Tobias Forge slams rock misconceptions but applauds this rising band

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The notion that rock music is no longer thriving as the best genre ever made has persisted for a long time. However, just like a tired cat taking a nap, rock doesn’t actually disappear. The phrase “rock is dead” has been repeated so frequently over the past four decades that it’s lost its impact and significance.

It seems that the confusion might stem from focusing solely on Billboard and UK charts. If a piece doesn’t reach No. 1, it may appear unimportant. However, this perspective is somewhat outdated as success can also be measured by tour ticket sales and merchandise revenues. Even today, rock bands continue to thrive in these areas, and they will always be around.

In a recent conversation with Consequence, Tobias Forge from Ghost shared his perspective that rock music might not be alive anymore, and even pointed out Gene Simmons of KISS as one who often advocates for this viewpoint. Additionally, Forge mentioned some new bands he believes are exceptionally talented.

Ghost’s Tobias Forge doesn’t want to hear that rock is dead

Indeed, the concept of ‘new’ can be subjective, and Forge delved into the perspective many fans hold when comparing established bands to more recently formed ones. For example, some continue to regard Ghost as a new band, despite their debut music emerging 15 years ago. However, it is crucial to clarify that Ghost is not, in fact, new. The success of their latest album, titled “Skeleta“, reaching No. 1 was the result of dedicated effort over many years.

Since 2020, the album became the first to top the charts with a hard rock or metal sound. Soon after, the latest Sleep Token album also climbed its way to the top spot.

Forge shared with Consequence, “Often, it’s Gene Simmons who expresses this sentiment, but many have said it: rock ‘n’ roll is no longer alive, and there won’t be any new headliners. I acknowledge that the scene has been thin, but with the sad demise of several bands that I adore, including KISS, I truly believe that over time, we will see more bands taking the stage as headliners.

Historically speaking, this is how things unfolded: Back in the late ’70s, disco dominated the radio waves, while rock took a backseat. However, unbeknownst to many, punk and post-punk were emerging and laying the foundation for New Wave and other rock-oriented subgenres.

In the late ’80s, a fresh music scene known as grunge burst onto the scene, captivating rock enthusiasts with new acts to adore. It was unimaginable back in the mid-’80s that bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam would make their debut so soon.

In terms of the old versus the new, Forge stated, “Sleep Token, Måneskin, or Greta Van Fleet are all fresh acts in the music scene. They demonstrate that you have the potential to achieve greatness. You could start a band today and potentially become well-known within just a few years. I believe this is accomplished by having the desire to create something unique.

In response to the topic at hand, Forge firmly insisted, “I’m done with discussing Greta Van Fleet. I believe their motives are genuine, and while they may resemble another artist, that’s not something they should be blamed for. Let’s move on from this subject now.

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2025-07-22 13:00