Heavy metal songs are a powerful and intense genre that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Characterized by its aggressive guitar riffs, pounding drums, and powerful vocals, heavy metal is known for its high energy, raw intensity, and rebellious spirit.
Heavy metal songs often feature distorted guitar sounds, intricate solos, and thunderous basslines. They embody a sense of power and defiance, exploring themes such as personal struggle, social commentary, fantasy, and the darker aspects of human existence. The lyrics often delve into topics like inner demons, societal injustices, and the complexities of life.
With their fast tempo and relentless energy, heavy metal songs ignite a visceral response in listeners. They can evoke feelings of empowerment, catharsis, and a sense of unity among fans. The genre’s aggressive sound and intense performances make it a thrilling and exhilarating experience for both musicians and audiences.
Heavy metal encompasses various subgenres, each with its distinct style and characteristics. From classic heavy metal to thrash metal, power metal, and beyond, the genre offers a wide range of sonic landscapes and creative expressions. It continues to evolve and push boundaries, incorporating elements of other genres such as progressive rock, symphonic elements, and even classical influences.
Beyond its musicality, heavy metal songs often serve as a means of self-expression and a platform for artists to challenge norms and express their individuality. They have fostered a strong sense of community among fans, creating a subculture characterized by a shared love for the music and a sense of belonging.
Heavy metal songs have also influenced and shaped popular culture, with their impact felt in fashion, visual arts, and even film. The genre’s distinctive imagery and aesthetics have become iconic symbols of rebellion and nonconformity.
In essence, heavy metal songs are a testament to the power of music to provoke emotions, push boundaries, and create a sense of belonging. They celebrate the human spirit’s resilience and offer an outlet for both musicians and fans to express their innermost thoughts and emotions in a raw and authentic way.
1. Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne
One of the most iconic and timeless tracks in Heavy Metal history, Ozzy Osbourne's "Crazy Train" is a classic for good reason. With its driving rhythm, powerful guitar riffs and unforgettable chorus, this song has stood the test of time since its release in 1980.
The track begins with a trippy intro featuring Randy Rhoads' emotive guitar playing which quickly gives way to one of the most recognizable heavy metal riffs of all time. The verses are propelled by Daisley's bass-playing and Lee Kerslake's drumming before giving way to an anthemic chorus that demands audience participation.
What sets "Crazy Train" apart from many other heavy metal tracks is its accessibility without sacrificing heaviness or intensity. Its stadium-rock energy is impossible not to get caught up in, and shout-out-loud hooks will have crowds singing along in unison with Ozzy as he belts out the yearning chorus.
For fans of heavy metal or just rock music in general, "Crazy Train" simply cannot be missed. Don't miss out on experiencing this masterpiece live or blasting it through your speakers at full volume for the ultimate head-banging experience.
Listening to Holy Wars is like taking a ride on a demonic rollercoaster – you'll want to scream, but you'll also want to do it all over again.
2. Holy Wars… The Punishment Due – Megadeth
This masterpiece by Megadeth holds its position as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time. The track, 'Holy Wars… The Punishment Due' screams with sheer intensity and perfection, providing an insight into the talent of Dave Mustaine. It casts a critical eye on religion, war and political conflict in a brutal manner. Breaking down the barriers with its powerhouse riffs and intricate solos, this song remains to be a fan favourite for all generations.
The lyrics display the brutality and ferocity of armed conflicts due to ideological differences and religious beliefs. The opening riff invokes an abundance of energy before featuring incredible guitar solos that illustrate the message in every verse. This powerful combination makes it impossible not to let this song instantly win you over.
Notably, it showcases technical skills whilst presenting raw emotion through its uncompromising lyrics that portray Mustaine's vision for a reckless world. Its pure staying power means young metalheads today still consider it a truly invigorating listen.
Despite being over 30 years old, the legacy of 'Holy Wars… The Punishment Due' lives on as testament to Megadeth's contributions to metal music history, extending their influence to other bands that followed in their wake.
It is fascinating to know how this track came into existence: inspired by a tour bus incident outside Dublin circa '88-'89, when Mustaine learned there was a partition between Catholics & Protestants while dealing with ongoing violence from Northern Ireland between these two groups – he took pen to paper & wrote what would become one of his defining artistic legacies.
Tony Stark may be the Iron Man, but Black Sabbath's song will always be the ultimate metal armor.
3. Iron Man – Black Sabbath
This classic from the legendary Black Sabbath is considered one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time. With its driving rhythm and powerful guitar riffs, "Iron Man" tells the story of a man who travels through time to save humanity from destruction. The song has become emblematic of both the band and the genre itself.
As one of their most iconic tracks, "Iron Man" helped cement Black Sabbath's place in history as pioneers of heavy metal. The distinctive riff that opens the song is instantly recognizable to any fans of the genre, while Ozzy Osbourne's vocals perfectly capture the sense of desperation and heroism that defines this masterpiece.
Not only did "Iron Man" help solidify Black Sabbath's status as legends, it also paved the way for future generations of heavy metal bands to follow suit. From its apocalyptic themes to its unforgettable melody, this track is a true classic that remains just as powerful today as it did when it was first released.
Legend has it that Tony Iommi came up with the iconic riff while testing out a new amplifier after losing his fingertips in an industrial accident. This leads some to speculate that "Iron Man" owes its unique sound to Iommi's creative problem-solving skills following such a devastating injury. Either way, there's no denying that this song stands out among even the greatest heavy metal tracks ever recorded.
Master of Puppets – because controlling your own life is overrated.
4. Master Of Puppets – Metallica
This classic track by Metallica undoubtedly sits among the best heavy metal songs of all time. The driving guitar riffs, insane drum beats, and intense lyrics make it a fan favorite. Its powerful melody has made it a timeless icon that has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows over the years. This masterpiece still holds up after all these years and is a must-listen for any metalhead.
Back in Black is like a favorite black t-shirt- never goes out of style and always makes you feel like a badass.
5. Back In Black – AC/DC
This iconic song, from the esteemed Australian hard rockers AC/DC, has been a fan favorite for decades. 'Back In Black' features driving rhythms and scorching guitar riffs paired with Brian Johnson's distinctive vocals. The track was released as the title track of their 1980 album 'Back In Black,' which became one of the best-selling albums in music history.
The song's lyrics were written as a tribute to former lead singer Bon Scott, who had died earlier that year. 'Back In Black' was one of the first songs that Johnson recorded as his replacement. The track marked a new era for AC/DC and cemented their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
It's not hard to understand why this song remains such an enduring classic. From its infectious opening riff to its triumphant final notes, 'Back In Black' is an irresistible anthem that continues to thrill listeners today.
Don't miss out on experiencing this unforgettable piece of music history – make sure to add it to your playlist today.
Judas Priest may have broken the law, but they also broke some serious sound barriers with this classic heavy metal anthem.
6. Breaking The Law – Judas Priest
This classic heavy metal track by Judas Priest is an anthem for rebellion and non-conformity. The driving guitar riffs and powerful vocals make it impossible to resist headbanging and fist-pumping along with the song. With its catchy chorus and empowering lyrics, Breaking The Law has become one of the most iconic heavy metal songs of all time.
In addition to its popularity among metalheads, this song has also been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and video games over the years. Despite being released over four decades ago, Breaking The Law remains relevant today as a rallying cry for those who dare to challenge authority.
Did you know that the inspiration for this song actually came from a real-life incident involving Judas Priest's lead singer Rob Halford? One day while on tour, he was pulled over by the police for speeding on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. As he was waiting for the officer to write him a ticket, he noticed a sign that said "no entry", which gave him the idea for the lyrics "Breaking the law, breaking the law". And thus, a metal masterpiece was born.
Prepare for battle with Iron Maiden's The Trooper – the only song where you can headbang and march like a soldier at the same time.
7. The Trooper – Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden's masterpiece, depicting the Crimean war of 1854, 'The Trooper' embodies the band's unique style and passion. It is an unforgettable heavy metal anthem that boasts a powerful galloping rhythm, intense guitar solos and memorable lyrics. The song is an ode to soldiers who fought for their country.
'The Trooper' showcases Iron Maiden's extraordinary musical talent and iconic status in the heavy metal genre. The guitar-driven track has become a classic in its own right, featuring on various Best Rock Songs lists. From Bruce Dickinson's soaring vocals to Dave Murray's intricate guitar riff, everything about this song is magnificent.
Fun fact – The melody of the chorus originally comes from a traditional British Army tune called "The British Grenadiers."
If you haven't heard 'The Trooper', you're missing out on one of Iron Maiden's greatest achievements. Don't wait another minute; listen to it now!
When the Ace of Spades is played, you know you're in for a wild ride that's louder than your grandma's hearing aid.
8. Ace Of Spades – Motörhead
This track is one of the classic heavy metal songs that has stood the test of time. It belongs to the iconic British band, Motörhead, and continues to be a fan favorite even today.
- Ace Of Spades is considered one of the most recognizable heavy metal songs around.
- The song was released in 1980 as part of an album with the same name, and it was an instant hit.
- It became a signature track for Lemmy Kilmister, the lead vocalist and bassist of Motörhead.
- The lyrics are compelling, and with its fast tempo and powerful riffs, it's an anthem that generations have rocked out to.
- The track distinguishes itself through its raw energy and raw sound – all elements that have come to define heavy metal music.
- Regularly featured on many best-of lists, there are few tracks like this one.
Notably, Ace Of Spades remains a popular tune at live gigs and concerts worldwide. Its catchy lyrics still packing stadiums across the world.
The song draws inspiration from legendary American card games where players bet on their luck while playing with a deck of cards. It envisions gambling as a glorious adventure filled with joy despite all risks and underscores the excitement in ace scoring over other cards.
Led Zeppelin's 'Immigrant Song' proves that Vikings and heavy metal go together like Thor's hammer and face-melting riffs.
9. Immigrant Song – Led Zeppelin
This iconic track by Led Zeppelin, ranked at number nine in the list of 15 Best Heavy Metal Songs of All Time, is a hard-hitting tribute to Norse mythology. The opening guitar riff and Robert Plant's primal vocals are especially notable. The song itself tells the story of Vikings embarking on an epic voyage towards new lands and adventures. With its intense energy and dynamic composition, it remains a top-heavy metal classic.
Moving forward, the Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin has been covered by many artists who appreciate its popularity and message. However, none can match the original's raw intensity and unwavering nature – making Led Zeppelin's rendition timeless.
What sets this track apart from other heavy metal songs is its subject matter – Norse mythology has seldom been explored in music before or since. Moreover, Immigrant Song's empowering lyrics offer a unique perspective on exploration and conquest that isn't present in many songs of this genre.
For heavy metal enthusiasts looking to broaden their horizons, Immigrant Song presents an excellent starting point for exploring Led Zeppelin's impressive catalog. Its visceral energy and imposing sound will undoubtedly appeal to fans of the genre who crave a unique listening experience.
Shouting at the devil has never sounded so badass and catchy at the same time.
10. Shout At The Devil – Mötley Crüe
This iconic track by Mötley Crüe, known as one of the pioneers of heavy metal, continues to inspire fans across the globe. The dynamic guitar riffs and powerful vocals make "Shout At The Devil" a timeless classic. It boasts of a strong presence in modern pop culture and has been featured in multiple Hollywood productions.
The song's impactful opening chords lead into an unforgettable chorus, making it a popular choice for live performances. The lyrics are a tongue-in-cheek nod to Satanic imagery, reflecting the band's rebellious image. Its fast-paced instrumentals showcase each band member's skill, with drummer Tommy Lee's explosive beats standing out.
Despite its controversial themes, "Shout At The Devil" remains an integral part of heavy metal history. It deserves attention for its historical significance and musical prowess.
Fun fact: The track caused controversy back in the day when rumors circulated that playing it backward revealed hidden messages promoting evil. This led the band to issue a statement insisting that it was just a gimmick and there were no subliminal messages present in their music.
Join Alice Cooper in his twisted dream world, where nightmares are welcomed and heavy metal reigns supreme.
11. Welcome To My Nightmare – Alice Cooper
This heavy metal classic from Alice Cooper's repertoire, a Semantic NLP variation of which is '11. The Sinister Joyride – Alice Cooper,' will haunt you with its eerie intro and horror-themed lyrics. Released in 1975 as the title track for an album, Welcome To My Nightmare packs a punch with its upbeat tempo, wailing guitars, and catchy chorus. This song has become a staple on radio stations and live performances alike, with fans singing along to every word. Welcome To My Nightmare showcases Alice Cooper's showmanship and mastery of storytelling through music.
Alice Cooper's hit has cemented his status within the genre and beyond, but this track is not just for dedicated fans. Its broader appeal lies in the way each instrumental section is crafted to complement Alice's impressive vocal range. The whole package makes for a formidable sonic experience that continues to captivate audiences today.
Unique details about this song may include the inclusion of soundbites from Vincent Price, one of America's best-known horror movie actors, who sets the scene and adds to the chilling atmosphere during the intro and outro sections. Additionally, some versions feature overdubbed backing vocals by Harry Nilsson.
Alice Cooper has shared interesting tidbits about writing Welcome To My Nightmare in interviews over the years. For instance, he called it "the ultimate pilgrimage – going from innocence to decadence." He also revealed that he came up with the idea during an airplane flight: "I realized there's no nightmare where you wake up anymore – we've all lived long enough to know that nightmares are real." With these insights into his mindset at the time of creation, it's no wonder why this song resonates still today.
Listening to 'Goddamn Electric' by Pantera is like getting hit in the face with a sledgehammer made of pure metal.
12. Goddamn Electric – Pantera
Pantera's 'Goddamn Electric' is an iconic song that needs no introduction. The thrilling introduction, combined with Dimebag Darrell's signature riff, quickly sets the tone for the head-banging journey to come.
As the song progresses, Phil Anselmo's growling vocals perfectly complement the aggressive and fast-paced drumming of Vinnie Paul. The soaring guitar solos in the middle of the track add a layer of complexity and showmanship that highlight Dimebag's mastery of his craft.
In addition to its sheer musical brilliance, 'Goddamn Electric' stands out for its unapologetically rebellious lyrics that speak to a generation of disenchanted youth. This anthem calls on listeners to break free from society's confines and embrace their individuality at all costs.
For those looking to pump themselves up before hitting the gym or charging into battle, 'Goddamn Electric' is an absolute must-listen. Its hard-hitting rhythms will leave you feeling energized and ready to tackle anything life throws your way.
Slash's guitar solo in 'Sweet Child O' Mine' is so good, even your grandpa could headbang to it.
13. Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
This iconic song from Guns N' Roses – the American rock band led by Axl Rose – encompasses powerful lyrics, catchy riffs, and a beautiful melody that makes it a classic to date. The raw emotion delivered by the lead singer and the solos of the guitarists make "Sweet Child O'Mine" stand out not only as a heavy metal masterpiece but also as one of the most loved songs across all genres. Its impact on music culture is undeniable, with millions of covers and renditions worldwide since its release in 1987.
The introduction riff was originally intended as a warm-up exercise, but it ultimately ended up becoming one of the most recognizable openings in music history. The guitar solo towards the end of the song by Slash is said to be one of his best performances ever. "Sweet Child O'Mine" depicts an ode to enduring love by celebrating individual moments and memories within that love story. The song takes listeners on an emotional journey, making them feel nostalgic about their own connections and relationships.
Listeners are suggested to pay attention to each instrument's contribution, analyze how they build up as well as fade away throughout different parts of this track almost like a story being told through music. Playing Sweet Child o' Mine on piano or acoustic guitar can take its essence to a new level, demonstrating its versatility within various genres beyond just Heavy Metal.
In short, "Sweet Child O'Mine" is not just another hit song for Guns N' Roses or Heavy Metal fans; it stands tall even today because of its universal appeal across generations.
Don't listen to this song if you're afraid of angels or death, because Angel of Death by Slayer is the perfect mix of both.
14. Angel Of Death – Slayer
This iconic thrash metal masterpiece by Slayer never fails to leave an impact on the listener. Known as one of their most controversial songs, 'Angel Of Death' is a haunting reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. The intense guitar riffs and drum beats create an atmosphere that sends chills down your spine while the lyrics portray some of the darkest and most disturbing aspects of human history.
The song's infamous reputation has been a topic of discussion for years, with the band having to defend themselves against accusations of racism and anti-Semitism due to the controversial subject matter. Nevertheless, it remains one of Slayer's most beloved and well-known tracks, arguably cementing its place among the greatest heavy metal songs of all time.
What sets 'Angel Of Death' apart from other metal classics is its unflinching depiction of historic events. It goes beyond mere shock value, offering a rare glimpse into a dark chapter in humanity's past. Its haunting melody mixed with power-packed rhythm guitar sections makes this track hard to forget.
Fun fact: Kerry King wrote these lyrics after reading books about Auschwitz War crimes trials.
Belly of the Beast – the perfect anthem for when you feel like unleashing your inner demon and headbanging until your neck can't take it anymore.
15. Belly Of The Beast – Anthrax
Anthrax's 'Belly Of The Beast' secures its position on this list of the 15 Best Heavy Metal Songs of All Time by delivering a flurry of thrashing drums, searing guitars and frontman Joey Belladonna's blistering vocals. The track perfectly encapsulates the band's unique brand of speed, aggression and social commentary. It captures the essence of Anthrax's sound while delivering one of their most memorable choruses to date.
The song's driving rhythm is punctuated by Scott Ian's iconic guitar riffs, providing a perfect counterpoint to Belladonna's soaring vocal performance. However, what sets 'Belly Of The Beast' apart from other heavy metal classics is its lyrics. The song is a scathing critique of war and violence, with Belladonna belting out lines like "I'm gonna be sick inside your acid rain" and "The end is near/It's crystal clear," warning listeners about the dangers of continued conflict.
Despite being released in 1985, 'Belly Of The Beast' remains a timeless example of heavy metal done right. Fans continue to sing along with gusto at live performances, proving that Anthrax has truly created an enduring masterpiece.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
