Sleep Token and Turnstile are at the forefront of a Rock Resurgence with diverse influences.
Turning the typical New Music Friday playlist on its head, Sleep Token took center stage back in May and grabbed the spotlight with their gothic mask-clad anonymity. The alternative hard rock band, which first gained recognition in 2023 with their debut album “Take Me Back To Eden,” experienced a meteoric rise over the next two years. Their Spotify monthly listeners skyrocketed from 665k to an impressive 9.8 million, culminating in their 2025 album “Even In Arcadia” claiming the top spot on the Billboard 200 chart. Sleep Token’s success was part of a larger resurgence in the hard rock genre, with another act, Ghost, also making waves with their album “Skeletá” hitting #1 on the charts.
Despite a noticeable absence of rock bands in mainstream music in recent times, the achievements of Sleep Token and Ghost underscored the enduring appeal of guitar-driven music. This resurgence was further validated with the rise of Baltimore’s Turnstile, an alternative punk outfit that has been gaining momentum. These bands are not only revitalizing the genre but also pushing the boundaries of traditional rock sound by incorporating elements of hip-hop, electronic music, and experimental sounds in their music.
According to Bob Johnsen, President of 5B Artists + Media, the resurgence of hard rock is indicative of a broader cultural shift towards greater appreciation and recognition of the genre. This trend is reflected in the streaming landscape, where newer bands like Sleep Token, Turnstile, and BABYMETAL are making significant inroads alongside established acts like Slipknot. The diversification of genres and the blending of styles in contemporary music have been facilitated by streaming services, allowing listeners to explore a wide range of sounds and discover new artists.
The evolving music landscape is evident in the streaming statistics, with a notable increase in the presence of newer bands on popular playlists. Hard rock tracks by bands formed in the 2010s or later have been making waves, with Sleep Token and Turnstile leading the charge with their innovative approach to music. These bands are not only attracting a growing fan base but also gaining recognition for their genre-defying experimentation and unique musical offerings.
Collaborations with artists from different genres have played a crucial role in expanding the reach of hard rock bands, as seen in the success of Falling In Reverse and Spiritbox. By partnering with artists from diverse genres such as country, rap, and electronic music, these bands have managed to attract a broader audience and engage with listeners who may not typically gravitate towards hard rock music. The trend of genre crossovers and innovative collaborations has breathed new life into the metal scene, propelling established acts like Disturbed to newfound success through remixes and reinterpretations of their classic tracks.
In conclusion, the resurgence of hard rock in the music industry is a testament to the genre’s enduring appeal and its ability to innovate and adapt to changing musical trends. Bands like Sleep Token, Turnstile, and Ghost are leading the charge in redefining the boundaries of rock music and appealing to a diverse audience. With streaming services providing a platform for artists to experiment and connect with fans, the future of hard rock looks bright and promising.