Stage diving, headbanging: An encore explanation of inexplicable rock traditions – National
Back in 2024, I wrote a column that attempted to explain some widely accepted but largely inexplicable things we’ve come to know in the world of rock.
Where did the term “rock’n’roll” come from? What’s the difference between “rock’n’roll” and “rock?” Why are many musicians so short? Who came up with metal’s devil horns gesture? And why is there always some idiot in the crowd yelling “‘Freedbird!'” when it’s not a Lynyrd Skynyrd show?Let’s pick up on that theme with more handy and useful explanations.Why do bands insist on the charade of the encore?We’ve all seen it. A band goes through their set and then disappears with the houselights still down while the crowd goes crazy, demanding more. What about the big hits they’ve yet to play? Surely the gig isn’t over yet. Story continues b...






