For metal fans and music enthusiasts alike, cover songs offer a fascinating glimpse into how bands reinterpret and pay homage to classic tracks. This list explores ten of the most impressive and daring cover songs performed by metal bands, showcasing their ability to blend technical prowess with respect for original works. Whether you’re new to metal or a seasoned listener, these covers are must-hear examples of musical creativity and influence.
1. Metallica – “Turn the Page” (Bob Seger cover)
Metallica’s haunting rendition of “Turn the Page” appears on their 1998 album, “Garage Inc.”. Their slower, heavier take transforms Bob Seger’s classic into a dark, brooding metal ballad, emphasizing James Hetfield’s gritty vocals and Kirk Hammett’s melodic solos. It’s a standout example of how metal bands can reinterpret a song while respecting its emotional core.
2. Slayer – “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” (Iron Butterfly cover)
Slayer’s cover of Iron Butterfly’s 17-minute psychedelic epic on their 1999 album “Reign in Blood: Live” strips down the song’s trippy vibe into a ferocious, high-speed thrash assault. The band’s intense speed and aggressive riffs give the song a new, raw energy, proving Slayer’s mastery in transforming psychedelic rock into metal adrenaline.
3. Iron Maiden – “Cross-Eyed Mary” (Jethro Tull cover)
Iron Maiden’s 1992 cover of Jethro Tull’s “Cross-Eyed Mary” appears as a B-side. Their version injects Maiden’s signature galloping rhythm and powerful vocals into a folk-rock classic, showcasing their versatility and respect for progressive rock. It’s a compelling example of how metal bands can bridge genres seamlessly.
4. Sepultura – “Orgasmatron” (Motörhead cover)
On their 1997 album “Roots”, Sepultura delivers a crushing version of Motörhead’s “Orgasmatron”. The band emphasizes the song’s raw aggression, adding tribal percussion and intense guitar work. This cover pays homage to Motörhead’s influence while infusing it with Sepultura’s distinctive groove metal style.
5. Machine Head – “Hallowed Be Thy Name” (Iron Maiden cover)
Machine Head’s cover of Iron Maiden’s epic “Hallowed Be Thy Name” appears on their 2007 “The Blackening” reissue. Their version is notable for its heavier, more aggressive tone, with Robb Flynn’s vocals adding a new layer of brutality. It demonstrates how a classic can be reimagined through a modern metal lens.
6. Anthrax – “Got the Time” (Joe Jackson cover)
Featured on the album “The Greater of Two Evils” (2004), Anthrax’s energetic cover of Joe Jackson’s “Got the Time” combines punk energy with thrash metal intensity. Their fast-paced, high-energy rendition captures the song’s rebellious spirit and showcases the band’s playful side.
7. Opeth – “War Pigs” (Black Sabbath cover)
Opeth’s 2011 cover of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs” is a slow, atmospheric reinterpretation that emphasizes the song’s dark themes. Their use of clean vocals, acoustic passages, and progressive elements creates a haunting, layered version that respects the original while adding their unique touch.
8. Arch Enemy – “Nemesis” (Arch Enemy original)
While not a cover, Arch Enemy’s “Nemesis” from their 2005 album showcases how a band can craft a powerful, anthemic metal song with melodic yet aggressive elements. It exemplifies the band’s ability to blend melody with heavy riffs, making it a modern metal staple.
9. Megadeth – “Anarchy in the U.K.” (Sex Pistols cover)
Megadeth’s 2018 cover of the Sex Pistols’ punk classic appears on their compilation “Warheads on Foreheads”. Their version transforms the raw punk energy into a thrash metal attack, with intricate guitar work and Dave Mustaine’s snarling vocals, bridging punk and metal in a compelling way.
10. DevilDriver – “Beat the Bastards” (The Exploited cover)
DevilDriver’s aggressive take on The Exploited’s “Beat the Bastards” appears on their 2018 album “Outlaws ‘Til the End”. Their thick, heavy sound amplifies the song’s rebellious spirit, making it a fitting tribute that infuses punk’s raw energy with modern groove metal.
How to Choose
When selecting a cover song by a metal band, consider the originality of their interpretation, how well they respect the original’s essence, and their technical execution. A great cover should bring something new to the table—whether it’s a different mood, a new arrangement, or a unique vocal delivery—while honoring the song’s roots. Also, look at the band’s reputation for musical skill and their ability to adapt the genre without losing the song’s core message.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are cover songs by metal bands usually better than the originals?
Not necessarily; they often serve as tributes or reinterpretations. Some covers surpass the originals in creativity or intensity, but it depends on personal taste.
2. Can a cover song be considered a different genre?
Yes, metal bands frequently reimagine songs from other genres—like punk, folk, or classic rock—adding their own style and sometimes transforming the song into a different genre altogether.
3. Are cover songs legal and how do bands typically handle licensing?
Cover songs are legal when properly licensed through mechanical rights agencies. Bands usually obtain permission and pay royalties, especially if they release the cover commercially.
4. What makes a cover song memorable?
Memorable covers often feature a unique twist, exceptional musicianship, or emotional delivery that resonates with listeners and offers a fresh perspective on a familiar track.
5. Should I listen to covers before or after the original?
It’s often best to listen to the original first to understand its context, then explore the cover to appreciate the reinterpretation and differences.
Final Thoughts
Cover songs by metal bands demonstrate the genre’s versatility and respect for musical history. Whether they amplify the original’s aggression, add progressive layers, or simply pay homage with heartfelt performances, these covers enrich the musical landscape. Exploring them offers a deeper appreciation for how metal artists interpret and honor the classics, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.
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