Goth
Gothic culture is nothing new. In fact what we call Goth actually began with a writing style from the 18th and early 19th centuries (think novels like Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Dracula--grotesque and full of mystery and an overall morbid sense). People who call themselves gothic today (usually in their teens or early 20's though they can be any age) put those characteristics into everyday use.

Goths are expected to wear black, dye their hair and wear white makeup. It's pretty common for people with this style to show a strong interest in dark subject matter such as the supernatural and death. In fact, a favorite hangout of Goths is the cemetery, whether it's just to chill or enjoy a nice afternoon picnic. Spider webs, skulls/skeletons and coffins are popular emblems throughout Goth culture.

This isn't to say that everyone dressed in black shares these interests. There are many people who enjoy the Gothic aesthetic but don't practice other parts of the culture.

You definitely can't judge a Goth by his or her appearance.

Gangsta Rap
As the name suggests, gangsta rap is a musical style that relates to gangs. A subgenre of rap, gangsta rap deals specifically with gang culture and the lifestyle of gang members. One of the things gangs are known for is fighting and dying. Or, as the lyrics would read, fightin' and dyin'.

Gaining popularity in the mid to late '80s, gangsta rap deals with street life, taking on the subjects of pimpin' and hustlin' in addition to other aspects of gang living. The attitudes and ideas asserted in these songs objectify women and glorify gang violence, including murder. According to gangsta rap the threat of dying is not as important as getting even.

Gangsta rappers include familiar names like Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and DMX. But perhaps the most controversial and influential of these rappers are Tupac and Biggie who are remembered for a long rivalry fought out through lyric battles and conspiracy-theory deaths.

Death Metal
Also emerging from the period between the mid '80s and early '90s, death metal is similar to gangsta rap through the glorification of death and violence in lyrical form. Many singers in this musical genre actually perform what is known as a "death grunt" or "death growl" throughout songs, made by emitting harsh vocal sounds.

Other themes vary drastically by band, region (death metal is also popular in other parts of the world such as Northern Europe), and subgenre (progressive, slam, etc.). Bands such as Cannibal Corpse and Edge of Sanity take on subjects ranging anywhere from Satanism to mythology or even to mysticism.