Ranking the top songs, albums, and artists for your 2023 playlists.

2023 Music: You Gotta Hear This

Metal

Looking for the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-heavy-metal-bands-that-i-know/music-lover?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">best heavy metal</a> bands in 2025? You've landed in the right mosh pit. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of metal, it's exhilarating to see which bands are pushing boundaries and keeping the genre fresh. From brutal riffs to electrifying performances, the year continues to deliver the heavy hitters that metalheads crave.Let's spotlight a few heavyweights making waves this year. Slipknot, with their unmistakable masks and relentless energy, remain a force to be reckoned with, captivating audiences worldwide. Gojira continues to impress with their intricate compositions and environmental advocacy, a blend that sets them apart. Lamb of God, veterans in the scene, keep proving they're not just riding on past glory but smashing it with every new release. These bands illustrate the diversity and power that modern metal brings to the table.Now it's your turn to get involved. We want to know your picks for the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-heavy-metal-bands-that-i-know/music-lover?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">most popular metal bands</a> in 2025. Whether you're headbanging to newcomers or loyal to the legends of the genre, your vote helps shape the metal scene. Dive into our list and let your voice be heard—it's time to thrash out the ultimate list of metal titans.

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The 30+ Best Heavy Metal Bands Of 2025, Ranked By Fans

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Over the years, numerous death metal bands have emerged, showcasing a wide range of talent and pushing the boundaries of the genre. Among these are groups that have consistently delivered groundbreaking performances with a ferocity that has earned them the prestigious title of the best death metal bands. Immerse yourself in the sonic landscape of these top death metal bands as they redefine the genre and carve out an enduring legacy.&nbsp;Death metal bands are renowned for their distinctive sound and unrelenting energy, capturing the essence of the genre while breathing new life into its conventions. The best death metal bands not only epitomize the core elements of death metal but also introduce innovative ideas that elevate their music to new heights. From captivating riffs to guttural growls and intricate drumming, these artists have had a significant impact on the music industry, garnering both popular fascination and critical acclaim.&nbsp;Within the vast pool of outstanding death metal bands, certain artists consistently rise to the top as the finest examples of the genre. Among the pantheon of best death metal bands, iconic groups such as Death, Morbid Angel, and Cannibal Corpse have left an indelible imprint on the scene. Death, often regarded as the pioneers of the genre, have captivated audiences with their revolutionary sound and complex storytelling. Morbid Angel's unique blend of technical proficiency and brutal aesthetics has earned them an esteemed place in the realm of death metal. Cannibal Corpse, infamous for their shocking imagery and pulverizing riffs, has consistently pushed the envelope with their visceral sonic assault. These influential artists serve as prime examples of the caliber and diversity inherent in the best death metal bands.&nbsp;As the world of death metal music progresses, the achievements of these best death metal bands continue to stand as inspiring touchstones for both fans and emerging artists alike. With each powerful performance and intricately crafted album, the best death metal bands continue to leave their mark on the annals of music history. As the genre evolves and new artists emerge, the legacy of these phenomenal groups serves as a testament to the uncompromising spirit of death metal and its lasting influence on heavy music.

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Rock

The Scorpions have cemented their legacy in the annals of rock music. Emerging from the heart of Germany, the band has &nbsp;captivated audiences worldwide with their energetic performances and innovative songwriting. Immerse yourself in the band's musical evolution that spans over five decades. Explore the Scorpion's impressive discography through a delightful journey through their best albums, each embodying a distinct era of their journey.&nbsp;The Scorpions have allowed their musical landscape to evolve while, at the same time, maintaining the essence of their sound. Each album in their discography captures the band's pioneering spirit, while including genres ranging from hard rock to heavy metal. The influence of their top albums and greatest songs extends beyond their music, shaping trends within the industry and impacting broader pop culture. From intoxicating riffs to soulful power ballads, the Scorpions’ array of styles are captured vividly in their best albums.&nbsp;Of the memorable records that populate the Scorpions discography, Blackout and Lovedrive stand out. Blackout, released in 1982, is high-octane rock, demonstrating the Scorpions' ability to create catchy tunes while grounding them in poignant lyrics. Lovedrive, their sixth studio album, represented a turning point, seeking out new sonic territories that contributed to their worldwide recognition. This streak of innovation continued with albums Love at First Sting and In Trance. Each album opens a gateway into the world of the Scorpions. Beneath each album description is an option to purchase it directly. &nbsp;The engaging saga of Scorpions' musical journey is part of their enduring appeal. The band remains relevant across the changing tides of the music industry, with their best albums offering timeless testaments to their artistry. As you delve into these records, you'll savor every note and lyric that lay the groundwork for the Scorpions' lasting impact on rock history.&nbsp;

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Lists that rank the best metal songs about everything from the Dark Lord to a broken heart.

Metal Songs About Everything

Metal has some of the most intense songs about isolation and loneliness. If you've ever found solace in screaming guitars and thundering drums, then you know the cathartic power that heavy metal can have on your emotions. Below, we've curated a list of the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-80s-metal-songs/ranker-music?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">best metal songs</a> about loneliness.The list includes songs like "Lonely Day" by System of a Down, for example, which captures the haunting serenity that comes with introspection. Then there's Megadeth's "In My Darkest Hour," where Dave Mustaine's gritty vocals confront feelings of despair with a vengeance. Popular tracks like Godsmack’s "I Stand Alone" serve up an anthem of empowerment amidst solitude.Find your favorite heavy metal <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-songs-about-loneliness/reference?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">song about being lonely</a> and submit your votes. Your input will help us shape the ultimate metal playlist for those feeling isolated.

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The 45+ Best Metal Songs About Loneliness, Ranked

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Lists that rank the greatest bands and artists in every metal genre.

Hard Rock & Heavy Metal

Metalcore is a genre with talent and intensity, boasting a lineup of bands that have become a part of music history with their top songs and popular albums. The best metalcore bands of all time aren't just selected by a random selection from a hat. They're chosen by factors like fan fever, ferocious riffs, and a knack for pumping out anthems that reverberate across continents.&nbsp;In the world of the largest metalcore bands, we find a rich history of sound that is steeped in raw emotion and unyielding intensity. These heavy hitters weren't simply part of the movement; they defined it, shaped it, and brought it into the mainstream. Their distinctive styles, unprecedented musical growth, and compelling lyrics made them monuments in the world of metalcore. Each of these top metalcore bands has left a great mark on the genre, transforming it with their innovative compositions and exciting performances.&nbsp;Take the Architects, for instance. With their fusion of deep, meaningful lyrics and robust instrumentals, they crafted a refreshing sound. Then there's Killswitch Engage, whose innovative combination of melodic hooks and aggressive riffs set them apart from their peers, and continues to influence the genre today. Or consider August Burns Red, a band widely acclaimed for its complex structures, unconventional rhythms, and lyrical ingenuity. Each of these artists encapsulates what it means to be among the greatest metalcore bands, given their critical acclaim, chart-topping records, and countless awards.&nbsp;It's clear that the best metalcore bands of all time aren't a momentary blip. Rather than being popular for a fleeting phase only, they are pillars of a genre that continues to evolve and grow, shaping the musical landscape with every chord, every lyric, and every performance. These popular metalcore bands have proven themselves time and again, etching their names in the annals of music history. Undoubtedly, they've paved the way for future artists, setting a high bar and leaving a lasting legacy that stands the test of time through the tracks of the most significant metalcore bands today and tomorrow.

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This list of the best&nbsp;nu metal bands in the world&nbsp;features the&nbsp;most famous nu metal groups of all time, with the order decided by actual fans of the genre. The top artists below range from Rage Against the Machine and&nbsp;Linkin Park to&nbsp;Korn and&nbsp;Volbeat.&nbsp;

This compilation of musicians serves as an accurate roster&nbsp;of the best examples of nu metal (both newer and older), as well as a good place to start if you&#39;re asking yourself, or friends, exactly how to get into nu metal music; especially since the bands at the top of the list will at the very least be the best choices if you&#39;re looking for a list of good nu metal bands with which to start out. No point in listening to them if they aren&#39;t actually good or even half-way decent nu metal bands.

This list answers the questions &quot;who are the best nu metal bands of all time?&quot; and &quot;who is the greatest nu metal musician ever?&quot;

If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the bands&#39; music (albums and songs)&nbsp;instead of just voting for the most popular nu metal singers and hard core rockers&nbsp;whom you might&#39;ve heard of, but not really listened to closely enough to cast an informed vote.

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The 90+ Best Nu Metal Bands, Ranked

The 90+ Greatest Nu Metal Bands, Ranked By Fans

Thrash Metal

Dive into a sonic journey exploring the best of the best of the thrash metal genre. Renowned for its unrelenting velocity and aggression, thrash metal has left an indelible mark on the music landscape. This guide offers an incisive look at the trailblazers who defined the style, innovated within it, and unleashed some of the most memorable riffs and rhythms in music history. From rebellious anthems to intricate compositions, these maestros have birthed and nurtured a relentless form of art that continues to resonate globally.&nbsp;Revel in the exploration of the finest thrash metal bands that have graced the scene. Known for their distinct style marked by rapid double bass drumming, complex guitar solos, and aggressive vocals, these acts have not just witnessed but shaped the evolution of thrash metal. Their impact has permeated beyond genre boundaries, influencing the mainstream and establishing unique sonic signatures. Each strikes an impressive chord with audiences worldwide, their thrash songs echoing through the storied history of thrash metal stardom.&nbsp;Delve into the legacies of exemplary bands such as Slayer, Megadeth, and Metallica. Slayer's furor is palpable in their oeuvre, garnering them recognition as a titan of the thrash genre. Their album Reign In Blood stands as one of the greatest thrash metal achievements. Megadeth, on the other hand, has garnered a vast fanbase with their distinct blend of technical proficiency and melodic hooks. Their thrash album Rust in Peace is an undisputed genre classic. Metallica, synonymous with thrash metal, weaves intricate song structures with their raw sound. Their groundbreaking albums, like Master Of Puppets, are still revered in the metal community.&nbsp;As a culmination, this thorough examination of the paramount thrash bands paints a vivid tableau of thrash metal's illustrious history. From the genre's beginnings to its height of popularity, these bands have played an instrumental role in shaping a genre that serves as an exhilarating outlet for expression and rebellion. Their distinct styles and incomparable contributions have solidified their places in the pantheon of thrash music bands, making them not just the best thrash bands but also the beating heart of thrash metal's relentless rhythm. So, buckle in for an adrenaline-fueled odyssey through the thrash metal universe.&nbsp;

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The 100+ Best Thrash Bands, Ranked

The 100+ Best Thrash Metal Bands, Ranked By Fans

Rappers

Ranking <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-greatest-rappers-of-all-time?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">the best rap</a> metal bands and artist by readers&#39;&nbsp;votes, this list of the best rap <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-best-rock-bands-of-all-time?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">rock bands and singers</a>&nbsp;let&rsquo;s you see who rap metal fans think are the greatest rap rock artists of all time.&nbsp;Though the proverbial seeds were planted in the 1980s, rap metal didn&#39;t become a genre to be reckoned with until the late 1990s. Fusing the vocal elements of hip hop with heavy metal instrumentation, rap metal became hugely popular, with many rap metal bands scoring radio hits and saw their albums at or near the top of the Billboard charts. The pinnacle for this period can be summed up by the Family Values Tour, which saw both rap rock bands and rappers combine to tour the country spreading the ethos of rap metal. This was the highwater mark for the genre, and rap metal has managed to endure even if its some of its creators haven&#39;t.

So, what are the best rap metal bands? Any <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/old-school-hip-hop-bands-and-artists/ranker-music?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">list of rap</a> metal has to include the likes of Korn, Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park,&nbsp;Slipknot, and Rage Against the Machine. These are the bands closely associated with the genre and with good reason. If not for these bands, then rap metal wouldn&#39;t have been the force it was during its heyday. They are still considered among the best rap metal bands. Good rap rock bands are still a force on radio and you are probably familiar with many of their big songs.

That said, it&#39;s up to you to decide what&nbsp;the best rap metal bands are. This list answers the questions &quot;who are the best rap metal bands of all time?&quot; and &quot;who is the greatest rap metal musician ever?&quot; If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band&#39;s music instead of just voting for the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/most-famous-rappers-right-now/celebrity-lists?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">most popular rap</a> metal bands that you might&#39;ve heard of.&nbsp;

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The Very Best Rap Metal Bands

The 40+ Best Rap Metal Bands | List of the Best Rap Metal Artists/Groups

Metal music has long been known to confront mortality head-on, delivering catharsis and emotional resonance through its visceral instrumentation and evocative lyrics. Exploring the best songs about death reveals a profound impact on listeners, delving into themes of loss, grief, and existentialism.Metal songs about death demonstrate unparalleled depth and intensity, contributing to the broad spectrum of musical interpretations of mortality's lasting influence. These compositions offer an unflinching examination of the finality of life, providing listeners with both comfort and a shared sense of humanity. From somber ballads to adrenaline-fueled anthems, these <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-80s-metal-songs/ranker-music?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">best metal songs</a> about death elevate the art form while giving a voice to feelings that are often difficult to express.&nbsp;For instance, Iron Maiden's "Hallowed Be Thy Name" tells the gripping tale of a man facing execution, instilling a sense of urgency and defiance. Meanwhile, Metallica's "Fade to Black" delves into themes of helplessness and despair, eliciting raw emotion from its audience. Pantera's iconic "Cemetery Gates" further showcases the versatility of metal songs about death, blending intricate guitar work with powerful vocals to craft a haunting ode to lost love. These masterpieces exemplify the visceral nature of metal music when addressing mortality, resulting in unforgettable and unmistakably best songs about death.&nbsp;Metal music's contribution to the best songs about death highlights the power of art to convey complex emotions and provide catharsis in the face of life's great mysteries. As demonstrated by these exceptional tracks, artists have embraced the challenge of discussing the final frontier with unparalleled creativity, emotion, and intensity. In doing so, they have created an indelible legacy that continues to resonate with fans and solidify metal music’s status as a poignant and powerful conduit for understanding the complex nature of life and death.

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The Best Metal Songs About Death, Ranked

Metal Songs About Death | Best Hard Rocks Songs About Dying

Dark metal, a subgenre that combines elements of gothic, doom, and extreme metal, has produced some of the most iconic and influential bands in the metal community. With its haunting melodies, atmospheric soundscapes, and aggressive style, dark metal has carved a niche in the music world by offering a unique sonic experience. The best dark metal bands not only exemplify the core tenets of the genre, but also push the boundaries, integrating innovative ideas and techniques to create groundbreaking music.&nbsp;The best dark metal bands are recognized for embodying the essence of dark metal while simultaneously ushering in new influences and styles. These artists have made their mark on the music industry, both in terms of pop culture relevance and critical acclaim. Their contributions to the dark metal scene not only resonate with die-hard fans, but also inspire and pave the way for future generations of musicians, helping to shape the ever-evolving landscape of metal music.&nbsp;Pioneering acts such as Celtic Frost, Bethlehem, and Cradle of Filth exemplify the best dark metal bands, having contributed immensely to the development of this evocative genre. Celtic Frost, hailing from Switzerland, is known for its pioneering fusion of black metal, thrash metal, and doom metal elements, laying the groundwork for numerous genres to follow. Bethlehem, a German group, has been praised for their inventive use of harsh and melodic vocal styles, elevating the emotional depth of their music. Cradle of Filth, a British powerhouse, gained prominence with their theatrical performances and incorporation of gothic and symphonic elements, creating a distinctive, cinematic sound. These trailblazing artists represent just a fraction of the incredible talents within the realm of dark metal.&nbsp;As dark metal continues to evolve, the indelible contributions of its best bands will remain influential, inspiring generations of musicians to explore this enigmatic genre. These musicians continue to captivate audiences with their unique blend of styles, pushing the boundaries of dark metal and solidifying its place in the annals of music. As the evolution of dark metal progresses, it's evident that the legacy left by these innovative bands will remain influential, inspiring generations of artists to come.

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The Best Dark Metal Bands

Dark Metal Bands | List of Best Dark Metal Groups

Metal songs about revenge are plentiful, but which is the best one? That’s what this list is about: Pure feelings of anger, hate, and the need to get revenge on the person who slighted you in some way. How far that revenge goes…well, depending on the specific revenge metal songs, it can go very far. “Homicidal rage” is a&nbsp;phrase that comes to mind with some of these tracks.What is the first metal vengeance song you think of? For many, it’s “Payback” by Slayer. Others might cite “Seek &amp; Destroy” by Metallica or “The Sentinel” by Judas Priest. All of these <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/metal-songs-about-war/ranker-music?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">hard rock songs</a> about revenge qualify. Some of the songs on this list of metal songs about getting even involve getting revenge on specific people – a personal enemy, or an ex who ripped out your heart and set it on fire. Other song themes here involve revenge on a larger entity – including a corrupt government, or a specific group of wrongdoers.Pick your poison: These metal revenge songs all carry the overall theme in the title or in the lyrics (or both), but they present vengeance in vastly different ways. Whether you’re a perpetually vengeful person looking to expand a playlist or someone dealing with a recent betrayal, chances are, you’ll find something on this list that suits your need for vengeance – at least in song.

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Revenge

The 45 Best Metal And Rock Songs About Revenge

The 45 Best Metal Songs About Revenge, Ranked By Fans

Devin Townsend

We&#39;re ranking the best Devin Townsend <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-greatest-albums-of-all-time?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">albums of all time</a>, including the best&nbsp;Strapping Young Lad albums. Leading several <a href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/best-heavy-metal-bands-that-i-know" target="_blank">successful heavy metal bands</a>, Devin Townsend&#39;s discography&nbsp;features many popular songs, like &quot;Lucky Animals,&quot;&nbsp;&quot;Evermore,&quot;&nbsp;&quot;Love?&quot; and &quot;Almost Again.&quot; What is the greatest Devin Towsend&nbsp;album ever?

From Strapping Young Lad&#39;s 1995&nbsp;debut album Heavy as a Really Heavy Thing to Townsend&#39;s 2019 solo&nbsp;album Empath, this list of Devin Townsend&nbsp;albums also includes his projects with the Devin Townsend Project, The Devin Townsend Band, and as Ocean Machine.

Vote up the best Devin Townsend&nbsp;albums, and vote down the ones that were disappointing.

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The Best Devin Townsend and Strapping Young Lad Albums, Ranked

Ranking All 24 Devin Townsend & Strapping Young Lad Albums

What are the best metal songs from the decade that brought the genre from the fringe it enjoyed in the 1970s to the mainstream in the '80s? To answer that question, let's rank the best '80s heavy metal songs that truly defined the decade and inspired all of the metal acts that followed in the '90s and beyond.The 1980s is one of the best decades to feature metal music thanks to the growing popularity of the genre. These were the years that Ozzy Osbourne killed it with solo hits like "Crazy Train" and Iron Maiden hit the airwaves with "Wrathchild." Slayer's "Angel of Death" kicked off the band's opening track of their&nbsp;1986 album&nbsp;Reign in Blood with an analysis of Dr. Joseph Mengele and his actions during WWII. That level of depth was especially common in '80s&nbsp;metal, which is one of the reasons the genre solidified itself during the decade. Some other incredible tracks from the age of hair bands include Dio's "Holy Diver," Exodus' "Strike of the Beast," and Motorhead's "Ace of Spades."Vote up your favorite '80s metal songs&nbsp;on this ranked list, and add any tracks that aren't here already.

The Best '80s Metal Songs, Ranked

The Best '80s Metal Songs That Still Shred Today, Ranked

An offshoot of the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/new-wave-of-british-heavy-metal-bands-and-musicians/reference?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">New Wave of British Metal</a>, speed metal emerged at the end of the 1970s and early 1980s. The genre can be described as extremely fast (speed metal isn&#39;t just a clever name), melodic, heavy/hardcore, and aggressive. Furthermore, speed metal showcases both solos and a technical precision that demonstrates how truly talented the best speed metal bands are. The increased tempo, power chords, and more authoritative sound helped define speed metal to its legions of fans.

So, what are the best speed metal groups of all time? If you&#39;re going to talk about speed metal bands, you have to include the names Motorhead, Anthrax, Judas Priest, Metallica (during those early years) and Helloween. All of these speed metal rockers played an important role in shaping the genre, and its popularity remains strong today. The best speed metal artists have been able to play some of the biggest arenas (and even stadiums)&nbsp;in the world, which is a testament not only to their popularity, but also their skill as musicians.

That said, it&#39;s up to you to determine which&nbsp;speed metal bands are the best. This list answers the questions &quot;what&nbsp;are the top&nbsp;speed metal bands of all time?&quot; and &quot;who is the greatest speed metal musician ever?&quot;&nbsp;If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the bands&#39; music (albums and songs) instead of just voting for the most popular, newer/modern, or&nbsp;famous speed metal bands that you might&#39;ve heard of.&nbsp;

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The 65+ Best Speed Metal Bands, Ranked

The 65+ Best Speed Metal Bands, Ranked By Fans

Culture

If you’re looking for some great metal songs for weddings, this list should prove quite helpful. Metal for weddings isn’t always a perfect fit – but there are more songs than you think that are appropriate.When it comes to the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-heavy-metal-bands-that-i-know/music-lover?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">best metal music</a> or hard <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/classic-rock-first-dance-songs/ranker-music?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">rock songs for weddings</a>, consider how they’ll be used. If you’re walking down the aisle, you might want to consider a softer metal song. Or, if you have time, think of your favorite metal songs and see if there are any instrumental versions floating around out there.This list of metal songs to play at a wedding include some of the obvious (and likely the most popular choices), like “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica, “This Love” by Pantera, “Love Me Forever” by Motorhead, and “I’ll Be There” by Megadeth.Also, if you can’t figure out a way to work in good metal music for the wedding itself, you can always use most of these tunes as metal wedding reception songs. Many of them are appropriate for a first dance.Vote for your top choices for the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-80s-metal-songs/ranker-music?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">best metal songs</a> to play at weddings, and add your own choices, too. This way, we’ll have a great metal wedding&nbsp;playlist.

The Best Metal Songs for Weddings

Best Metal Songs for Weddings | Hard Rock Wedding Playlist Ideas

When heavy metal first emerged at the beginning of the 1970s, naysayers would have never suspected that the bands from those early years would be considered some of the most classic metal groups. These old school acts are widely considered among the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-hard-rock-bands-and-artists/music-lover?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">top heavy metal bands of all time</a>, with original styles and some of the greatest studio albums and songs&nbsp;in metal history.&nbsp;

So, what&nbsp;are the best classic heavy metal bands? Every list&nbsp;must feature&nbsp;Black Sabbath at or&nbsp;near the top. The UK natives pretty much invented the genre, and all of heavy metal. Between Ozzy Osbourne&#39;s vocals and Tony Iommi&#39;s guitar, the entire foundation for <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-heavy-metal-bands-that-i-know/music-lover?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">all heavy metal bands</a> was laid. If not for Sabbath, bands like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, or Metallica may not have existed. Even the best traditional&nbsp;metal artists owe a debt of gratitude to Black Sabbath. No matter which edition of Black Sabbath you like - Ozzy or Dio edition - they are easily the most influential classic metal band.&nbsp;

If you&#39;re a <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-metal-band-fans/charley-ruddell?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">heavy metal fan</a> and know everything there is to know about the top classic metal bands, then make sure that your voice is&nbsp;heard.&nbsp;This list answers the questions &quot;who are the best classic metal bands of all time?&quot; and &quot;who is the greatest classic metal musician ever?&quot;

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The Best Classic Metal Bands

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Ranking the best guitarists, instruments, and songs to play for everyone, from those who just picked up a guitar to seasoned musicians.

Anyone Can Play Guitar

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List of the greatest metal <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/crowdranked-list/the-greatest-guitarists-of-all-time?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">guitarists of all time</a>, with photos. Clearly, the list contains a broad selection of guitarists who can still be classified as "metal," though some of the featured guitarists predate the period in which "heavy metal" was enjoying mainstream, popular success. It also includes guitarists such as Brian May and Jimi Hendrix who are not typically referred to as "metal guitarists" as their primary genre – but their guitar sounds were actually highly influential in early <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-heavy-metal-bands-that-i-know/music-lover?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">heavy metal music</a>.Who are the best metal guitarists of all time? Which musicians shredded the hardest on their guitars? The list also notably contains memorable duos or guitar groups, as line-ups featuring multiple guitarists who compliment one another is such a fixture of the metal genre. Guitarists who are featured as part of a group (such as Megadeth's Dave Mustaine and Marty Friedman or KISS's Ace Frehley and Paul Stanley) should not be listed individually except in rare circumstances where that guitarist had notable success and a specific style while playing solo as well as with a metal group. If you can think of anyone who would be in your personal top 100, then definitely add them to this list.&nbsp;

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The Best Metal Guitarists and Guitar Teams

Best Metal Guitarists of All Time

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Fascinating things you didn't know about your favorite entertainers, and lists that rank the greatest rock singers and musicians ever to grace the spotlights.

True Rock Stars

Lists that rank the very best musicians most of us have never heard of.

Great Musicians to Know

The realm of rock music has been graced with the magic of many an extraordinary bassist. Their creativity and skill are the pulse and backbone of memorable tunes that have rocked generations. Each representing unique styles and unparalleled talent, these bassists are sure to be listed in the annals of music history as definitive masters of their craft.&nbsp;No exploration into famous rock bassists would be complete without acknowledging the indomitable talent of Flea, Geddy Lee, and Les Claypool. These illustrious musicians have not only earned legions of fans but have also carved distinctive niches in the landscape of rock and roll. With powerful performances and evocative tunes, they stand among the best bass players to have ever strummed the strings.&nbsp;Flea is known for his high-octane performances and remains a paragon of bass playing mastery. His intricate bass lines underpin the Chili Peppers' live performances, creating a groove that is infectious and vital. Then there's Geddy Lee, whose technical virtuosity reverberates through every Rush track. His songs, from "YYZ" to "Tom Sawyer," exhibit inspirational melodic intricacies and musical versatility. Les Claypool, the avant-garde bassist from Primus, is also among the greats, continually experimenting with styles from slap bass to fingerpicking to leave an indelible mark on rock music.&nbsp;As you embark on this musical exploration, you will be inspired by the prowess of these rock bass virtuosos. These titans of rock music strike resounding chords, that echo through time. Their unforgettable tunes have underscored iconic moments in our lives and will make you appreciate - one more time - the greatest bass players of all time. &nbsp;

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The Best Rock Bassists of All Time

The 100+ Greatest Rock Bassists of All Time, Ranked

Lists that rank the best bands and musicians in every genre.

Ranking Top Bands and Artists

Dive into the thunderous world of heavy metal where the riffs are massive and the legends loom even larger. The annals of music history are etched with the names of heavy metal titans whose sound has transcended mere genre boundaries. Think Judas Priest and Black Sabbath – architects of a movement, goliaths in a realm where rock 'n' roll morphs into something even more potent.In this sacred hall of fame, the conversation isn't just about who's made a mark; it's an ongoing debate about supremacy in the heavy metal universe. These bands are more than a heavy sound—they stand as a formidable force in the entire spectrum of rock music. But among these storied acts, which one reigns supreme?This is where your discerning ear comes into play. Champion the heavy metal bands that get your head banging the hardest, and have your say in the grand pecking order of metal mastery. Feel free to scale down the notches on any band that doesn't quite make your cut. This isn't just about heavy metal; it's about the ultimate heavy experience. From the trailblazers to the new blood, to the innovators who've kept the original members roster or embraced change without missing a beat (think the evolving lineup of Alice in Chains), they all have a place here.With a lineup featuring the likes of Metallica thundering from American soil, the British invasion of Iron Maiden, to the '90s churn of Tool and Korn, we're handing you the axe to carve out your vision of the metal pantheon. So, go ahead, make your voice heard in this metallic symphony curated for and by fans with the mettle for metal. Let's find out which <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-heavy-metal-bands-right-now/music-lover?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">heavy metal band</a> truly epitomizes the genre's raw power and cultural impact. Vote, rerank, and raise the horns for the very best in heavy metal.

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The Greatest Heavy Metal Bands Of All Time

The 260+ Best Heavy Metal Bands Of All Time, Ranked

When it comes to virtuosity on the six-string, there are countless trailblazing women who have earned their place among <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/rolling-stone_s-top-100-guitarists-of-all-time/music-lover?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">the best guitarists of all time</a>. These women have contributed significantly to metal, rock, blues, and beyond. As pioneers in their fields and inspirations for countless aspiring musicians, their contributions cannot be overstated.&nbsp;The best female guitarists demonstrate virtuosity in various musical styles, from intricate solos to rhythmic finger-picking. Their distinct approaches to guitar-playing often serve as defining features for their bands or the solo projects they've undertaken. Through innovative techniques and passion for the instrument, these women reshaped the landscape of modern music while proving that gender doesn't matter when it comes to groundbreaking artistry.&nbsp;Cutting through the noise in today's crowded musical landscape are standout artists like Miyako (Lovebites), Midori (Gacharic Spin), and Kanami Tono (Band-Maid) - each bringing their A-game in technical skills to their projects. For instance, Miyako's neoclassical speed metal solos dazzle with breakneck velocity while Midori's rock-infused riffs inject energy into her performances. Kanami Tono's melodic lead lines provide a powerful complement to the heavier rhythms within Band-Maid's signature sound. These revered musicians represent only a few of today's best female guitarists.&nbsp;The exceptional female artists featured in this compilation have truly impacted the world of music. While many more trailblazing women work magic on the guitar every day, there is no doubt that these notable figures will continue inspiring generations of budding musicians for years to come.&nbsp;