The Emergence of Rivethead Culture

The term 'rivethead' has a rich history, dating back to the 1940s when it was used as a nickname for North American automotive assembly line and steel construction workers. However, in the 1990s, the term took on a new meaning, specifically within the industrial music scene. This article delves into the evolution of rivethead culture, its inspirations, and its significance.

Influences from Movies and Military Aesthetics

Some parts of the rivethead scene emphasize a post-apocalyptic, dystopian influence, often inspired by movies. The style also incorporates elements of punk fashion, including fanned and/or dyed Mohawk hairstyles, and integrates fetish attire, such as tops, pants, and shorts made of black leather or PVC. These aesthetics are reminiscent of military uniforms and industrial settings, drawing inspiration from the harsh environments of urban centers.

Chemlab's Role in Popularizing Rivethead Culture

Industrial rock group Chemlab played a significant role in popularizing the term 'rivethead.' Their debut album, Burn Out at the Hydrogen Bar (1992), featured a track called 'Rivet Head,' which helped bring attention to the subculture. In 1993, founder Glenn Chase of Re-Constriction Records released Rivet Head Culture, a compilation that showcased electro-industrial and industrial rock acts from the North American underground music scene.

The Term's Origins

Despite its widespread use in the 1990s, Chemlab singer Jared Louche didn't recall where the term 'rivethead' originated. However, Glenn Chase is credited with defining the term within the context of the industrial music scene. Interestingly, the term had been used previously as a nickname for workers in the automotive and steel industries.

In conclusion, rivethead culture emerged as a fusion of post-apocalyptic and industrial influences, drawing inspiration from movies, military aesthetics, and urban environments. Chemlab's role in popularizing the term helped bring attention to this subculture, solidifying its place within the industrial music scene.

Chemlab rivethead