emerged in the mid-1990s as a fusion of heavy metal, hip-hop, and alternative rock. Known for down-tuned guitars, aggressive riffs, and rhythmic, rap-influenced vocals, it was driven by themes of angst, alienation, and inner turmoil. Popularized by bands like Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Deftones, nu metal broke into the mainstream and defined a generation of heavy music with its raw intensity and crossover appeal.
