Overview
Hard rock emerged in the 1960s as a powerful force in music, blending blues-inspired rock with a heavier sound that would influence countless artists. Pioneered by bands such as [[led-zeppelin|Led Zeppelin]] and [[deep-purple|Deep Purple]], hard rock is characterized by its loud guitars, strong rhythms, and anthemic vocals. The genre laid the groundwork for sub-genres like heavy metal and grunge, making it a cornerstone of modern rock music.