Hel

The Devil’s Soundtrack: A Groovy History of Hel

Hel, the Norse goddess of the underworld, is more than just a spooky figure in mythology. She’s also a surprisingly groovy muse for music! From the heavy metal screams of “Hel” by Judas Priest to the hauntingly beautiful melodies of “Helter Skelter” by The Beatles, the name and persona of Hel have inspired countless musicians.

But before we get into the headbanging and psychedelic depths, let’s take a quick trip through history.

The Goddess of the Underworld, Not the “Hell” You Think

Hel isn’t actually the ruler of a fiery underworld, but rather a cold, icy realm. This “Hell” is more akin to the Scandinavian concept of “Helheim,” a place of shadows and silence.

Musical Mayhem Begins:

Music inspired by Hel’s realm started with the 19th century, where classical composers like Carl Nielsen and Richard Wagner explored the darker side of human emotions. This laid the groundwork for the 20th century’s exploration of the macabre in music.

The Heavy Metal Heroes:

The most obvious musical connection to Hel is through heavy metal. Bands like Judas Priest, with their iconic “Hel” anthem, made the goddess’s name synonymous with raw power and dark energy.

Fun Fact: Did you know Judas Priest originally wanted to call their song “Hell”? They even had a logo with a fiery skull and crossbones, but they decided to go with “Hel” after a record company exec warned them that “Hell” was too blasphemous.

But Hel Isn’t Just for Metalheads:

From the haunting piano chords of “Helter Skelter” by The Beatles to the psychedelic soundscapes of Pink Floyd’s “The Wall,” musicians across genres have explored themes of darkness and the unknown inspired by Hel.

Fun Fact: The Beatles’ “Helter Skelter” was inspired by a children’s book about a slide, but fans quickly interpreted it as a song about the Manson Family’s apocalyptic plans.

Contemporary Connections:

Even today, musicians like Ghost and Mayhem continue to draw inspiration from Hel’s realm. This shows that the power of the goddess’s myth continues to resonate with musicians across generations and styles.

The Groovy Conclusion:

While Hel may be a goddess of the underworld, her influence on music is anything but gloomy. From heavy metal anthems to psychedelic explorations, she has inspired musicians to tap into the dark and mysterious sides of human emotion. So, next time you hear a song about darkness or the unknown, remember Hel’s chilly but powerful presence.