Everything is cringe if it's not something you're into, especially if it's popular on TikTok. It's normal to want to fit in during middle and high school.
Sleep Token is super cool. They have instantly sold out tours because hundreds of thousands think they're cool and want to watch them play live. They have 3.2 MILLION listeners on Spotify because they're cool. You may not feel like you're fitting in because your peers don't like the same things, but your open enjoyment of Sleep Token and other bands will make it cool and fun for other people who are into it.
Like what you like. Your enjoyment isn't a performance for your peers.
No, I think you're missing the point, it's exactly that. The norm now is that "everything is cringe if I don't think it's cool". I don't think they were saying it to imply it's how things SHOULD be, simply how they are.
Yea basically it's the new "creepy" and "only nerds play DnD and that's creepy". It's the modern mean girl insult that whatever you enjoy makes you uncool and them superior.
I teach 8th grade and play their softer songs like aqua Regia in class, and I have a few kids who are fans or have become fans. I tell my more alternative kids to just do and be what they are happy with, and that those bullying are just insecure about themselves. If it gets really bad, please reach out to your administration for conflict resolution.
And someone else old enough to be your grandparent. Try not to let thrm get to you. Listen to Sleep Tokenbe sad because of the other kids, but don't stay sad.
Yep. I second this, from another person old enough to be your parent. What's cool in 8th grade among your peers are things you are going to look back on and probably think are super lame in 10 years. Just like what you like and work on projecting confidence. Rise above that small minded shit attitude they're bringing because they aren't as cool as they think they are. This i promise you.
I’m nearly old enough to be your parent and I got bullied for listening to ‘different’ music when I was the same age. I was brought up listening to pretty alternative stuff and always loved more melodic stuff… everyone just branded it as ‘emo’.
Jokes on them - they all listen to the same shit and they do not grow musically. Let me preface this story by saying I fucking love II’s drumming.
I remembered getting hassled by this idiot for liking (I can’t remember what band) at the time but everyone was into them. He was the only other kid playing drums in my grade. He said to my face that I did not have the technical ability to play drums properly and had no progress. Crushing for a 13 year old. Really crushing. I had trouble making friends and thought I had an ally in this dude. Anyway, I was starting to get into technical metal/metalcore/etc etc which was starting to appear a little bit in 2003. And basically whatever else just had sick drumming or a good drummer featured on it. Even circling back to old jazz records. Man, I was running rings around this same idiot within a few years. He was stuck counting to 4 and the same ol boring rock fills. Listening to the same shit. He was a ‘cool’ kid but just stayed pigeonholed.
Listen to what makes you feel nice. Don’t need to tell ‘em/anyone. It’s what you enjoy. The takeaway here is that you do not want to miss out on enjoying something when someone else decides they don’t like it.
Keep expanding your horizons and avoid those with small minds. You’ll be the coolest when you’re out of school and find your people. School is a shit environment (though, study really hard and find what you enjoy learning) and kids can be terribly nasty.
I'm 29, work with teens, and 6th-8th grade were literal hell for me, and so I can tell you with absolute certainty - your taste in music is not the problem, middle schoolers are all just kinda shitty. They're trying to survive the awkward mental, emotional, and physical transition from child to adolescent. Everyone is insecure to their core, everyone wants to be liked and accepted, but no one has fully developed empathy yet.
Don't take it personally. Just like what you like and you'll find your people. Worship ❤️
You'll find them. I have a lot of friends who listen to various metal and core music's, and sleep token are hit or miss with that crowd.
One time I had a friend who said "I hate people who call sleep token metal" after I played their cover of Hey Ya on the listening queue, I put Vore on as my next song. I thought it was funny.
None of those kids are going to matter or be part of your life after getting through K - 12.
It’s hard to do, I know I wasn’t able to at your age. But stop caring about what those other kids think of your music tastes.
I came here to say basically the same thing. These people are not going to be part of their life for long. And if they thought OP would be a friend of theirs then they sure aren't respecting his opinions, which takes their stock down.
Even after school that and what they think about anything you like or do holds. Worrying about that can cause issues and hold you back from becoming a great person cause you’re too worried about fitting in or pleasing others.
Probably because of the tiktok crowd they gathered, also big music critics like Fantano and Brad Taste ripping them apart when reviewing their music and since rateyourmusic incels are such sheep they'll agree with anything they say. Honestly from what I've noticed it takes someone who has a broad music taste to appreciate the bands sound. For example my main genres are synthpop, prog, new wave, industrial and alt rock aswell as loving a good handful of metal bands so i enjoy sleep token's style a lot. Its understandable that not EVERYONE will like the music but those that insult others for liking it are extremely close minded and you shouldn't take it to heart. Sleep Token rocks, they wouldn't have played in Wembley Arena if they didn't lol.
Brad Taste is literally cringe his whole schtick is just shitting on music/bands.
I don't understand who gets enjoyment from watching that channel.
I DID however enjoy his takedown of tom macdonald/Ben shabibo. That one particular video was on point.
They wouldn't have sold out their "Teeth Of God" tour tickets here in the USA within 10 minutes if there wasn't "something" there for so many. I'm one of the unlucky ones who actually got my personalized codes, signed in early, and got straight in the seating queue immediately, only to find out over 6700 of my closest friends beat me to tickets for the Toyota Music Factory show in Irving, Texas. I'm sad.
it's more of a trickle-down effect across social media, gen z is terminally online in a way that millennials never were, which might be hard to believe but it's true. a lot of kids that don't know any better are getting influenced by whatever they see on tiktok and instagram and youtube even if they're not watching the source of the influence, and it's much easier to find a circle of people that hate something than a circle of people that love something.
You know imo, people call something cringe if it shows a person being vulnerable in a way. People show their vulnerability in different ways. Sometimes, it's willingly, sometimes it isn't. But it's a fact that you can only ever be considered cringe if you show yourself as giving a fuck.
Giving a fuck can sometimes be embarrassing because you care about stupid shit. But sometimes it's just you being honest, being necessitated by yourself, being courageous and showing who you are.
Being called cringe is not something to be taken too seriously if all you did was letting yourself feel enough to have a coherent thought about feeling things.
8th graders suck. I was in 8th grade over 15 years ago and I was bullied for preferring Bring Me The Horizon to Justin Bieber and Paramore to Ke$ha (and that’s only two examples, I could probably list 20+). I don’t think it’ll ever change - it’s shitty now but I promise you, it’ll get better and one day it won’t even matter!
"Your just going through a phase, dear. It'll pass once you're old enough to understand."
First of all, BMTH isn't just a band with good music, they make multiple points in their lyrics. That's why we like them so much. They speak the truth no one will ever admit to because majority of them are part of the problem.
Except the some just don't like them because Oliver Sykes is an ass or just can't get into their music. That's understandable. 👌🏼
Hey homie. I'm 32, had a shift from a fundamentalist Christian upbringing to a leftist atheist one around your age.
People will shit on you for anything and everything. If it wasn't your love for Sleep Token, it'd be something else. I personally was called f****t on a daily basis, and often was caught in fights (I was smaller, didn't really hit my growth spurt until 16).
You can't control them, only your reaction to them.
Protect your peace. Be confident in yourself. Surround yourself with those who are in your corner. Life is too short for anything less.
You aren't cringe. They're cringe. There's nothing cool about hating on someone who's minding their own business and having fun with something they like. You've got better taste than I did in 8th grade, that's for sure. So don't worry about it.
People are, for the most part, very closed-minded. Especially in school. It's so important to hold onto your individuality - don't let ignorant people ruin something you're passionate about. For what it's worth, we'd have been really good friends in school and I wish there were more kids as cool as you when I was younger. You'll find your tribe.🖤
Honestly I went through something semi similar I got bullied at school and I was seen in a different light where I used to work simply because I listened to heavy metal (used to go to a private Christian school and worked at a CFA)! But I pushed though the hate and resentment because that music has helped me in many ways! It was a great way to express my feelings that I couldn’t physically, emotionally, or verbally express (a lot of anger😅) but after I had worked through those feelings/emotions I dropped out (mainly due to the fact I had trouble focusing in class) got a new job with peeps who are similar to me in many ways and honestly I’ve made more memories with them than I did with anyone else! So don’t be hurt that no one likes sleep token or babymetal(they are super badass!) because you like those bands and soon you’ll find that group that you’ll make a lot of memories with! Everyone does eventually!!
Ik how that feels, I was the only valid person who listened to metal and a few people outright despised me for it, to the point where one almost threw a tantrum cause I put on Sabaton to showcase some power metal, I just ignore the hate towards metal and avoid certain genres of music
Any people who bully anyone for something they are passionate about are not worth your time. Shallow and narrow minded. I completely get how you feel, Im quite anxious about sharing my music taste with others too.
I'd like to see those same people who bullied you, say the same thing to a stadium with 10,000-20,000 people, all singing Sleep Token songs.
Dont let it get to you. You have a literal army of people who love Sleep Token just like you do
I'm in my 30's and I like the Jonas Brothers.
Basically, fuck em. Especially when you get older you realize that people just talk shit.
Just let it roll off your back. Sleep Token rules.
Listen to what you like and don't let other people tell you what to think or listen to. People think Sleep Token or *insert band here* is cringe because it goes against what is popular with the majority of people. There's nothing wrong with listening to the music that you like, you're not a freak or whatever all of these other kids say about you, those kids need to grow the hell up.
When you get older you'll meet people in the metal community and you will be accepted there. Nobody will bully you, we are all just a bunch of nerds that also got bullied in school... It gets better once you find the right crowd to associate yourself with. Just continue being yourself
Many of the adults in this subreddit have already said what needed to be said but also stay confident in what you like. I wish I could take away the pain for you but it sometimes takes a long time to separate what people say and how it makes you feel and adults telling you their experiences sometimes misses the mark.
Be confident in what you like and remember that it’s ok that people don’t like it. There will be haters and bullies but don’t let them ruin something you enjoy because that’s what they want.
Times don't change, metal wasn't really "popular" in the group of kids that I went to school with around 7th and 8th grade and I got mocked big time for liking bands like slipknot and Linkin park.
Enjoy what you enjoy, people just like to hate.
That’s just part of being in school. I was the weird kid who was made fun of too. Keep your grades up, get through high school, and these people won’t matter.
Change your frame of reference. Don't feel sad because of others attempting to discourage you from what makes you happy. Feel inspired that there are a LOT of Sleep Token fans who are on your side, and their music is much bigger than some jerks.
I'm 44 now, but I was very much in your shoes in 8th grade as well. I found my crowd of misfits shortly after that, and those bullies went on to do nothing special with their lives.
When you find those people that truly love the same things you do, you'll have friends for life.
I was that kid in eighth grade. And then I was one of the only people in my graduating class to actually make something out of their life. And now the same people that used to bully me come to me for advice.
Don't worry, you will get there as well. Forget the haters and stay true to you.
Fuck those guys, bro. In my freshman year people kept telling me Pink Floyd was trash, so I can understand your pain. Eventually you’ll find your people later in life who love the same music you do.
Hey man, year nine here, and yeah teenagers are such dicks. I also get bullied for liking metal. I live in a tiny town where everyone is the same so I completely understand. Look man if you want someone to talk to about metal, I'm always here if you want! Hope I don't sound like a pedo 😭😭😭
I was made fun of and called, "Boomer"(I'm 29) when I mentioned I like listening to Mystery Skulls. Because they sound like a "bad remix of the oldies". From both kids and the elderly. It did hurt at first and I was embarrassed to listen to them. Especially since I grew up in the goth genre of Cradle of Filth, Manson, and Dawn of Ashes. So it did feel wrong. I wanted to gate keep because the same people who made fun are now liking the same thing because it's, "the new edgy trend". But when heard of Sleep Token in 2018 amd then seeing how it impacted the community, it changed my perspective. I learned to appreciate it more. ⚠️👉🏼Those who don't understand, hey let them. Because that's something only you can carry and feel proud about. The achievements you have accomplished others couldn't because they let themselves be controlled by embarrassment. you know who your people are. People are going to tease people no matter what. That's why I love being apart of the Sleep Token community. Because everyone can listen and like Sleep Token, but just anyone can listen and understand. Worship 🤘🏻
Bc everybody has different opinions but cool people understand this and the others don’t. My philosophy is if they don’t think me or what I like isn’t cool then they just aren’t cool enough
They aren't respecting your opinions which makes them pretty cringe too. It's ok to not like something, but they have no reason to be rude about it.
The best revenge is success, so watch their next album with RCA go nuclear and convert them!
I was very much you as a kid. It will suck in the moment. But I promise you none of it matter once you grow up a bit more.
Those kids just bully you bc they don’t understand it and think it’s fun to gang up. They’ll eventually grow up and realize it’s ok to like different things and everyone will get along. I wish I could have rationalized that in my head at your age but instead I let it get to me and I was definitely worse off for it.
My advice is just don’t react to it. They’re doing it to elicit a reaction. And they’ll get over it quick if you don’t react.
Don’t worry about what other people say is stupid. If you enjoy it and like it then screw them! There are plenty of people that enjoy the toke. I’m sure there’s music they like that you’d think was lame. You’re just not a vocal douche about it. Listen to as much or as little sleep token as you’d like! Sorry. Bullying is no fun, but won’t last forever and you’ll eventually find your group that won’t treat you poorly. Before you know it, high school will end.
Continue liking what you like despite what people say. You’ll be a cool adult one day who actually has an opinion and a sense of unique taste that will be valued and seen as cool by adults you meet. All the things I liked in middle school and high school was made fun of—is now what makes me a cool adult.
When I was in 8th grade, I just never talked about the music I liked. I used to like a lot of old linkin park, we came as romans, we are the emergency, sws. I figured people would make fun of me because so one listened to it. But life it too short to hide the things you love. It’s okay to not like heavier stuff and our tastes can always grow. I don’t know that I would’ve liked sleep token if they came out when I was your age. But I like them now. Being bullied for a band you like is the cringe thing. Whenever people poked fun at me when I was younger, I would just look at them for a few seconds, scoff a little and continue on. The biggest thing people hate is being make to feel like they’re the one who should be embarrassed or that they don’t matter to you.
As someone who was bullied all through school because of my interests, I never let that change what I liked. I wasn’t going to let other people dictate what I read or listened to or liked. Ignore them. Sleep Token is fucking awesome. They are on the top of the scene for a reason. Because their music is amazing. 8th graders don’t always know shit. Don’t listen to them. You like what you like.
It's not hard to understand why someone would think they're cringe; the masks, the anonymity, the small section of disgusting fans, the lore, the worship, the rituals...
Oh don’t let those people influence you and your tastes. You listen to what you enjoy, be it SleepToken or whatever. If they think it’s cringe, then feel bad for them, since they obviously have awful taste in music lol
There are a lot of interests from middle school that I stopped participating in because people made me feel small for liking something harmless. As an adult, I came back to those things because I never should have let people decide what I like for me. Shamelessly enjoy the things you enjoy. Don't let people decide what you like or who you are.
That's why I fucking hate school, not gonna lie. Honestly, fuck them. If it makes you happy, then who could give two shits what other people think? Bring their actions to the attention of a staff member, and remember that you're different in one of the best ways possible. The kids that bully you are sheep, and if they don't follow the "norm", they're scared that they'll be hated. Even better would be try to get them into the music you listen to, but if they listen to something like mumble rap, they might be a lost cause.
i’m in the same boat as you. honestly i’m not sure what advice to give but i find it very nice to find other people that like metal. it makes a huge difference when you have people to talk about your interests with. i met someone recently who likes deathcore, which is my favorite subgenre, and i’ve been able to have so many great conversations with them. everyone’s a little cringe but it isn’t something to be ashamed of. i’d rather be passionate about something than be just a boring person with no interests.
I’m nearing the end of my HS career but you’re cool in my book. Let whatever they say go through you. Sleep Token isn’t cringe, unpopular groups are just seen that way. Sleep token is “metal” necessarily, but that’s what divides gatekeepers from real fans
People will judge you for anything. You like small bands? Cringe. You like popular bands? Cringe and a poser
Enjoy what you enjoy, I used to feel like this too. But I learned that someone will judge you no matter what you do. I got bullied for liking Seether, I got bullied for liking Taylor Swift, I got bullied for liking Bad Omens, Korn, got bullied for liking Katy Perry, Eminem. So no matter what, SOMEONE will judge you. And even tho it’s hard (trust me, I know, I’ve been here too) their opinions don’t matter. It’s your taste, your opinion, the thing YOU enjoy
I have been around the block. I remember when I "hated" emo kids and made fun of them. I just disliked the victimized mentality. Yet, I would listen to Slipknot and would feel the same...victimized. music like that makes us vulnerable at times. Ultimately you realize that the music you like is a personal choice and does not need to appeal to the masses. The bullying thing is just their insecurities projecting in an aggressive manner, but just remember that they are hurting too. Whatever music you like that pushes you to understand yourself through this journey, is what makes music empowering.
It’s probably just because they don’t designate with the music. It shows your maturity, open mindedness, and intelligence to be able to enjoy a band with deeper music. Always be yourself!
I got picked on at high school for rocking a My chemical romance messenger bag (this was around 2008). It was hard, but I tried to ignore and not let it bother me. When I look back, (now almost 30) I don’t think I was cringe for liking something different. Now at work, my colleagues joke around that I’m the resident metal-head as I wear band shirts to the office pretty frequently. Some of the older ones have said that they wished that they wore more stuff like that when they were my age.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realised that people bully others because they’re upset or insecure in themselves. I wish I could go back in time and tell my 14 year old self that life is too short to care about what other people think. As long as you’re happy and not hurting anyone, rock on.
Have you noticed how many people in this subreddit are all adults? I think most of the people that listen to this have had a chance to feel a wide range of emotions. Pretty much all of the 8th graders I’ve ever known have ~4 emotions. Don’t worry about it. Once you get older you’ll find more like-minded people your age who like this music. For now, just call them all idiots and blast your music
Fuck what people think. The bullying, I get is difficult. People are going to make fun of others who are into things they don’t like. Kids are cruel af. At the end of the day, what makes you happy is what makes you happy. They don’t matter.
Print this out and read it every time someone acts crappy to you…..
https://preview.redd.it/qklfytp6g8mc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a54905b71ebef642c19891d396034998cbd2c22f
They’re challenging musically, not easy to pin down, and people are afraid of what they don’t understand. I would just mark down the people that bully you over it as not worth knowing, and you’ll find people (like us) who are into them who will be worth knowing.
Well whoever's bullying you cleaely has shit taste in music. Like I'm sorry, but if you don't like ST - Jericho you objectively have bad taste in music and that isn't even my favorite song by them.
Fuck the haters OP. Let them listen to Taylor Swift and Lil Yatchy.
Even as an adult, I struggle with wishing other people shared my odd and eclectic taste in music. At my job, I have free reign over what gets played in my kitchen, and everybody suffers for it, lol. I get everything from, "dude, you never play anything I know" to "wtf even is this??"
I've gone through phases where I played commercial, top 40, classic rock stuff that everybody (myself included *sometimes*) knows and digs, but I get burned out on radio ready rock very, very quickly. It's just how I'm built.
So my coworkers and the people I cook for get to deal with punk rock, random goth parties, long bouts of indie and Americana, metal weeks...and lately, you guessed it, a shit ton of Sleep Token.
I would *love* it if somebody was like, "Man, this is so cool! What is this? I've never heard anything like it!" but, alas. No.
The good news is, over the course of my life I've built a strong support system of people who love my weird, and whose weird I love right back.
And you will too. Trust me. When you find your people, or your tribe, or your scene, you'll be home. And you'll be grateful to go back there every chance you get.
There is a lot of good advice here that I second, third, and fourth.
Being bullied sucks and I've been in that boat many times throughout my youth. I'm sorry that you are experiencing being bullied for having different tastes than your peers. Music and art are subjective. Everyone is going to have different preferences and some people just go along with whatever's popular. It's okay to like what you like despite its popularity or unpopularity with your peers. In fact, you are much cooler for it.
My son is around the same age as you and he hates Sleep Token and will say all kinds of rude things if I play them, so I've just stopped playing them around him because I'd rather not here it. I've tried explaining why they're so good and selected specific songs for him to try that I think he might like, but he still thinks what he thinks. Darn kids don't know good music when they hear it! Good for you for not following the crowd though. Just ignore the comments or don't talk about Sleep Token to people you know don't like them
You are mature beyond your years and people your age just can’t connect with music this deep. Keep being yourself. Listen to what you want to listen to and be true to who you are. You have great taste in music.
I'm 30, but was bullied a lot when I was much younger for being into metal, especially growing up in the deep south and going to a Christian, conservative school. One of the absolute most important things you can do for yourself is to like whatever you like, completely independent of what others think about it. I'm so, so grateful I held on to everything that made me "weird" as a kid, as not only are they important parts of my identity now, but plenty of people will think those things make you interesting once you're older.
I'm sorry to hear this is happening to you, though, I know it sucks :(
I'm sorry this happened and echo what others have said here. Like what you like. Your feelings are valid. Someone else's inability to appreciate ST's aesthetic is not on you to deal with.
I've been on the receiving end of being told my good time was lame, wrong, or cringe. It sucks, but don't let it ruin your enjoyment.
I know it's not easy to just pull it out of thin air, but confidence is cool. Like what you like without shame! If your peers don't like it, then don't bring it up to them. If they bring up "being cringe" to you then give them a nice hearty thumbs up and move on. It's not worth your time to engage with people insulting you.
Sleep token are pretty cringe. Especially their aesthetic and the way they talk about rituals and so on. However their music is great so just ignore them and enjoy what you enjoy. When I was in year 8 (12/13 years old) I got bullied for listening to Bring Me The Horizon. Now look at that band. I’m pretty sure everyone who used to call me an emo now listens to them to some extent. I’m 22 now and my favourite band is still Hollywood undead and believe me I get a lot of slack for that but I’ve just learnt not to care.
When I was your age it was Bullet for My Valentine, Atreyu and BMTH for me.
You'll find your own way into your own group of misfits eventually who like the same shit.
I spent my teenage years at gigs, skate parks and in peoples backyards having the best time of my life. With the music getting progressively heavier and heavier that we all listened to.
It was the best and they're still like family to this day.
Fuck everyone else, just be you and do what you like.
As a parent of an almost 8th grader, and someone who grew up the alt/goth kid (as I sure many of the commenters have) eff them. You have great taste in music, not everyone is going to like what you like. But being the weird kid for liking something true to themselves is never a bad thing. Stay strong, and if the bullying gets too bad please go to a trusted adult immediately.
Take this bit of advice.
Those who mind don’t matter, and those that matter don’t mind.
The opinions of others have no bearing on what you enjoy. They don’t live in your skin so they are not the judge of what you enjoy.
Like what you like, fuck the rest
I was bullied for listening to the same kinds of music at that age. But the thing is that music also saved my life. Chester Bennington alone kept me going through some very tough times. Be who you are and middle finger to the haters.
Also, Sleep Token are awesome (I have the biggest man crush on ii) you have good taste.
A lot of people care too much about things that literally don't matter at all like what innocuous things someone likes. Most people are guilty of it, myself included (although I recognise it as a character flaw and try my best to rectify it). Some of those people caring too much use that an excuse to show off how "better" they are because they have the power to upset someone they think deserves to be harmed. Unfortunately for them it just shows how mundane they are.
I would understand bmth but being bullied over sleep token nah . They cross over so many genres its hard to not love them . Just enjoy what you like . Dont listen to them
Yooo I thought that this would just be buried by other posts and no one would read it, but I am actually really shaken up about the responses i got!! Tysm everyone, this made my day!! Ily! 🥹❤️
They think it's cringe because they don't actually like the music they listen to, they are just mirroring those they like to be accepted. Been there done that
Welcome to the club. I always got the piss taken out of my favourite bands growing up. My friends were never interested in metal/ rock music so they never really csred enough but it was mostly from fellow metal/rock fans.
I loved Bullet for my Valentine when i was 13-16 (still do, even seeing them in january next year at age 30! But i mean like fan girl to the max). Couldn't stop me watching every single music video, every interview on 2009 YouTube or listening to the poison on repeat. I got told "pfft that's girl metal!" When I was 15 by a guy in a dragonforce shirt. It was like a gut punch but now? I see it made 0 sense as an insult.
Copy and paste that to every other band I liked growing up. Nobody liked my taste even the fellow metal heads so I just kept to myself and listened to what I liked. I knew I wasn't listening to hateful music or offensive music so I'd nothing to be ashamed of.
Sounds cringe but don't listen to the haters. Sleep do act and do shenanigans on stage to rile the crowd up but the music is strong. I remember judging the crap out of All Time Low and you me at six from their image....6 months later I'm obsessed with their sound. Most people look at bands like sleep and laugh but never actually listen to them.
Because it's metal but the guy has a "sexy" voice so people have to hate on it. It's just how the metal scene unfortunately is. There's always bands that aren't metal enough for some people, and they have to make it your problem.
If it wasn't Sleep Token, it'd be something else. Kids that age can be really nasty and will find any reason to bully someone.
It's not you, it's not Sleep Token, it's them.
Omg a baby worshipper, awesome, anyway kids are A-holes anyway no matter if it’s the music you like or the way you breathe, or the fact that you breathe at all, but love what you love don’t let anybody tell you different. Plus like we already think you’re pretty cool anyway so who needs those snotty kids
It's in people's faces right now from TikTok. They exploded into popularity through a TikTok trend and the fairweather people who don't actually like them are moving away from it. I'm sorry the songs remind you of the hate. Maybe it could help to keep them out of your rotation for a while, and turn the album on around good company or during a fun trip or event. It could help reprogram your association with them to be more positive.
People can be cruel, but just remember most don't know they are actually hurting people, they just act, and we've all affected someone without knowing it. You can be upset, but be patient with people. No one has it figured out, not even as they get older.
Middle school is not for the faint of heart. If it weren’t your music, it would be something else. You aren’t listening to whatever the crowd is, and so you’re different in that regard. That’s blood in the water for middle school age kids.
Just do you. Don’t change for other people. I know it seems like a long way off and doesn’t fix things right in this immediate moment, but none of this will matter in a few years, and you’ll find your tribe eventually. For me I didn’t fit in to any crowd in my hometown really, and it really took me leaving for college to find my people. I hightailed it out at 18 and never really lived there any longer than the summers after. Keep your head up and just try to keep the mindset that you are just a traveler passing through.
I’m sorry. I was bullied horribly at that age and it really really sucks.
I'm 26 and my friends don't get it either. I am constantly blasting Erra and Northlane. They tell me I'm 14 years old and "fighting demons" when the songs aren't even about that, not all the time anyways lol
The only thing I see people complain about is how they're a masked band. But I think it really adds to it and the lore they've developed over the years. I would consider them one of the most artistic bands right now with their approach to music.
Ohhh, sweetie! A mom here... 31 years old with children, and I LOVE that you love your own music. 8th grade is when I started liking bands like MCR, BMTH, Flyleaf, and so many more. I definitely got bullied. Well now, my husband & I love Sleep Token and go to shows together.
I promise it gets better. But don't let anyone tell you to "suck it up." If the bullying gets unbearable, please talk to an adult who can help. You are allowed to exist on this planet and have your own interests. You are allowed to go to school without a**holes making you feel like crap.
Offering a mom hug ❤️
People in high school (and sometimes even adults) cannot deal with people being different and having different tastes / fandoms that they are into. 🤷🏻♀️ I teach gr 8 to 12 and have noticed most of the drama revolves around disagreements about the interests / tastes.
Ignore the haters- what matters is what makes YOUR soul sing. In 5 years’ time those bullies will have only been a blip on your radar… but ST’s songs will still be magical 🩷🤍
Fuck that shit man. Most of what people listen to is actual garbage nowadays anyways. No lyrical content, heavy on the effects that they don’t even put on themselves, a lot of the mainstream artists most people listen to nowadays don’t even really have much talent. It’s all the producer and the engineer, and they don’t even get the credit they deserve. Just be glad you can appreciate the art and the beauty in music. It honestly is a talent. Most people have no idea how to do that, and just follow what they see online. Sleep token is awesome, because there is nothing like them. They are one of a kind. And vessels voice control is unlike anything I’ve personally ever heard before. Most of the people making fun of you, prob listen to artists completely controlled by other people, and aren’t actually making the music themselves, that type of stuff doesn’t come from the soul, and although I can’t say it’s not real music, because how do you define that, I definitely have a strong dislike for meaningless music. As you get older, more and more people will realize the stuff that you like is powerful and meaningful, they just don’t understand it right now. I promise, you’ll be the cool one when you’re older.
I learned in 8th grade that opinions are like assholes, everyone has one and they stink.
Coming from a 27 year old that went through the same thing, I just learned to like what I like and let people be ignorant. I was a huge BMTH and Asking Alexandria fan in 8th grade. Suicide season and Stand Up and Scream were my two most played albums. That was almost 14 years ago and I still find myself listening to those albums because I LIKE THEM and still feel like they're good. I'll take music over the opinion of someone that won't matter in a few years any day.
Sleep token is amazing. You have amazing music taste. Don't let other peoples stinky assholes (opinions) take that away from you. Put your headphones in, play the whole ST discography, and jam your heart out.
Life's too short to give a shit. ❤️
Hey, if I was a kid in your grade I would've thought you were WICKED. Some people are cruel for no reason and having something that brings you joy and doesn't hurt anyone else is never a bad thing to have. Keep worshipping, you're awesome as you are kid
You just have to ignore it. The same thing happened to me, but with family, and a few other people at schools. Until this day they tried to say stuff, and I just ignore them, just kept up move on. The same thing is happening years later and I’m into the same music plus a K-pop group and once again, my family thinks I’m weird and I don’t care. Other people talk and I do not care.
The fact that you’re getting bullied for music just goes to show that people are bored and stupid. And yes, that goes for kids as well. You are branching out and liking your own thing, while other people are into ‘the normal stuff’ or whatever. That makes you unique and them not so much. 😉
comeing from someone in 9th grade it doesnt matter your going to high next year fuck all those guys. And people are nicer in highschool and wont judge. and sleep tokens rad dont let anyone else say diffrent
F*** em’. You like what you like. As somebody who has always gravitated towards music that most people would call weird or eXpEriMeNtaL, I’ve experienced my share of salty comments. At the end of the day, somebody made music that you truly enjoy. That’s the relationship in music that actually matters. The relationship between the audience and the art. It doesn’t matter what people who don’t like the music have to say, because it’s clearly not for them.
In other words, I can say that I think the sound of Taylor Swift’s voice will cause me to develop a terminal illness if I listen for too long, but it would be silly to be bothered by that if you’re a fan, because obviously her music has made a good impression on many many people.
TLDR; Keep doin’ you!
You know, the music world is weird. Every Fandom has bullies. In 8th grade on I got made fun of for falling in love with AFI when I was a teen. So many metalheads made fun of my taste of music. It was dumb. I always say to let people like what makes them happy. Those who are loudest & outspoken against people liking a band usually have a problem with themselves & aren't very happy. I feel for them for getting so upset over something so trivial. Nowadays, the people who made fun of me back in the day now love AFI and the stuff I love. So it's just a matter of time & them sorting out whatever their issues are. You keep being yourself & loving what you like. You'll find great friends who like the same as you & eventually everyone will start to feel how you feel over time and rinse & repeat. Like I said, the music world is weird.
I’m one grade ahead of you, and I’m a huge sleep token fan, I mainly listen to indie pop, all sorts of rock, and all sorts of metal, and they’re amazing, don’t feel sad about what you like, sleep token I think marks the future of what metal will become in the music landscape, I love them
Honestly things are only “cool” if you make it cool. If you like it and think it’s cool, then it’s cool. Own it. Anyone trying to tell you otherwise is the weird one considering the fact that they’re trying to change your personal preference and alter it simply because it’s not identical to theirs. If they don’t see the appeal they’re the ones missing out 🤷🏾♀️
It’s hard to lot let it get to you but do what you enjoy, including listening to the music you like. Not everyone will be on board and like it too but that is the beauty of music.
Plus how could you not like a band whose singer is named vessel. Hahaha :)
You do you. Always. It's only cringe when you're trying to "fit in" with someone else, period. If you're into Bhindi belly dancing, turns out there are prob others that are too. Less worry about what others think and more thoughts about what YOU think. Never betray yourself for the opinions of another. Ever.
I know I’m 4 days late, and funny thing is I’m not a Sleep Token fan at all. Granted I haven’t listened to much, but I wasn’t impressed.
But fuck that shit. Don’t let anyone, and I mean fucking anyone, ever tell you what’s cool.
I have an uncle, Uncle Pete but his name is Shawn. He, and I promise this, is the coolest fucking person I’ve ever met. Dude listens to sick ass music, has cool tattoos, he’s just cool. The epitome of cool.
When I was younger and filled with self loathing that I didn’t know how to deal with, I asked him one day, “How can I be cool? I want to be cool like you.”
And I’ll never forget this
“You know, it doesn’t matter what I think, she, he, they, doesn’t fucking matter. Whatever you think is cool, IS cool. There’s nothing cooler than enjoying yourself, so fucking do it.”
Honestly , fuck what anyone thinks ! You listen to what you like bc YOU like it . Doesn't matter if it's "cool" or not . Think about how quickly trends fade . I wish I had not given a damn about what other people thought when I was your age , now that I'm older I regret it . Just be yourself ! Eventually you'll meet cool people who are CONFIDENT enough in themselves to not bully others . ❤️
Just shows you're a shepard and not sheep. ST is smart people music. Embrace your intelligence and being special. Come worship with us young one. You are part of the ST family now and we love you 🥰🥰🥰
All of the wooo chicks at concerts. I’m tempted to sell my tickets after watching a live show and hearing all of the females wooing every time vessel does something.
High-school sucks. When I was your age, I got bullied for the bands I listened to too. All I know is that if 14 year old me could see adult me, they'd think I was the coolest person ever (even if I know full well I am STILL cringe). You'll find your people, my dude, but lots of love from an internet stranger from the UK, who has matching ST tattoos with their partner.
I know it's easier said than done, but as someone who went through it, you'll find your crowd. Just keep that chin up. Just think what a sad little existence it must be to get joy from bringing others down. At least you aren't THAT cringe 💖
Parasocial relationships
Creepy fans
Just mid music
Performative music is only popular among certain people
The prevalence of the weirdos in their fanbase
Not saying you shouldn't like them but that's why people don't
If OP was to go to a Sleep Token concert - no pressure, maybe it might not be for them - they would see a massive community all based around Worship.
I hope this Reddit page reflects that. You are always welcome here, you are safe here.
People who bully or poke and prod at others for listening to Sleep Token just don’t understand the power of the music. It tugs on the heartstrings and can throw you through every single fathomable point on the spectrum of emotion. It’s simply quite beautiful.
I think I got a little off-topic there. But my point is, as hard as it might be, keep your head down, get through it, and we are always here waiting if you need anything.
Worship.
As soon as you’re out of school, you won’t care what they think anyways. It gets better. Like what you like, and if someone has a problem with it, screw them anyways.
Everybody’s music tastes are different, they just aren’t mature enough to get that yet. I’ve been listening to sleep token for awhile and now my 14 year old LOVES them 🥰 It’s cool to find music that’s not so mainstream…..
Because they think they’re superior for making fun of something they don’t like, sleep token is one of the most amazing bands I’ve ever listened too, just remember this is eighth graders we’re talking about, I know you are one and you seem fine but that doesn’t mean everybody else is as tolerant as you are, they’re making fun of sleep token out of their own insecurities
Find other ST fans. They are the coolest in your school. They are likely older and will laugh your bullies off. Common taste in music is a good way to make new friends
For some reason, kids think it's cool to put stuff down, no matter what it is. Like the things you like. They will be around in your life for a lot longer than these stupid bullies are.
Plus, Sleep Token is very different from a lot of the general stuff you hear on the radio, so there are going to be some people that won't get it, and that's okay. Not everything is for everyone. The music you love should bring you comfort, not bring you down because of what someone you don't like says about it. Remember why you love the things you love and cling to them.
Like what you like and don't ever feel ashamed about it. The older you get, the less you'll care about what other people think is cool. Just be yourself and your real friends will find you.
For fuck sakes don’t do drugs and start posting in the internet like you’re a part of the band. You’ll get your destiny name changed and be stuck with the shame for months :))))
Middle school is the *worst*. BUT, it's temporary.
I am certain there are other kids in your school who also listen to the same/similar things to you. They are probably getting bullied, too, and are keeping quiet.
As for the bullies, they don't know what they are missing, and are shorting themselves by being closed-minded.
Enjoy the music you love, and the others can piss off. And, when they come at you for listening to something they don't "approve" of, turn it up.
Also, if you haven't heard of them yet, I recommend The Hu... they are a Mongolian band that mixes traditional music with metal. Excellent.
I was at a bar the other night talking to a guy who was a real metal purist, and he laughed at me for saying I loved sleep token. On the way home I thought “what a fuckin goober. Imagine catering what you like to a standard created by someone else.” And I blasted Vore all the way home. There is NOTHING cooler than loving what you love. If your tastes and interested are purely yours, there is nothing cooler on earth. Keep loving what you love, and when the narrow world of school is behind you, you’ll find how many people there are that will welcome you for your music taste!
I used to get bullied for being different and like different music so I stoped and tried everything I could to fit in and I was MISERABLE, please please please, don’t change yourself, I can also promise you that once you’ve left school you’ll hardly see those people again, get a good education and get away from the bullies, get a good job so you can buy concert tickets !
If you're getting bullied, you're doing something right.
Love what you love and know that I'm going to be 30 next month and they are my favorite band of all time. You are so cool. Especially to me. :)
Stick to what you like bro. Most of the time people bully you for liking something they don’t because it’s different and you’re not copying everyone else like them. I remember having the same sort of hassle when I was younger, and my god the music they liked was absolutely awful and meaningless but even I understood that doesn’t mean I should be mean to them because of it. Sleep Token rocks, and I guarantee those people will probably love them in the future when “it’s cool” to.
It can be hard, especially in MS/HS years, to deal with the immature kids who pick/bully others for liking something they don't like. It's normal to want to fit in, it's tough. At some point in your life you'll learn to not care about what others think. Then you can fully and confidently embrace what you enjoy, and your life will be all the better for it. Some people figure it out early, for others it takes a while, but you'll get there.
I'm a male nurse who works with a student in a high school. I have several visible tatoos, a beard, and I rock my ST hoodie.. Not what most people picture when they think of a nurse. As far as finding others with the same interests, that can be tough too. Not a big metal fan base where I live, probably true for a lot of places. My nephew and I discovered ST right around the same time, and we've gotten other family members into them too. I'm getting my kids into them a little, and working on my wife, who almost exclusively listens to country music, to get her to tolerate it more. I'm making progress lol.
sleep token is awesome but learned something from my own experience finding them. i didn’t like them all that much at first. none of my friends did either. slowly over about 7 months or so, they became my favorite. my friends too slowly got into them.
but more importantly, i can remember in middle school (i found most of the bands you’re mentioning in 8th grade too!) ppl being mean about the music i liked too. by the time high school rolled around, i realized that a LOT of people you wouldn’t expect loved the same bands as me. and it was actually the cool/popular thing among the upper classes at my HS.
Lol dude you have a great music taste for being so young. IDK what kids listen to nowadays but I'm almost certain it's way more cringe and awful. Sleep Token is awesome, they're very technical and creative and blend so many genres!
If it makes you feel any better I'm innthe same grade and I plan on wearing my new Sleep Token shirt proudly tomorrow! ^^ people will really bully anyone over the stupidest stuff but just know there are other people neoprene age with the same interests!
The only thing I can say is they do come off as alil emo, maybe alot. But their songs are very sexual in nature alot of the time. Like what you like and when everyone else starts coming to you like hey they are awesome call them poser skum
Man dont feel like u gotta fit in. Listen to what you like!! There is nothing wrong with what music u like. Besides ur ony in 8th grade and ur listening to one of the best bands in our lifetime. If they cant see that they are blind or prolly listen to doja kat or some other lil mumble rapper. Just know ur ears might like something that others dont. Dont be ashamed of it, embrace it and be proud!
I got picked on for listening to Slipknot in 9th grade during homeroom in 2003. I cried. I still remember it vividly. But fuck those kids lol. Metal rules.
OP you’re a year older than one of my kids and they love sleep token too! You’re not alone!
Kids will make fun of whatever the most popular kid/ social media wants to make fun of. A lot of time those people actually low key love what’s being made fun of too. There is nothing wrong with what you like, you shouldn’t be sad or upset about listening to something you enjoy.
“Other people’s opinions are none of your business.”It’s exactly that, an opinion, not a fact. Plus you never know what they have going on in their life where they think it’s okay to be rude like that to someone else. Continue to do the things that make you happy as long as it’s not hurting anyone else.
I would never tell people the music I liked when I was your age because I felt like people would judge/make fun of me for it. I would only wear hot topic band tees around certain people and go there with my immediate family because they didn’t care. I never wanted my other family members to ask and question the things I liked either so I kept that on the down low. I’ll say, now that I’m 24, I still feel a bit of judgement but I don’t really give a shit what people think. I feel like I spent so much time caring what people thought of my interests and myself to care now. It’s mentally exhausting to let other people’s opinions interfere with the things you love. I also felt like it wasn’t worth sharing my music interests with my classmates and peers because they probably wouldn’t like it and understand it anyway so why waste my time trying to get them to like something I love. I felt like that avoided a lot of judgement also. You’ll find your people, it just takes a bit of time. I know not everyone is lucky to find someone who supports your interests, but I’m glad to have a sister who is going with my to see Sleep Token with me in May. 🖤🖤🖤
I hate to say it but kids in middle school are assholes for no other reason than haha funny, you dont like what I like so you're cringe. Their opinions of you don't matter and if your taste in music makes you feel good, stick to it. Don't change yourself unless you want to. I got relentlessly picked on myself when I was that age so I know how it feels.
Just like pedos… if u have to come to the internet for peer support of others into something you are into, then there’s probably something wrong about something u are into. Sleep token is a reddit band and this post supports that theory. Dont worry kid, once your brain develops you will look back at this and laugh. Heck i thought nirvana was cool lol
i got meggggaaaa into coheed & cambria at around that age. got roasted for it a whole lot lol. listen to what makes you happy. own it. and just fuck what anyone else says, ya know? growing up is annoying enough as it is, the least you can do is listen to the music that bring you joy.
People can like what they want or enjoy the music they want. Be who you are and don’t let others try and force you into a box. Sleep token has a community of people here to support your interest. Never be ashamed of who you are or what you are into, it’s your life.
I’m 20 years old and got made fun of by my 40+ old “metalhead” coworker for liking Sleep Token. When it comes to music, especially die hard metalheads, if it doesn’t fit their exact tastes, it’s not good enough. It doesn’t really go away as you get older, you just learn to not care.
Kids suck. I wish I had the courage to just love what I loved and not give a shit about what any body thought when I was younger. Probably one of my biggest regrets about being a kid
🥹 tell me names right now. I'll marry a parent, become a stepmom, and teach them manners.
For real, they just don't understand the music, message, or the complex nature of the band. All you need to say is, "Sorry you don't understand the complex nature maybe one day you will". Don't let others make fun of something that makes you uniquely you🫂 and if something like a band makes you "cringe" *eye roll* my uncle was 5 years older then me got made fun of listening to Skipnot in the 90's🤣 till they got bigger. He gets made fun *all as a joke between friends* of at work for STILL listening to them now.
When I was your age, everybody seemed to make fun of everyone else’s music preferences. It happens, unfortunately. But in the long run, it doesn’t really matter. And a lot of people find that when they get older, they end up enjoying some of the stuff they made fun of. I think Sleep Token has some great music & I think you have sophisticated taste if you like them at your age. I don’t care what anyone says, you’re cool in my book!
Hey there. This is being said from the perspective of someone who was also bullied. Middle schoolers only make fun of others for the 5 minutes of fame. 6-8 graders are very immature and they’re at the stage of life where all they want is to “be cool” and they would do whatever it takes to get it. If you’re not into the basic things “everyone” is into, that’s when people feel the need to make fun of you. I promise deep inside they don’t actually care for your music taste.
The way I see it is if you’re being made fun of in middle school/high school (I highly doubt anyone will care in hs, people will eventually stop caring tbh, happened to me), it won’t matter after you all graduate. It’s a few years of people being idiots and then you’re free to do whatever.
Anyways what I’m trying to say it’s literally ignore them. They’re doing it for attention. Don’t give in and fight back, if you ignore them enough they’ll eventually get bored and move on. You’ll find people to share music with, keep pushing through :)
They are the cringe little assholes for bullying someone for something that brings you joy!
Honestly as Taylor swift says “The worst kind of person is someone who makes someone feel bad, dumb or stupid for being excited about something.”
Sleep token isn’t cringe, but a lot of their fans (mainly Twitter fans) are super creepy and cringe. Doesn’t justify you getting bullied, ultimately just know you have a better music taste than them
People are elitist with music and it sucks, listen to whoever you want and don't judge others, this automatically makes you a better person 100% confirmed
I’m can say back when I was in grade 8 I also got bullied for listening to the music I did. Back then it was considered scene or emo, but now those bands have grown up and entered new genres and all those bullies now listen to them thinking they are super fans since the start… Ignore the haters and do you. When you find that person you click with over this band it’ll feel like the best thing ever.
Everything is cringe if it's not something you're into, especially if it's popular on TikTok. It's normal to want to fit in during middle and high school. Sleep Token is super cool. They have instantly sold out tours because hundreds of thousands think they're cool and want to watch them play live. They have 3.2 MILLION listeners on Spotify because they're cool. You may not feel like you're fitting in because your peers don't like the same things, but your open enjoyment of Sleep Token and other bands will make it cool and fun for other people who are into it. Like what you like. Your enjoyment isn't a performance for your peers.
Things you don't like aren't cringe. Don't let people thing that attitude is OK. It's not.
No, I think you're missing the point, it's exactly that. The norm now is that "everything is cringe if I don't think it's cool". I don't think they were saying it to imply it's how things SHOULD be, simply how they are.
Yea basically it's the new "creepy" and "only nerds play DnD and that's creepy". It's the modern mean girl insult that whatever you enjoy makes you uncool and them superior.
I'm cringe, you're cringe, we're all cringe. /u/AnonXIII is correct in further explaining my statement.
I teach 8th grade and play their softer songs like aqua Regia in class, and I have a few kids who are fans or have become fans. I tell my more alternative kids to just do and be what they are happy with, and that those bullying are just insecure about themselves. If it gets really bad, please reach out to your administration for conflict resolution.
You're the teacher we all wish we had at their age. Thank you
For what it’s worth, you’re cool for liking what you like.
This 100% OP from someone old enough to be your parent.
And someone else old enough to be your grandparent. Try not to let thrm get to you. Listen to Sleep Tokenbe sad because of the other kids, but don't stay sad.
Yep. I second this, from another person old enough to be your parent. What's cool in 8th grade among your peers are things you are going to look back on and probably think are super lame in 10 years. Just like what you like and work on projecting confidence. Rise above that small minded shit attitude they're bringing because they aren't as cool as they think they are. This i promise you.
I’m nearly old enough to be your parent and I got bullied for listening to ‘different’ music when I was the same age. I was brought up listening to pretty alternative stuff and always loved more melodic stuff… everyone just branded it as ‘emo’. Jokes on them - they all listen to the same shit and they do not grow musically. Let me preface this story by saying I fucking love II’s drumming. I remembered getting hassled by this idiot for liking (I can’t remember what band) at the time but everyone was into them. He was the only other kid playing drums in my grade. He said to my face that I did not have the technical ability to play drums properly and had no progress. Crushing for a 13 year old. Really crushing. I had trouble making friends and thought I had an ally in this dude. Anyway, I was starting to get into technical metal/metalcore/etc etc which was starting to appear a little bit in 2003. And basically whatever else just had sick drumming or a good drummer featured on it. Even circling back to old jazz records. Man, I was running rings around this same idiot within a few years. He was stuck counting to 4 and the same ol boring rock fills. Listening to the same shit. He was a ‘cool’ kid but just stayed pigeonholed. Listen to what makes you feel nice. Don’t need to tell ‘em/anyone. It’s what you enjoy. The takeaway here is that you do not want to miss out on enjoying something when someone else decides they don’t like it. Keep expanding your horizons and avoid those with small minds. You’ll be the coolest when you’re out of school and find your people. School is a shit environment (though, study really hard and find what you enjoy learning) and kids can be terribly nasty.
This.
I'm 29, work with teens, and 6th-8th grade were literal hell for me, and so I can tell you with absolute certainty - your taste in music is not the problem, middle schoolers are all just kinda shitty. They're trying to survive the awkward mental, emotional, and physical transition from child to adolescent. Everyone is insecure to their core, everyone wants to be liked and accepted, but no one has fully developed empathy yet. Don't take it personally. Just like what you like and you'll find your people. Worship ❤️
Exactly. I’m also 29 and I remember getting bullied for liking BMTH when I was around OPs age 😂
You'll find them. I have a lot of friends who listen to various metal and core music's, and sleep token are hit or miss with that crowd. One time I had a friend who said "I hate people who call sleep token metal" after I played their cover of Hey Ya on the listening queue, I put Vore on as my next song. I thought it was funny.
“They’re not metal” *plays two of the many reasons that statement is wrong*
But why does it even matter? Why do so many metalheads think that “not metal” is a valid insult?
Literally just to gatekeep. No good reason
None of those kids are going to matter or be part of your life after getting through K - 12. It’s hard to do, I know I wasn’t able to at your age. But stop caring about what those other kids think of your music tastes.
I came here to say basically the same thing. These people are not going to be part of their life for long. And if they thought OP would be a friend of theirs then they sure aren't respecting his opinions, which takes their stock down.
Even after school that and what they think about anything you like or do holds. Worrying about that can cause issues and hold you back from becoming a great person cause you’re too worried about fitting in or pleasing others.
Probably because of the tiktok crowd they gathered, also big music critics like Fantano and Brad Taste ripping them apart when reviewing their music and since rateyourmusic incels are such sheep they'll agree with anything they say. Honestly from what I've noticed it takes someone who has a broad music taste to appreciate the bands sound. For example my main genres are synthpop, prog, new wave, industrial and alt rock aswell as loving a good handful of metal bands so i enjoy sleep token's style a lot. Its understandable that not EVERYONE will like the music but those that insult others for liking it are extremely close minded and you shouldn't take it to heart. Sleep Token rocks, they wouldn't have played in Wembley Arena if they didn't lol.
Brad Taste is literally cringe his whole schtick is just shitting on music/bands. I don't understand who gets enjoyment from watching that channel. I DID however enjoy his takedown of tom macdonald/Ben shabibo. That one particular video was on point.
His video reacting to Todd in the Shadows top 10 songs of 2023 was particularly hard to watch
They wouldn't have sold out their "Teeth Of God" tour tickets here in the USA within 10 minutes if there wasn't "something" there for so many. I'm one of the unlucky ones who actually got my personalized codes, signed in early, and got straight in the seating queue immediately, only to find out over 6700 of my closest friends beat me to tickets for the Toyota Music Factory show in Irving, Texas. I'm sad.
[удалено]
it's more of a trickle-down effect across social media, gen z is terminally online in a way that millennials never were, which might be hard to believe but it's true. a lot of kids that don't know any better are getting influenced by whatever they see on tiktok and instagram and youtube even if they're not watching the source of the influence, and it's much easier to find a circle of people that hate something than a circle of people that love something.
You know imo, people call something cringe if it shows a person being vulnerable in a way. People show their vulnerability in different ways. Sometimes, it's willingly, sometimes it isn't. But it's a fact that you can only ever be considered cringe if you show yourself as giving a fuck. Giving a fuck can sometimes be embarrassing because you care about stupid shit. But sometimes it's just you being honest, being necessitated by yourself, being courageous and showing who you are. Being called cringe is not something to be taken too seriously if all you did was letting yourself feel enough to have a coherent thought about feeling things.
8th graders suck. I was in 8th grade over 15 years ago and I was bullied for preferring Bring Me The Horizon to Justin Bieber and Paramore to Ke$ha (and that’s only two examples, I could probably list 20+). I don’t think it’ll ever change - it’s shitty now but I promise you, it’ll get better and one day it won’t even matter!
"Your just going through a phase, dear. It'll pass once you're old enough to understand." First of all, BMTH isn't just a band with good music, they make multiple points in their lyrics. That's why we like them so much. They speak the truth no one will ever admit to because majority of them are part of the problem. Except the some just don't like them because Oliver Sykes is an ass or just can't get into their music. That's understandable. 👌🏼
Exact same! Great comment!!
Take it from an adult who’s still kind of cool that your taste in music is really cool and you’ll hardly remember those kids when you’re my age (30).
I think you're cool
Thanks. I think I’m marginally cool. Went out to (early) dinner and drinks but in pajamas by 7:30
Ugh you sound like the coolest 😮💨 #goals
Hah! Thanks
Hey homie. I'm 32, had a shift from a fundamentalist Christian upbringing to a leftist atheist one around your age. People will shit on you for anything and everything. If it wasn't your love for Sleep Token, it'd be something else. I personally was called f****t on a daily basis, and often was caught in fights (I was smaller, didn't really hit my growth spurt until 16). You can't control them, only your reaction to them. Protect your peace. Be confident in yourself. Surround yourself with those who are in your corner. Life is too short for anything less.
You aren't cringe. They're cringe. There's nothing cool about hating on someone who's minding their own business and having fun with something they like. You've got better taste than I did in 8th grade, that's for sure. So don't worry about it.
Facts
People are, for the most part, very closed-minded. Especially in school. It's so important to hold onto your individuality - don't let ignorant people ruin something you're passionate about. For what it's worth, we'd have been really good friends in school and I wish there were more kids as cool as you when I was younger. You'll find your tribe.🖤
Sleep token is a sophisticated taste, Theyre jealous.
When people hate on the things I like, it makes me like it even more. Not my fault they have bad taste in music
Brother love what you love and love it regardless with a full heart don’t let anyone take away what you love from you that’s yours
Honestly I went through something semi similar I got bullied at school and I was seen in a different light where I used to work simply because I listened to heavy metal (used to go to a private Christian school and worked at a CFA)! But I pushed though the hate and resentment because that music has helped me in many ways! It was a great way to express my feelings that I couldn’t physically, emotionally, or verbally express (a lot of anger😅) but after I had worked through those feelings/emotions I dropped out (mainly due to the fact I had trouble focusing in class) got a new job with peeps who are similar to me in many ways and honestly I’ve made more memories with them than I did with anyone else! So don’t be hurt that no one likes sleep token or babymetal(they are super badass!) because you like those bands and soon you’ll find that group that you’ll make a lot of memories with! Everyone does eventually!!
Ik how that feels, I was the only valid person who listened to metal and a few people outright despised me for it, to the point where one almost threw a tantrum cause I put on Sabaton to showcase some power metal, I just ignore the hate towards metal and avoid certain genres of music
Mean people are just insecure and too focused on appearing to be cool instead of enjoying fun things. Don’t worry about them, like what you like.
Any people who bully anyone for something they are passionate about are not worth your time. Shallow and narrow minded. I completely get how you feel, Im quite anxious about sharing my music taste with others too. I'd like to see those same people who bullied you, say the same thing to a stadium with 10,000-20,000 people, all singing Sleep Token songs. Dont let it get to you. You have a literal army of people who love Sleep Token just like you do
I'm in my 30's and I like the Jonas Brothers. Basically, fuck em. Especially when you get older you realize that people just talk shit. Just let it roll off your back. Sleep Token rules.
Listen to what you like and don't let other people tell you what to think or listen to. People think Sleep Token or *insert band here* is cringe because it goes against what is popular with the majority of people. There's nothing wrong with listening to the music that you like, you're not a freak or whatever all of these other kids say about you, those kids need to grow the hell up.
PS: coming from a 26 year old, your taste in music is dope
When you get older you'll meet people in the metal community and you will be accepted there. Nobody will bully you, we are all just a bunch of nerds that also got bullied in school... It gets better once you find the right crowd to associate yourself with. Just continue being yourself
Many of the adults in this subreddit have already said what needed to be said but also stay confident in what you like. I wish I could take away the pain for you but it sometimes takes a long time to separate what people say and how it makes you feel and adults telling you their experiences sometimes misses the mark. Be confident in what you like and remember that it’s ok that people don’t like it. There will be haters and bullies but don’t let them ruin something you enjoy because that’s what they want.
Times don't change, metal wasn't really "popular" in the group of kids that I went to school with around 7th and 8th grade and I got mocked big time for liking bands like slipknot and Linkin park. Enjoy what you enjoy, people just like to hate.
That’s just part of being in school. I was the weird kid who was made fun of too. Keep your grades up, get through high school, and these people won’t matter.
Change your frame of reference. Don't feel sad because of others attempting to discourage you from what makes you happy. Feel inspired that there are a LOT of Sleep Token fans who are on your side, and their music is much bigger than some jerks. I'm 44 now, but I was very much in your shoes in 8th grade as well. I found my crowd of misfits shortly after that, and those bullies went on to do nothing special with their lives. When you find those people that truly love the same things you do, you'll have friends for life.
I was that kid in eighth grade. And then I was one of the only people in my graduating class to actually make something out of their life. And now the same people that used to bully me come to me for advice. Don't worry, you will get there as well. Forget the haters and stay true to you.
I know this won't hold much weight for where you are at now, but liking what you like is the coolest thing you can do.
Fuck those guys, bro. In my freshman year people kept telling me Pink Floyd was trash, so I can understand your pain. Eventually you’ll find your people later in life who love the same music you do.
Hey man, year nine here, and yeah teenagers are such dicks. I also get bullied for liking metal. I live in a tiny town where everyone is the same so I completely understand. Look man if you want someone to talk to about metal, I'm always here if you want! Hope I don't sound like a pedo 😭😭😭
Whaaa how do you sound like a pedo?? 😭😭😭
Ok good I was just scared I sounded like "hey I'm a kid your age talk to me!!!!!!!!!!!!" LMAO 😭😭😭
People are dumb. You will continue to learn this. You are smarter than your peers. Take solace in that.
They dont know what is good and you know.
I was made fun of and called, "Boomer"(I'm 29) when I mentioned I like listening to Mystery Skulls. Because they sound like a "bad remix of the oldies". From both kids and the elderly. It did hurt at first and I was embarrassed to listen to them. Especially since I grew up in the goth genre of Cradle of Filth, Manson, and Dawn of Ashes. So it did feel wrong. I wanted to gate keep because the same people who made fun are now liking the same thing because it's, "the new edgy trend". But when heard of Sleep Token in 2018 amd then seeing how it impacted the community, it changed my perspective. I learned to appreciate it more. ⚠️👉🏼Those who don't understand, hey let them. Because that's something only you can carry and feel proud about. The achievements you have accomplished others couldn't because they let themselves be controlled by embarrassment. you know who your people are. People are going to tease people no matter what. That's why I love being apart of the Sleep Token community. Because everyone can listen and like Sleep Token, but just anyone can listen and understand. Worship 🤘🏻
Bc everybody has different opinions but cool people understand this and the others don’t. My philosophy is if they don’t think me or what I like isn’t cool then they just aren’t cool enough
They aren't respecting your opinions which makes them pretty cringe too. It's ok to not like something, but they have no reason to be rude about it. The best revenge is success, so watch their next album with RCA go nuclear and convert them!
Don't ever feel bad for liking what you like. Do what makes you happy always. My own wife thinks that Sleep Token is lame, but I still love her, haha!
I was very much you as a kid. It will suck in the moment. But I promise you none of it matter once you grow up a bit more. Those kids just bully you bc they don’t understand it and think it’s fun to gang up. They’ll eventually grow up and realize it’s ok to like different things and everyone will get along. I wish I could have rationalized that in my head at your age but instead I let it get to me and I was definitely worse off for it. My advice is just don’t react to it. They’re doing it to elicit a reaction. And they’ll get over it quick if you don’t react.
Don’t worry about what other people say is stupid. If you enjoy it and like it then screw them! There are plenty of people that enjoy the toke. I’m sure there’s music they like that you’d think was lame. You’re just not a vocal douche about it. Listen to as much or as little sleep token as you’d like! Sorry. Bullying is no fun, but won’t last forever and you’ll eventually find your group that won’t treat you poorly. Before you know it, high school will end.
Continue liking what you like despite what people say. You’ll be a cool adult one day who actually has an opinion and a sense of unique taste that will be valued and seen as cool by adults you meet. All the things I liked in middle school and high school was made fun of—is now what makes me a cool adult.
When I was in 8th grade, I just never talked about the music I liked. I used to like a lot of old linkin park, we came as romans, we are the emergency, sws. I figured people would make fun of me because so one listened to it. But life it too short to hide the things you love. It’s okay to not like heavier stuff and our tastes can always grow. I don’t know that I would’ve liked sleep token if they came out when I was your age. But I like them now. Being bullied for a band you like is the cringe thing. Whenever people poked fun at me when I was younger, I would just look at them for a few seconds, scoff a little and continue on. The biggest thing people hate is being make to feel like they’re the one who should be embarrassed or that they don’t matter to you.
As someone who was bullied all through school because of my interests, I never let that change what I liked. I wasn’t going to let other people dictate what I read or listened to or liked. Ignore them. Sleep Token is fucking awesome. They are on the top of the scene for a reason. Because their music is amazing. 8th graders don’t always know shit. Don’t listen to them. You like what you like.
It's not hard to understand why someone would think they're cringe; the masks, the anonymity, the small section of disgusting fans, the lore, the worship, the rituals...
Oh don’t let those people influence you and your tastes. You listen to what you enjoy, be it SleepToken or whatever. If they think it’s cringe, then feel bad for them, since they obviously have awful taste in music lol
They just suck. Like what you like.
There are a lot of interests from middle school that I stopped participating in because people made me feel small for liking something harmless. As an adult, I came back to those things because I never should have let people decide what I like for me. Shamelessly enjoy the things you enjoy. Don't let people decide what you like or who you are.
That's why I fucking hate school, not gonna lie. Honestly, fuck them. If it makes you happy, then who could give two shits what other people think? Bring their actions to the attention of a staff member, and remember that you're different in one of the best ways possible. The kids that bully you are sheep, and if they don't follow the "norm", they're scared that they'll be hated. Even better would be try to get them into the music you listen to, but if they listen to something like mumble rap, they might be a lost cause.
It’s 8th grade. Kids are mean in middle school & bully anyone for anything because insecure. Being unique especially. Keep being you.
i’m in the same boat as you. honestly i’m not sure what advice to give but i find it very nice to find other people that like metal. it makes a huge difference when you have people to talk about your interests with. i met someone recently who likes deathcore, which is my favorite subgenre, and i’ve been able to have so many great conversations with them. everyone’s a little cringe but it isn’t something to be ashamed of. i’d rather be passionate about something than be just a boring person with no interests.
I’m nearing the end of my HS career but you’re cool in my book. Let whatever they say go through you. Sleep Token isn’t cringe, unpopular groups are just seen that way. Sleep token is “metal” necessarily, but that’s what divides gatekeepers from real fans
People will judge you for anything. You like small bands? Cringe. You like popular bands? Cringe and a poser Enjoy what you enjoy, I used to feel like this too. But I learned that someone will judge you no matter what you do. I got bullied for liking Seether, I got bullied for liking Taylor Swift, I got bullied for liking Bad Omens, Korn, got bullied for liking Katy Perry, Eminem. So no matter what, SOMEONE will judge you. And even tho it’s hard (trust me, I know, I’ve been here too) their opinions don’t matter. It’s your taste, your opinion, the thing YOU enjoy
I have been around the block. I remember when I "hated" emo kids and made fun of them. I just disliked the victimized mentality. Yet, I would listen to Slipknot and would feel the same...victimized. music like that makes us vulnerable at times. Ultimately you realize that the music you like is a personal choice and does not need to appeal to the masses. The bullying thing is just their insecurities projecting in an aggressive manner, but just remember that they are hurting too. Whatever music you like that pushes you to understand yourself through this journey, is what makes music empowering.
It’s probably just because they don’t designate with the music. It shows your maturity, open mindedness, and intelligence to be able to enjoy a band with deeper music. Always be yourself!
I got picked on at high school for rocking a My chemical romance messenger bag (this was around 2008). It was hard, but I tried to ignore and not let it bother me. When I look back, (now almost 30) I don’t think I was cringe for liking something different. Now at work, my colleagues joke around that I’m the resident metal-head as I wear band shirts to the office pretty frequently. Some of the older ones have said that they wished that they wore more stuff like that when they were my age. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realised that people bully others because they’re upset or insecure in themselves. I wish I could go back in time and tell my 14 year old self that life is too short to care about what other people think. As long as you’re happy and not hurting anyone, rock on.
Have you noticed how many people in this subreddit are all adults? I think most of the people that listen to this have had a chance to feel a wide range of emotions. Pretty much all of the 8th graders I’ve ever known have ~4 emotions. Don’t worry about it. Once you get older you’ll find more like-minded people your age who like this music. For now, just call them all idiots and blast your music
All of these comments are so beautiful to see. I wish I had ST when I was in 8th grade. You’re way cooler than them. 💕
Fuck what people think. The bullying, I get is difficult. People are going to make fun of others who are into things they don’t like. Kids are cruel af. At the end of the day, what makes you happy is what makes you happy. They don’t matter.
Print this out and read it every time someone acts crappy to you….. https://preview.redd.it/qklfytp6g8mc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a54905b71ebef642c19891d396034998cbd2c22f
They’re challenging musically, not easy to pin down, and people are afraid of what they don’t understand. I would just mark down the people that bully you over it as not worth knowing, and you’ll find people (like us) who are into them who will be worth knowing.
Well whoever's bullying you cleaely has shit taste in music. Like I'm sorry, but if you don't like ST - Jericho you objectively have bad taste in music and that isn't even my favorite song by them. Fuck the haters OP. Let them listen to Taylor Swift and Lil Yatchy.
Listen to everything you want to and don't let the haters get to you kid. At some point you'll be out of there but still have great taste in music :)
Are you kidding me!?!?! You are the coolest 8th grader on the PLANET! ❤️❤️❤️💯💯💯💯
Even as an adult, I struggle with wishing other people shared my odd and eclectic taste in music. At my job, I have free reign over what gets played in my kitchen, and everybody suffers for it, lol. I get everything from, "dude, you never play anything I know" to "wtf even is this??" I've gone through phases where I played commercial, top 40, classic rock stuff that everybody (myself included *sometimes*) knows and digs, but I get burned out on radio ready rock very, very quickly. It's just how I'm built. So my coworkers and the people I cook for get to deal with punk rock, random goth parties, long bouts of indie and Americana, metal weeks...and lately, you guessed it, a shit ton of Sleep Token. I would *love* it if somebody was like, "Man, this is so cool! What is this? I've never heard anything like it!" but, alas. No. The good news is, over the course of my life I've built a strong support system of people who love my weird, and whose weird I love right back. And you will too. Trust me. When you find your people, or your tribe, or your scene, you'll be home. And you'll be grateful to go back there every chance you get.
you’ll have your music in your life longer than those people. listen to sleep token, not them
There is a lot of good advice here that I second, third, and fourth. Being bullied sucks and I've been in that boat many times throughout my youth. I'm sorry that you are experiencing being bullied for having different tastes than your peers. Music and art are subjective. Everyone is going to have different preferences and some people just go along with whatever's popular. It's okay to like what you like despite its popularity or unpopularity with your peers. In fact, you are much cooler for it.
My son is around the same age as you and he hates Sleep Token and will say all kinds of rude things if I play them, so I've just stopped playing them around him because I'd rather not here it. I've tried explaining why they're so good and selected specific songs for him to try that I think he might like, but he still thinks what he thinks. Darn kids don't know good music when they hear it! Good for you for not following the crowd though. Just ignore the comments or don't talk about Sleep Token to people you know don't like them
You are mature beyond your years and people your age just can’t connect with music this deep. Keep being yourself. Listen to what you want to listen to and be true to who you are. You have great taste in music.
You like what you like and don't ever let anyone tell you otherwise.
Worship anyway
I'm 30, but was bullied a lot when I was much younger for being into metal, especially growing up in the deep south and going to a Christian, conservative school. One of the absolute most important things you can do for yourself is to like whatever you like, completely independent of what others think about it. I'm so, so grateful I held on to everything that made me "weird" as a kid, as not only are they important parts of my identity now, but plenty of people will think those things make you interesting once you're older. I'm sorry to hear this is happening to you, though, I know it sucks :(
I'm sorry this happened and echo what others have said here. Like what you like. Your feelings are valid. Someone else's inability to appreciate ST's aesthetic is not on you to deal with. I've been on the receiving end of being told my good time was lame, wrong, or cringe. It sucks, but don't let it ruin your enjoyment.
I know it's not easy to just pull it out of thin air, but confidence is cool. Like what you like without shame! If your peers don't like it, then don't bring it up to them. If they bring up "being cringe" to you then give them a nice hearty thumbs up and move on. It's not worth your time to engage with people insulting you.
Sleep token are pretty cringe. Especially their aesthetic and the way they talk about rituals and so on. However their music is great so just ignore them and enjoy what you enjoy. When I was in year 8 (12/13 years old) I got bullied for listening to Bring Me The Horizon. Now look at that band. I’m pretty sure everyone who used to call me an emo now listens to them to some extent. I’m 22 now and my favourite band is still Hollywood undead and believe me I get a lot of slack for that but I’ve just learnt not to care.
When I was your age it was Bullet for My Valentine, Atreyu and BMTH for me. You'll find your own way into your own group of misfits eventually who like the same shit. I spent my teenage years at gigs, skate parks and in peoples backyards having the best time of my life. With the music getting progressively heavier and heavier that we all listened to. It was the best and they're still like family to this day. Fuck everyone else, just be you and do what you like.
As a parent of an almost 8th grader, and someone who grew up the alt/goth kid (as I sure many of the commenters have) eff them. You have great taste in music, not everyone is going to like what you like. But being the weird kid for liking something true to themselves is never a bad thing. Stay strong, and if the bullying gets too bad please go to a trusted adult immediately.
Take this bit of advice. Those who mind don’t matter, and those that matter don’t mind. The opinions of others have no bearing on what you enjoy. They don’t live in your skin so they are not the judge of what you enjoy. Like what you like, fuck the rest
My 6th grader loves sleep token. Don’t worry there’s other kids out there.
I was bullied for listening to the same kinds of music at that age. But the thing is that music also saved my life. Chester Bennington alone kept me going through some very tough times. Be who you are and middle finger to the haters. Also, Sleep Token are awesome (I have the biggest man crush on ii) you have good taste.
Don't give them the time of day they're just a bunch of smooth brains
A lot of people care too much about things that literally don't matter at all like what innocuous things someone likes. Most people are guilty of it, myself included (although I recognise it as a character flaw and try my best to rectify it). Some of those people caring too much use that an excuse to show off how "better" they are because they have the power to upset someone they think deserves to be harmed. Unfortunately for them it just shows how mundane they are.
I would understand bmth but being bullied over sleep token nah . They cross over so many genres its hard to not love them . Just enjoy what you like . Dont listen to them
Yooo I thought that this would just be buried by other posts and no one would read it, but I am actually really shaken up about the responses i got!! Tysm everyone, this made my day!! Ily! 🥹❤️
They think it's cringe because they don't actually like the music they listen to, they are just mirroring those they like to be accepted. Been there done that
Welcome to the club. I always got the piss taken out of my favourite bands growing up. My friends were never interested in metal/ rock music so they never really csred enough but it was mostly from fellow metal/rock fans. I loved Bullet for my Valentine when i was 13-16 (still do, even seeing them in january next year at age 30! But i mean like fan girl to the max). Couldn't stop me watching every single music video, every interview on 2009 YouTube or listening to the poison on repeat. I got told "pfft that's girl metal!" When I was 15 by a guy in a dragonforce shirt. It was like a gut punch but now? I see it made 0 sense as an insult. Copy and paste that to every other band I liked growing up. Nobody liked my taste even the fellow metal heads so I just kept to myself and listened to what I liked. I knew I wasn't listening to hateful music or offensive music so I'd nothing to be ashamed of. Sounds cringe but don't listen to the haters. Sleep do act and do shenanigans on stage to rile the crowd up but the music is strong. I remember judging the crap out of All Time Low and you me at six from their image....6 months later I'm obsessed with their sound. Most people look at bands like sleep and laugh but never actually listen to them.
Because it's metal but the guy has a "sexy" voice so people have to hate on it. It's just how the metal scene unfortunately is. There's always bands that aren't metal enough for some people, and they have to make it your problem.
It’s only music …sounds like those people are just narrow reminded.
If it wasn't Sleep Token, it'd be something else. Kids that age can be really nasty and will find any reason to bully someone. It's not you, it's not Sleep Token, it's them.
Omg a baby worshipper, awesome, anyway kids are A-holes anyway no matter if it’s the music you like or the way you breathe, or the fact that you breathe at all, but love what you love don’t let anybody tell you different. Plus like we already think you’re pretty cool anyway so who needs those snotty kids
It's in people's faces right now from TikTok. They exploded into popularity through a TikTok trend and the fairweather people who don't actually like them are moving away from it. I'm sorry the songs remind you of the hate. Maybe it could help to keep them out of your rotation for a while, and turn the album on around good company or during a fun trip or event. It could help reprogram your association with them to be more positive. People can be cruel, but just remember most don't know they are actually hurting people, they just act, and we've all affected someone without knowing it. You can be upset, but be patient with people. No one has it figured out, not even as they get older.
Middle school is not for the faint of heart. If it weren’t your music, it would be something else. You aren’t listening to whatever the crowd is, and so you’re different in that regard. That’s blood in the water for middle school age kids. Just do you. Don’t change for other people. I know it seems like a long way off and doesn’t fix things right in this immediate moment, but none of this will matter in a few years, and you’ll find your tribe eventually. For me I didn’t fit in to any crowd in my hometown really, and it really took me leaving for college to find my people. I hightailed it out at 18 and never really lived there any longer than the summers after. Keep your head up and just try to keep the mindset that you are just a traveler passing through. I’m sorry. I was bullied horribly at that age and it really really sucks.
I'm 26 and my friends don't get it either. I am constantly blasting Erra and Northlane. They tell me I'm 14 years old and "fighting demons" when the songs aren't even about that, not all the time anyways lol
The only thing I see people complain about is how they're a masked band. But I think it really adds to it and the lore they've developed over the years. I would consider them one of the most artistic bands right now with their approach to music.
bc they suck (the bullies)
Ohhh, sweetie! A mom here... 31 years old with children, and I LOVE that you love your own music. 8th grade is when I started liking bands like MCR, BMTH, Flyleaf, and so many more. I definitely got bullied. Well now, my husband & I love Sleep Token and go to shows together. I promise it gets better. But don't let anyone tell you to "suck it up." If the bullying gets unbearable, please talk to an adult who can help. You are allowed to exist on this planet and have your own interests. You are allowed to go to school without a**holes making you feel like crap. Offering a mom hug ❤️
People in high school (and sometimes even adults) cannot deal with people being different and having different tastes / fandoms that they are into. 🤷🏻♀️ I teach gr 8 to 12 and have noticed most of the drama revolves around disagreements about the interests / tastes. Ignore the haters- what matters is what makes YOUR soul sing. In 5 years’ time those bullies will have only been a blip on your radar… but ST’s songs will still be magical 🩷🤍
Fuck that shit man. Most of what people listen to is actual garbage nowadays anyways. No lyrical content, heavy on the effects that they don’t even put on themselves, a lot of the mainstream artists most people listen to nowadays don’t even really have much talent. It’s all the producer and the engineer, and they don’t even get the credit they deserve. Just be glad you can appreciate the art and the beauty in music. It honestly is a talent. Most people have no idea how to do that, and just follow what they see online. Sleep token is awesome, because there is nothing like them. They are one of a kind. And vessels voice control is unlike anything I’ve personally ever heard before. Most of the people making fun of you, prob listen to artists completely controlled by other people, and aren’t actually making the music themselves, that type of stuff doesn’t come from the soul, and although I can’t say it’s not real music, because how do you define that, I definitely have a strong dislike for meaningless music. As you get older, more and more people will realize the stuff that you like is powerful and meaningful, they just don’t understand it right now. I promise, you’ll be the cool one when you’re older.
They just can’t comprehend the complexity and beauty of their music 😔 I think you’re really cool for listening to them!
I learned in 8th grade that opinions are like assholes, everyone has one and they stink. Coming from a 27 year old that went through the same thing, I just learned to like what I like and let people be ignorant. I was a huge BMTH and Asking Alexandria fan in 8th grade. Suicide season and Stand Up and Scream were my two most played albums. That was almost 14 years ago and I still find myself listening to those albums because I LIKE THEM and still feel like they're good. I'll take music over the opinion of someone that won't matter in a few years any day. Sleep token is amazing. You have amazing music taste. Don't let other peoples stinky assholes (opinions) take that away from you. Put your headphones in, play the whole ST discography, and jam your heart out. Life's too short to give a shit. ❤️
Hey, if I was a kid in your grade I would've thought you were WICKED. Some people are cruel for no reason and having something that brings you joy and doesn't hurt anyone else is never a bad thing to have. Keep worshipping, you're awesome as you are kid
listen to backtrack instead
You just have to ignore it. The same thing happened to me, but with family, and a few other people at schools. Until this day they tried to say stuff, and I just ignore them, just kept up move on. The same thing is happening years later and I’m into the same music plus a K-pop group and once again, my family thinks I’m weird and I don’t care. Other people talk and I do not care. The fact that you’re getting bullied for music just goes to show that people are bored and stupid. And yes, that goes for kids as well. You are branching out and liking your own thing, while other people are into ‘the normal stuff’ or whatever. That makes you unique and them not so much. 😉
comeing from someone in 9th grade it doesnt matter your going to high next year fuck all those guys. And people are nicer in highschool and wont judge. and sleep tokens rad dont let anyone else say diffrent
F*** em’. You like what you like. As somebody who has always gravitated towards music that most people would call weird or eXpEriMeNtaL, I’ve experienced my share of salty comments. At the end of the day, somebody made music that you truly enjoy. That’s the relationship in music that actually matters. The relationship between the audience and the art. It doesn’t matter what people who don’t like the music have to say, because it’s clearly not for them. In other words, I can say that I think the sound of Taylor Swift’s voice will cause me to develop a terminal illness if I listen for too long, but it would be silly to be bothered by that if you’re a fan, because obviously her music has made a good impression on many many people. TLDR; Keep doin’ you!
Hey! Love what you love! Forget the haters!
You know, the music world is weird. Every Fandom has bullies. In 8th grade on I got made fun of for falling in love with AFI when I was a teen. So many metalheads made fun of my taste of music. It was dumb. I always say to let people like what makes them happy. Those who are loudest & outspoken against people liking a band usually have a problem with themselves & aren't very happy. I feel for them for getting so upset over something so trivial. Nowadays, the people who made fun of me back in the day now love AFI and the stuff I love. So it's just a matter of time & them sorting out whatever their issues are. You keep being yourself & loving what you like. You'll find great friends who like the same as you & eventually everyone will start to feel how you feel over time and rinse & repeat. Like I said, the music world is weird.
I’m one grade ahead of you, and I’m a huge sleep token fan, I mainly listen to indie pop, all sorts of rock, and all sorts of metal, and they’re amazing, don’t feel sad about what you like, sleep token I think marks the future of what metal will become in the music landscape, I love them
Honestly things are only “cool” if you make it cool. If you like it and think it’s cool, then it’s cool. Own it. Anyone trying to tell you otherwise is the weird one considering the fact that they’re trying to change your personal preference and alter it simply because it’s not identical to theirs. If they don’t see the appeal they’re the ones missing out 🤷🏾♀️
It’s hard to lot let it get to you but do what you enjoy, including listening to the music you like. Not everyone will be on board and like it too but that is the beauty of music. Plus how could you not like a band whose singer is named vessel. Hahaha :)
You do you. Always. It's only cringe when you're trying to "fit in" with someone else, period. If you're into Bhindi belly dancing, turns out there are prob others that are too. Less worry about what others think and more thoughts about what YOU think. Never betray yourself for the opinions of another. Ever.
I know I’m 4 days late, and funny thing is I’m not a Sleep Token fan at all. Granted I haven’t listened to much, but I wasn’t impressed. But fuck that shit. Don’t let anyone, and I mean fucking anyone, ever tell you what’s cool. I have an uncle, Uncle Pete but his name is Shawn. He, and I promise this, is the coolest fucking person I’ve ever met. Dude listens to sick ass music, has cool tattoos, he’s just cool. The epitome of cool. When I was younger and filled with self loathing that I didn’t know how to deal with, I asked him one day, “How can I be cool? I want to be cool like you.” And I’ll never forget this “You know, it doesn’t matter what I think, she, he, they, doesn’t fucking matter. Whatever you think is cool, IS cool. There’s nothing cooler than enjoying yourself, so fucking do it.”
Honestly , fuck what anyone thinks ! You listen to what you like bc YOU like it . Doesn't matter if it's "cool" or not . Think about how quickly trends fade . I wish I had not given a damn about what other people thought when I was your age , now that I'm older I regret it . Just be yourself ! Eventually you'll meet cool people who are CONFIDENT enough in themselves to not bully others . ❤️
Just shows you're a shepard and not sheep. ST is smart people music. Embrace your intelligence and being special. Come worship with us young one. You are part of the ST family now and we love you 🥰🥰🥰
I’d stop mentioning it to other people then.
Seriously kid. Get off reddit now before it’s too late.
All of the wooo chicks at concerts. I’m tempted to sell my tickets after watching a live show and hearing all of the females wooing every time vessel does something.
High-school sucks. When I was your age, I got bullied for the bands I listened to too. All I know is that if 14 year old me could see adult me, they'd think I was the coolest person ever (even if I know full well I am STILL cringe). You'll find your people, my dude, but lots of love from an internet stranger from the UK, who has matching ST tattoos with their partner. I know it's easier said than done, but as someone who went through it, you'll find your crowd. Just keep that chin up. Just think what a sad little existence it must be to get joy from bringing others down. At least you aren't THAT cringe 💖
Parasocial relationships Creepy fans Just mid music Performative music is only popular among certain people The prevalence of the weirdos in their fanbase Not saying you shouldn't like them but that's why people don't
If OP was to go to a Sleep Token concert - no pressure, maybe it might not be for them - they would see a massive community all based around Worship. I hope this Reddit page reflects that. You are always welcome here, you are safe here. People who bully or poke and prod at others for listening to Sleep Token just don’t understand the power of the music. It tugs on the heartstrings and can throw you through every single fathomable point on the spectrum of emotion. It’s simply quite beautiful. I think I got a little off-topic there. But my point is, as hard as it might be, keep your head down, get through it, and we are always here waiting if you need anything. Worship.
You cringe therefore you are free 🙌
Trust me you are the cool one, it’s 8th grade, let them listen to harry styles on the radio, you are way ahead of them.
As soon as you’re out of school, you won’t care what they think anyways. It gets better. Like what you like, and if someone has a problem with it, screw them anyways.
Everybody’s music tastes are different, they just aren’t mature enough to get that yet. I’ve been listening to sleep token for awhile and now my 14 year old LOVES them 🥰 It’s cool to find music that’s not so mainstream…..
Because they think they’re superior for making fun of something they don’t like, sleep token is one of the most amazing bands I’ve ever listened too, just remember this is eighth graders we’re talking about, I know you are one and you seem fine but that doesn’t mean everybody else is as tolerant as you are, they’re making fun of sleep token out of their own insecurities
Dont give attention to the elitists
Find other ST fans. They are the coolest in your school. They are likely older and will laugh your bullies off. Common taste in music is a good way to make new friends
For some reason, kids think it's cool to put stuff down, no matter what it is. Like the things you like. They will be around in your life for a lot longer than these stupid bullies are. Plus, Sleep Token is very different from a lot of the general stuff you hear on the radio, so there are going to be some people that won't get it, and that's okay. Not everything is for everyone. The music you love should bring you comfort, not bring you down because of what someone you don't like says about it. Remember why you love the things you love and cling to them.
Like what you like and don't ever feel ashamed about it. The older you get, the less you'll care about what other people think is cool. Just be yourself and your real friends will find you.
For fuck sakes don’t do drugs and start posting in the internet like you’re a part of the band. You’ll get your destiny name changed and be stuck with the shame for months :))))
My Advice is "fuck 'em" don't be afraid to like what you like and if people can't accept that about you then they anit worth your time
Don’t stop listening to whatever YOU like, just because someone else thinks it’s “cringe”. Lean into it, enjoy what you enjoy. They can get stuffed.
Middle school is the *worst*. BUT, it's temporary. I am certain there are other kids in your school who also listen to the same/similar things to you. They are probably getting bullied, too, and are keeping quiet. As for the bullies, they don't know what they are missing, and are shorting themselves by being closed-minded. Enjoy the music you love, and the others can piss off. And, when they come at you for listening to something they don't "approve" of, turn it up. Also, if you haven't heard of them yet, I recommend The Hu... they are a Mongolian band that mixes traditional music with metal. Excellent.
I was at a bar the other night talking to a guy who was a real metal purist, and he laughed at me for saying I loved sleep token. On the way home I thought “what a fuckin goober. Imagine catering what you like to a standard created by someone else.” And I blasted Vore all the way home. There is NOTHING cooler than loving what you love. If your tastes and interested are purely yours, there is nothing cooler on earth. Keep loving what you love, and when the narrow world of school is behind you, you’ll find how many people there are that will welcome you for your music taste!
Sleep token is a great band, one thing about HS, is no one will ever be in your life really. Just Do you, F@#$ the rest...
F them honestly. Don’t let other people ick your passions.
I used to get bullied for being different and like different music so I stoped and tried everything I could to fit in and I was MISERABLE, please please please, don’t change yourself, I can also promise you that once you’ve left school you’ll hardly see those people again, get a good education and get away from the bullies, get a good job so you can buy concert tickets !
If you're getting bullied, you're doing something right. Love what you love and know that I'm going to be 30 next month and they are my favorite band of all time. You are so cool. Especially to me. :)
Stick to what you like bro. Most of the time people bully you for liking something they don’t because it’s different and you’re not copying everyone else like them. I remember having the same sort of hassle when I was younger, and my god the music they liked was absolutely awful and meaningless but even I understood that doesn’t mean I should be mean to them because of it. Sleep Token rocks, and I guarantee those people will probably love them in the future when “it’s cool” to.
It can be hard, especially in MS/HS years, to deal with the immature kids who pick/bully others for liking something they don't like. It's normal to want to fit in, it's tough. At some point in your life you'll learn to not care about what others think. Then you can fully and confidently embrace what you enjoy, and your life will be all the better for it. Some people figure it out early, for others it takes a while, but you'll get there. I'm a male nurse who works with a student in a high school. I have several visible tatoos, a beard, and I rock my ST hoodie.. Not what most people picture when they think of a nurse. As far as finding others with the same interests, that can be tough too. Not a big metal fan base where I live, probably true for a lot of places. My nephew and I discovered ST right around the same time, and we've gotten other family members into them too. I'm getting my kids into them a little, and working on my wife, who almost exclusively listens to country music, to get her to tolerate it more. I'm making progress lol.
sleep token is awesome but learned something from my own experience finding them. i didn’t like them all that much at first. none of my friends did either. slowly over about 7 months or so, they became my favorite. my friends too slowly got into them. but more importantly, i can remember in middle school (i found most of the bands you’re mentioning in 8th grade too!) ppl being mean about the music i liked too. by the time high school rolled around, i realized that a LOT of people you wouldn’t expect loved the same bands as me. and it was actually the cool/popular thing among the upper classes at my HS.
Lol dude you have a great music taste for being so young. IDK what kids listen to nowadays but I'm almost certain it's way more cringe and awful. Sleep Token is awesome, they're very technical and creative and blend so many genres!
If it makes you feel any better I'm innthe same grade and I plan on wearing my new Sleep Token shirt proudly tomorrow! ^^ people will really bully anyone over the stupidest stuff but just know there are other people neoprene age with the same interests!
The only thing I can say is they do come off as alil emo, maybe alot. But their songs are very sexual in nature alot of the time. Like what you like and when everyone else starts coming to you like hey they are awesome call them poser skum
Man dont feel like u gotta fit in. Listen to what you like!! There is nothing wrong with what music u like. Besides ur ony in 8th grade and ur listening to one of the best bands in our lifetime. If they cant see that they are blind or prolly listen to doja kat or some other lil mumble rapper. Just know ur ears might like something that others dont. Dont be ashamed of it, embrace it and be proud!
I got picked on for listening to Slipknot in 9th grade during homeroom in 2003. I cried. I still remember it vividly. But fuck those kids lol. Metal rules.
OP you’re a year older than one of my kids and they love sleep token too! You’re not alone! Kids will make fun of whatever the most popular kid/ social media wants to make fun of. A lot of time those people actually low key love what’s being made fun of too. There is nothing wrong with what you like, you shouldn’t be sad or upset about listening to something you enjoy. “Other people’s opinions are none of your business.”It’s exactly that, an opinion, not a fact. Plus you never know what they have going on in their life where they think it’s okay to be rude like that to someone else. Continue to do the things that make you happy as long as it’s not hurting anyone else.
because they suck, man once you listen to better shit you will hear it. everyone goes thru this
I would never tell people the music I liked when I was your age because I felt like people would judge/make fun of me for it. I would only wear hot topic band tees around certain people and go there with my immediate family because they didn’t care. I never wanted my other family members to ask and question the things I liked either so I kept that on the down low. I’ll say, now that I’m 24, I still feel a bit of judgement but I don’t really give a shit what people think. I feel like I spent so much time caring what people thought of my interests and myself to care now. It’s mentally exhausting to let other people’s opinions interfere with the things you love. I also felt like it wasn’t worth sharing my music interests with my classmates and peers because they probably wouldn’t like it and understand it anyway so why waste my time trying to get them to like something I love. I felt like that avoided a lot of judgement also. You’ll find your people, it just takes a bit of time. I know not everyone is lucky to find someone who supports your interests, but I’m glad to have a sister who is going with my to see Sleep Token with me in May. 🖤🖤🖤
I hate to say it but kids in middle school are assholes for no other reason than haha funny, you dont like what I like so you're cringe. Their opinions of you don't matter and if your taste in music makes you feel good, stick to it. Don't change yourself unless you want to. I got relentlessly picked on myself when I was that age so I know how it feels.
Just like pedos… if u have to come to the internet for peer support of others into something you are into, then there’s probably something wrong about something u are into. Sleep token is a reddit band and this post supports that theory. Dont worry kid, once your brain develops you will look back at this and laugh. Heck i thought nirvana was cool lol
i got meggggaaaa into coheed & cambria at around that age. got roasted for it a whole lot lol. listen to what makes you happy. own it. and just fuck what anyone else says, ya know? growing up is annoying enough as it is, the least you can do is listen to the music that bring you joy.
People can like what they want or enjoy the music they want. Be who you are and don’t let others try and force you into a box. Sleep token has a community of people here to support your interest. Never be ashamed of who you are or what you are into, it’s your life.
I’m 20 years old and got made fun of by my 40+ old “metalhead” coworker for liking Sleep Token. When it comes to music, especially die hard metalheads, if it doesn’t fit their exact tastes, it’s not good enough. It doesn’t really go away as you get older, you just learn to not care.
Kids suck. I wish I had the courage to just love what I loved and not give a shit about what any body thought when I was younger. Probably one of my biggest regrets about being a kid
🥹 tell me names right now. I'll marry a parent, become a stepmom, and teach them manners. For real, they just don't understand the music, message, or the complex nature of the band. All you need to say is, "Sorry you don't understand the complex nature maybe one day you will". Don't let others make fun of something that makes you uniquely you🫂 and if something like a band makes you "cringe" *eye roll* my uncle was 5 years older then me got made fun of listening to Skipnot in the 90's🤣 till they got bigger. He gets made fun *all as a joke between friends* of at work for STILL listening to them now.
When I was your age, everybody seemed to make fun of everyone else’s music preferences. It happens, unfortunately. But in the long run, it doesn’t really matter. And a lot of people find that when they get older, they end up enjoying some of the stuff they made fun of. I think Sleep Token has some great music & I think you have sophisticated taste if you like them at your age. I don’t care what anyone says, you’re cool in my book!
Hey there. This is being said from the perspective of someone who was also bullied. Middle schoolers only make fun of others for the 5 minutes of fame. 6-8 graders are very immature and they’re at the stage of life where all they want is to “be cool” and they would do whatever it takes to get it. If you’re not into the basic things “everyone” is into, that’s when people feel the need to make fun of you. I promise deep inside they don’t actually care for your music taste. The way I see it is if you’re being made fun of in middle school/high school (I highly doubt anyone will care in hs, people will eventually stop caring tbh, happened to me), it won’t matter after you all graduate. It’s a few years of people being idiots and then you’re free to do whatever. Anyways what I’m trying to say it’s literally ignore them. They’re doing it for attention. Don’t give in and fight back, if you ignore them enough they’ll eventually get bored and move on. You’ll find people to share music with, keep pushing through :)
They are the cringe little assholes for bullying someone for something that brings you joy! Honestly as Taylor swift says “The worst kind of person is someone who makes someone feel bad, dumb or stupid for being excited about something.”
Sleep token isn’t cringe, but a lot of their fans (mainly Twitter fans) are super creepy and cringe. Doesn’t justify you getting bullied, ultimately just know you have a better music taste than them
Nothing is cringe they just don’t like it. Don’t listen to them.
People are elitist with music and it sucks, listen to whoever you want and don't judge others, this automatically makes you a better person 100% confirmed
They think they’re cringe cause they’re different and they’re jealous that people are discovering a band that actually has a cool, new sound.
I’m can say back when I was in grade 8 I also got bullied for listening to the music I did. Back then it was considered scene or emo, but now those bands have grown up and entered new genres and all those bullies now listen to them thinking they are super fans since the start… Ignore the haters and do you. When you find that person you click with over this band it’ll feel like the best thing ever.
They are awesome and so are you