12 Famous Politicians That Love Metal Music

Politics and music are two different worlds. Yet, we find some global leaders taking solace and inspiration in the raw energy of metal music. This genre, known for its powerful riffs and rebellious spirit, has captured the hearts of many politicians, noblemen, and royals who are not afraid to embrace their inner metalhead. Let’s dive into the lives of 12 such figures who have managed to blend their love for metal with their political careers.

1. Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, Indonesia’s Current President

Joko Widodo, affectionately known as Jokowi, is not your typical head of state. As the President of Indonesia, he has openly expressed his love for metal bands like Anthrax, Metallica, and Napalm Death. His passion for this genre is so profound that in 2013, he received a bass guitar from Metallica’s Robert Trujillo, although it was later confiscated by the government due to ethical concerns.

Jokowi’s election in 2014 marked a historic moment as he became the world’s first heavy metal president, a title celebrated by fans and musicians alike, including Lamb of God’s Randy Blythe.

Despite his musical inclinations, Jokowi’s presidency has not been without controversy. He faced backlash from former supporters when he ignored pleas from notable musicians like Tony Iommi to spare the lives of two Australian drug smugglers. Nevertheless, Jokowi remains a beloved figure in the metal community, and his influence extends beyond Indonesia, inspiring other politicians to embrace their musical passions.

2. Gabriel Boric, Chile’s Current President

Gabriel Boric, the President of Chile, is another leader who proudly wears his love for metal on his sleeve. A fan of bands like Deftones, Nine Inch Nails, and Metallica, Boric has been spotted sporting rock and metal gear on numerous occasions. His favourite Tool track, “Aenema,” is proof of his eclectic taste in music, which also includes artists like Taylor Swift and K-pop.

Boric’s musical preferences have endeared him to a diverse audience, as he has proven that music has the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. While his taste in music may be varied, his commitment to his role as a leader remains steadfast, proving that one can enjoy the intensity of metal while navigating the complexities of political office.

3. Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex

Prince Harry, known for his adventurous spirit, has a surprising affinity for hardcore thrash metal. According to actor Dominic West, Harry’s iPod is filled with tracks from bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth. This revelation paints a picture of a royal who defies traditional expectations, embracing a genre often associated with rebellion and nonconformity.

Harry’s love for metal is not just a passing interest; it is a reflection of his desire to break free from the constraints of royal life. His musical tastes align with his broader efforts to carve out a unique identity.

4. Sanna Marin, Finland’s Prime Minister

As Finland’s Prime Minister, Sanna Marin has made headlines not only for her political achievements but also for her love of metal music. Known for her fondness for Rage Against the Machine, Marin has been seen attending festivals and mingling with rock royalty. Her appearance at Ruisrock in Turku, clad in a leather jacket and shorts, exemplifies her unapologetic embrace of the metal lifestyle.

Marin’s musical interests highlight her relatability and authenticity, qualities that have endeared her to the Finnish public. Her ability to balance the demands of leadership with her personal passions serves as an inspiration to those who believe that one can be both a dedicated politician and a devoted metalhead.

5. Freddy Lim, Taiwanese Politician and Musician

Freddy Lim, the frontman of the Taiwanese metal band Chthonic, seamlessly blends his roles as a musician and politician. In addition to founding the band Metal Clone X with ex-Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman, Lim has served as an activist and member of the Legislative Yuan. His leadership of Amnesty International Taiwan from 2010 to 2014 demonstrates his commitment to human rights and social justice.

Lim’s dual career as a musician and politician demonstrates the power of music to effect change. His ability to navigate both worlds with ease highlights the potential for artists to influence political discourse and inspire positive action.

6. Richard Burgon, UK Member of Parliament

Richard Burgon, a Member of Parliament for Leeds East, is a self-proclaimed metal enthusiast. His musical tastes include bands like Sleep, Iron Maiden, and Motörhead, and he has even collaborated with friends from the group Dream Tröll. Despite facing accusations of Nazi sympathies in 2017, Burgon successfully defended his reputation, winning a libel case against The Sun.

7. Randal Plunkett, 21st Baron of Dunsany

Randal Plunkett, known as the “death metal Irish baron,” is a renaissance man with a deep appreciation for metal music. His diverse musical tastes include Pantera, Slayer, and Iron Maiden, and he has been photographed wearing T-shirts from bands like Cannibal Corpse. Beyond his love for music, Plunkett is a filmmaker and environmentalist, dedicated to rewilding his 1,600-acre estate in Ireland.

8. Crown Prince Haakon of Norway

Crown Prince Haakon of Norway is a royal with a penchant for metal music. A fan of the band Mayhem, Haakon has attended concerts by groups like Kvelertak and Metallica. As a true metalhead, he performed with Norwegian legends Seigmen during his 40th birthday.

He has attended numerous music festivals across Europe, including the renowned Roskilde Festival in Denmark and the Quart Festival in Kristiansand, Norway. Haakon’s connection to metal music extends beyond mere attendance at festivals. In 2020, it was revealed that he is a fan of the Norwegian black metal band Mayhem, specifically their bassist Necrobutcher. 

9. Vladimir Zhirinovsky

Vladimir Zhirinovsky, the late Russian right-wing populist politician, was known for his controversial views and flamboyant personality. However, what many might not know is his unexpected connection to metal music. In the 1990s, Zhirinovsky surprised many when he appeared in a Liberal Democratic Party ad wearing a shirt for the Russian band Hellraiser.

This move left people puzzled, as it seemed out of character for a politician with his reputation. Yet, it showed that Vladimir really appreciated the genre. In doing so, he showed a side of him that was rarely seen in the political arena.

10. Sanae Takaichi

Sanae Takaichi, a prominent Japanese politician, made headlines when she became the first woman to enter Japan’s prime ministerial race. While her political career is noteworthy, Sanae avidly listens to metal music. Takaichi’s passion for the genre is evident in her personal life, where she has been known to attend metal concerts and engage with the music community.

11. Darkthrone’s Fenriz

Fenriz, the frontman of the iconic black metal band Darkthrone, is not only a revered musician but also a local politician in Oslo, Norway. Known for his dedication to the underground metal scene, Fenriz has long been celebrated as a “walking metal encyclopaedia.” His deep love for metal music is evident in his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for discovering new bands and promoting them with fervour.

12. Junichiro Koizumi

Junichiro Koizumi, a former Prime Minister of Japan, is another politician with a surprising connection to metal music. While he is widely recognized for his political achievements, Koizumi’s musical tastes reveal a different side of him. He is a fan of the heavy metal band X Japan, and during his tenure, the Liberal Democratic Party even used their song “Forever Love” in television commercials in 2001. Koizumi’s appreciation for metal music is complemented by his love for classical composers like Richard Wagner and contemporary artists like Ennio Morricone.