# The forgotten band Geddy Lee crowned the origin of heavy metal: “Volume and fury”

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/the-forgotten-band-geddy-lee-crowned-the-origin-of-heavy-metal-volume-and-fury/
- Published: 2026-11-02T19:05:02+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-02T19:34:51+00:00
- Original publisher: Far Out
- Original article: https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/band-geddy-lee-crowned-the-origin-of-heavy-metal/
- Topics: Entertainment, Music

## Key points

- Geddy Lee sees Blue Cheer as metal’s first band.
- Their 1968 “Summertime Blues” cover showcased their loud sound.
- Lee says Led Zeppelin’s range made them more than metal.

## Summary

Rush bassist Geddy Lee has named Californian band Blue Cheer as the first heavy metal band, crediting their sound with helping shape the genre. His view challenges the familiar focus on Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, and highlights the role of lesser-known groups in metal’s early development.

Lee pointed to Blue Cheer’s volume and fury, especially on their 1968 cover of “Summertime Blues”. The band were known for loud performances and an early use of de-tuned guitar, while Lee argued that Led Zeppelin’s changing, eclectic sound made them more than a metal band. The article suggests Blue Cheer’s raw intensity may also connect them to punk.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.