HIM

HIM is a Finnish rock band formed in 1991, known for pioneering a genre they dubbed "love metal," which blends elements of gothic rock, heavy metal, and romantic themes. The band was fronted by charismatic lead vocalist Ville Valo, whose deep, melancholic voice became a signature of their sound. HIM gained international fame with their distinctive mix of dark, emotive lyrics and melodic yet heavy music.

The band's breakthrough came with their second album, Razorblade Romance (1999), which included the hit single "Join Me in Death." This song, along with others like "Right Here in My Arms" and "Gone with the Sin," established them as a significant force in the European rock scene. Their music often explored themes of love, death, and heartbreak, earning them a devoted fanbase and the nickname "love metal" for their unique style.

HIM continued to release successful albums throughout the 2000s, including Deep Shadows and Brilliant Highlights (2001), Love Metal (2003), and Dark Light (2005), the latter of which became the first Finnish album to achieve gold status in the United States. Their logo, the "heartagram," a fusion of a heart and a pentagram, became an iconic symbol representing their blend of love and darkness.

The band announced their breakup in 2017 after a farewell tour, ending their 26-year career. HIM's legacy endures through their influential music and the lasting impact they had on the gothic and metal music scenes, particularly in blending heavy sounds with romantic and introspective themes.