I have a fairly wide range of tastes in music but one of the genrés that I’ve only come to appreciate in my advancing years is heavy metal music. Whilst the musical style may not be to everyone’s taste, you cannot deny that many of the musicians are exceptionally talented individuals.
Guitars are perhaps the most integral part of metal music – the lead guitarist being at the very centre of the group. With shredding guitar solos and power chords, some of the fastest and most intricate guitar work occurs in metal. The lead singer is of course another very important part of the ensemble, with vocals often ranging from operatic highs to guttural growls. Some metal vocalists, such as Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden, are capable of reaching incredibly high notes in full voice. Finally, no heavy metal band would be complete without the drummer. Metal drumming often requires incredibly fast and precise rhythms, particularly with the use of double bass pedal techniques where both feet are used to play two bass drums simultaneously.
As a relative newbie to metal music, these are 10 classic songs that I’ve enjoyed listening to most. I’ve only included a maximum of one release per group which is arguably their best. Let me know which metal songs you’d have in your top 10 and the reasons why.
Breaking the Law – Judus Priest
“Breaking the Law” is one of British band Judas Priest’s most iconic songs, released in 1980 on their album British Steel. It’s often considered a quintessential heavy metal anthem and one of the band’s defining tracks. The song is famous for its straightforward, high-energy sound, catchy riff, and rebellious lyrics.
Enter Sandman – Metallica
“Enter Sandman” is one of Metallica’s most famous songs, released in 1991 as the lead single from their self-titled album, commonly known as The Black Album. The song features a dark, eerie atmosphere with a signature heavy riff and haunting lyrics that explore childhood fears and nightmares. With its thunderous drum intro, unforgettable main riff, and James Hetfield’s commanding vocals, “Enter Sandman” became a massive commercial success and helped Metallica break into the mainstream. It remains a staple in their live performances and is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time.
Paranoid – Black Sabbath
“Paranoid” is one of Black Sabbath’s most well known songs, released in 1970 as the title track of their second album, Paranoid. Originally only written as a filler track, it became the band’s breakthrough hit, featuring a fast-paced, driving riff by guitarist Tony Iommi and Ozzy Osbourne’s urgent, almost frantic vocals. The lyrics explore feelings of anxiety, depression, and paranoia, reflecting the darker themes that would come to define heavy metal. The song became an anthem of the genre, showcasing Black Sabbath’s raw, heavy sound and solidifying their place as pioneers of metal. Its influence can still be heard in countless bands today.
Run to the Hills – Iron Maiden
“Run to the Hills” is one of Iron Maiden’s best and most enduring songs, released in 1982 as the lead single from their album “The Number of the Beast”. The song features galloping riffs, soaring vocals from Bruce Dickinson, and powerful storytelling lyrics about the violent conflict between Native Americans and European settlers. Told from both perspectives, the song critiques the brutality of colonization. Musically, it showcases Maiden’s signature twin-guitar harmonies and energetic drumming, making it a staple of their live performances. “Run to the Hills” helped solidify Iron Maiden’s status as one of the biggest heavy metal bands of all time.
Smoke on the Water – Deep Purple
“Smoke on the Water” is one of Deep Purple’s most famous songs and one of the earlist in the genré, released in 1972 on their album Machine Head. It’s best known for its legendary four-note guitar riff, one of the most recognizable in rock history. The song tells the true story of a fire that broke out at a Frank Zappa concert in Montreux, Switzerland, which destroyed the casino where Deep Purple was planning to record their album. Watching the smoke spread over Lake Geneva inspired the song’s title. With its powerful riff, driving rhythm, and vivid storytelling, “Smoke on the Water” became a rock anthem and a staple for aspiring guitarists.
Symphony of Destruction – Megadeath
“Symphony of Destruction” was released in 1992 on Megadeath’s album “Countdown to Extinction”. The song combines heavy, chugging riffs with politically charged lyrics that depict how easily a corrupt leader can manipulate the masses and bring destruction, using a metaphor of a conductor leading a symphony. Dave Mustaine’s snarling vocals, coupled with the song’s powerful groove and memorable chorus, make it an anthem of rebellion and distrust in authority. The track became a major hit, solidifying Megadeth’s place in mainstream metal and remaining a staple in their live performances.
Poison – Alice Cooper
“Poison” is one of Alice Cooper’s biggest hits, released in 1989 as the lead single from his album “Trash”. The song blends hard rock with a sleeker, more polished sound that fit the glam metal era of the late ’80s. Lyrically, it explores the theme of being irresistibly drawn to someone who is dangerous or toxic, playing on the idea of love as both intoxicating and destructive. With its dark, seductive atmosphere, powerful chorus, and memorable riff, “Poison” became one of Cooper’s most commercially successful songs, revitalizing his career and introducing him to a new generation of fans. It remains a staple of his live performances and an enduring rock anthem.
Am I Evil – Diamond Head
“Am I Evil?” is a legendary heavy metal song by Diamond Head, first released in 1980 on their debut album “Lightning to the Nations”. The track is known for its epic structure, dark lyrics, and powerful, chugging riffs influenced by bands like Black Sabbath and Deep Purple. Its story-driven lyrics, inspired by themes of revenge and witchcraft, add to its sinister tone. Though not a commercial hit initially, the song became a cult classic and gained widespread recognition when Metallica covered it in 1984 as a B-side to Creeping Death. Over time, “Am I Evil?” has been acknowledged as one of the most influential songs in heavy metal history, shaping the sound of thrash and extreme metal.
Back in Black – AC/DC
“Back in Black” is one of AC/DC’s most legendary songs, released in 1980 as the title track of their album Back in Black. It was written as a tribute to their late lead singer, Bon Scott, who passed away earlier that year, with new frontman Brian Johnson taking over vocal duties. The song’s iconic opening riff, powerful vocals, and driving rhythm make it one of the most recognizable rock anthems of all time. Lyrically, it celebrates resilience and defiance in the face of adversity, embodying the band’s determination to continue after Scott’s death. Back in Black went on to become one of the best-selling albums in history, and the song remains a staple of rock radio, sports arenas, and AC/DC’s live performances.
Holy Diver – Dio
“Holy Diver” is the title track from Dio’s 1983 debut album and one of the most legendary songs in heavy metal history. Featuring Ronnie James Dio’s powerful vocals, a driving riff from guitarist Vivian Campbell, and a mystical, fantasy-themed atmosphere, the song became an instant classic. Lyrically, it’s filled with vivid imagery that has sparked debate among fans, often interpreted as a tale of sacrifice, a Christ-like figure, or a metaphor for personal strength. Musically, it combines melodic yet heavy guitar work with a soaring chorus, showcasing Dio’s signature blend of epic storytelling and metal intensity. “Holy Diver” remains one of Dio’s most enduring anthems and a staple in rock and metal culture.