result, there is often a disparity between the academics and the general public interpreting historical events, people, and phenomena. Music, particularly rock and metal music, is an example of popular culture that frequently engages with historical subjects. This paper focuses on the Swedish band Sabaton and examines the opportunities and difficulties involved in popularizing history through popular media. Music that delves into historical events provides a valuable medium for public historians in analyzing the creation of popular narratives about historical events. While this type of historiography differs in many respects from academic historiography, they do share similar challenges and issues, such as how to approach and manage contentious topics. The example of Sabaton perfectly shows the potential that historiography can use in this interaction between music and audience. Along with the music, the band has also launched a YouTube channel through which the audience can learn about the historical background of the songs. In a very short time, the Sabaton History Channel gained great popularity, and in addition to the band members, a team of trained historians has been working on it.