Hard Rock

A high-energy subgenre of rock music rooted in blues, defined by aggressive distorted electric guitar riffs, powerful shouted vocals, driving rhythms, extended solos, and anthemic structures evoking rebellion, power, and intensity.

Origin: UK and US, evolving from blues rock like The Yardbirds and Cream.

Era: 1960s onward, peaking in 1970s-1980s with enduring influence.