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Metallica’s profound impact on the heavy metal world is undeniable. Since their formation in 1981, the band revolutionized the genre with a blend of aggressive thrash metal, complex songwriting, and sheer musical power. Formed by drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist/vocalist James Hetfield, Metallica’s early lineup also featured guitarist Dave Mustaine (later replaced by Kirk Hammett) and bassist Ron McGovney, with Cliff Burton and later Jason Newsted and Robert Trujillo contributing to the band’s bass legacy. Over the years, Metallica’s music became a blueprint for the heavy metal scene, influencing countless bands across various subgenres.
With their debut album Kill ‘Em All in 1983, Metallica introduced a raw and relentless sound that quickly set them apart from their peers. Their subsequent releases, including Ride the Lightning (1984) and the iconic Master of Puppets (1986), solidified their status as pioneers of thrash metal. Each album pushed the boundaries of heavy music, blending intricate guitar work, rapid tempos, and socially conscious lyrics. The band achieved unprecedented commercial success with their self-titled album in 1991, known as The Black Album, which included classics like “Enter Sandman” and “Sad But True.” To date, Metallica has released 11 studio albums, selling over 125 million records worldwide and earning numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards.
What sets Metallica apart from many of their contemporaries is their ability to evolve while staying true to their heavy metal roots. They’ve experimented with their sound, from the orchestral collaborations on S&M to the stripped-back production of St. Anger, without ever losing the raw energy and emotion that defines their music. Their fanbase remains one of the most devoted in the world, and their live performances are legendary for their intensity and passion. It’s no surprise that Metallica is widely regarded as one of the “Big Four” of thrash metal, alongside Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax, and their influence continues to reverberate throughout the music world.
In this article, we explore some of the best covers of Metallica’s most iconic songs, showcasing how diverse artists from various genres have interpreted and paid tribute to the band’s enduring legacy. From power metal bands to hard rock legends, the artists on this list have reimagined Metallica’s music in unique ways, highlighting the universality of the band’s songs. Each cover brings something new to the table while honoring the original tracks’ intensity, emotion, and musicianship. Let’s dive into the top 10 Metallica covers, starting with the blistering energy of Sabaton’s take on “For Whom the Bell Tolls.”
# 10 – For Whom The Bell Tolls – Sabaton
Opening this loud and heavy list of Top 10 Covers of Metallica Songs is Sabaton’s powerful rendition of “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” Originally written and performed by Metallica, the song was first released on their second studio album, Ride the Lightning, in 1984. The song draws its inspiration from Ernest Hemingway’s novel For Whom the Bell Tolls, particularly a scene in Chapter 27 that details the brutal loss of five soldiers during an airstrike in the Spanish Civil War. The lyrical themes of death, war, and futility are central to both the book and the song, and the dark, crushing sound Metallica crafted around this narrative remains iconic within thrash metal.
Sabaton’s cover of “For Whom the Bell Tolls” was included on their 2014 album Heroes, which is an apt title given the song’s historical subject matter. Known for their militaristic themes and lyrical focus on historical battles and wartime heroes, Sabaton was a fitting choice to reinterpret this Metallica classic. The band’s power metal style adds a new layer of grandiosity and melodic precision to the original thrash anthem, maintaining the track’s intensity while making it their own. Sabaton’s version features their signature bombastic instrumentation, particularly the use of sharp guitar riffs and pounding drums, which heightens the drama and tension that Metallica originally infused into the track.
Recorded at Abyss Studios and produced by Peter Tägtgren, Sabaton’s cover retains the song’s brooding atmosphere while amplifying the sound with their distinct blend of epic metal. Guitarists Chris Rörland and Thobbe Englund deliver tight, searing riffs, and Hannes van Dahl’s drumming drives the rhythm with the precision and force fans have come to expect from Sabaton. Vocalist Joakim Brodén’s deep, growling voice adds a new dimension to the lyrics, bringing a heavier, more operatic tone to the song’s storytelling.
While Metallica’s version of “For Whom the Bell Tolls” remains a legendary thrash anthem, Sabaton’s interpretation stands out due to the band’s unique ability to transform songs into cinematic metal epics. Their version retains the emotional weight of the original but presents it in a larger-than-life format, making it an exhilarating cover that suits the band’s thematic focus on war and heroism. Sabaton’s cover is a fitting tribute to one of Metallica’s greatest songs and sets the perfect tone for this collection of Metallica covers.
Read More: Top 10 Sabaton Songs
# 9 – No Remorse – Diamond Head
Diamond Head’s decision to cover “No Remorse” came as part of their 40th-anniversary re-recording of their seminal album Lightning to the Nations (released in 2020), which included covers of songs by bands that had been inspired by them. It’s a particularly fitting collaboration since Metallica has frequently cited Diamond Head as one of their biggest influences, covering several Diamond Head songs throughout their career, most notably “Am I Evil?”. Now, with Diamond Head turning the tables and covering a Metallica song, this version of “No Remorse” reflects the deep mutual respect between the two bands.
Produced by Karl Wilcox and Brian Tatler, and recorded at Circle Studios in Birmingham, UK, Diamond Head’s cover of “No Remorse” brings their own signature sound while staying faithful to the original’s aggressive pace. Brian Tatler’s guitar work is sharp and precise, while Rasmus Bom Andersen’s vocals bring a fresh but familiar energy to the song. The rhythm section, with Wilcox on drums and Dean Ashton on bass, complements the hard-hitting nature of the track, maintaining the relentless drive of the original while adding their own touches to the production.
The track also draws attention to the cyclical nature of influence within the heavy metal genre. Metallica was inspired by Diamond Head in their early days, incorporating some of Diamond Head’s melodic approach to riff-writing, and with this cover of “No Remorse,” Diamond Head pays tribute to the aggression and innovation that Metallica brought to thrash metal in the early 80s. It’s a perfect inclusion in this list of Top 10 Covers of Metallica Songs, showcasing both bands’ impact on each other and on the wider metal scene.
Lyrically, “No Remorse” reflects the bleakness and nihilism of war, with lines like “No mercy for what we are doing” and “We don’t care what it meant” illustrating the song’s focus on senseless violence and destruction. Diamond Head’s cover captures this energy, emphasizing the song’s themes with powerful instrumentation and a modern production sound. Their version is a respectful yet fresh take on the Metallica classic, marking a full-circle moment in the intertwined histories of both bands.
Read More: Top 10 Diamond Head Songs
# 8 – Ride The Lightning – Halestorm
Halestorm’s cover of Metallica’s “Ride the Lightning” stands as a powerful tribute to the legendary track that originally appeared on Metallica’s 1984 album of the same name. The song, known for its intense themes of capital punishment and existential dread, was given a fresh take by Halestorm on their ReAniMate 3.0: The CoVeRs eP, released in 2017. Led by frontwoman Lzzy Hale’s dynamic vocals and supported by the band’s hard-hitting instrumentation, Halestorm brings a new energy to the Metallica classic while staying true to its thrash roots.
Originally recorded by Metallica at Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen with producer Flemming Rasmussen, “Ride the Lightning” was a defining moment for the band, signaling their evolution from raw thrash metal to a more complex and ambitious sound. The song was inspired by a passage in Stephen King’s The Stand, reflecting the harrowing narrative of a man on death row awaiting execution in an electric chair. Metallica’s original version is filled with complex riffs and aggressive drumming, creating a frantic and ominous atmosphere, which Halestorm faithfully recreates while adding their own signature sound.
In Halestorm’s rendition, the intensity of the song remains intact, but Lzzy Hale’s powerful vocals lend a unique flavor to the track. Guitarist Joe Hottinger expertly recreates the iconic riffs of James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett, while drummer Arejay Hale and bassist Josh Smith provide a solid rhythm section that drives the song forward. Halestorm’s approach emphasizes the emotional weight of the lyrics, particularly in the chorus where Lzzy Hale’s soaring voice echoes the anguish of the condemned protagonist.
By including “Ride the Lightning” on their ReAniMate 3.0 EP, Halestorm once again demonstrates their versatility and ability to interpret classic rock and metal songs with respect and originality. This cover is not just a tribute to Metallica, but also a statement of Halestorm’s deep connection to the heavy metal genre. The band’s ability to breathe new life into the track makes it a fitting opening for this list of the Top 10 Covers of Metallica Songs.
Read More: Arejay Hale of Halestorm: 11 Albums That Changed My Life
# 7 – Sad But True – The HU
The HU’s cover of Metallica’s “Sad But True” adds a new and intriguing layer to the 1993 single, blending the heavy, brooding tones of the original with the band’s unique brand of Mongolian folk metal. Originally released as the fifth single from Metallica (also known as “The Black Album”), “Sad But True” quickly became a defining track for the band, showcasing their shift toward a slower, heavier sound. The HU’s 2020 cover pays homage to Metallica’s classic while incorporating the band’s signature Mongolian instrumentation and throat singing, creating a fusion that resonates with both heavy metal and world music fans alike.
The HU’s interpretation of “Sad But True” stands out due to their use of traditional Mongolian instruments, such as the morin khuur (horsehead fiddle) and the tovshuur (Mongolian lute), as well as their deep, guttural throat singing. This gives the song a primal, earthy quality that contrasts with Metallica’s original, while still maintaining the crushing heaviness and intensity that made the track so iconic. The incorporation of Mongolian musical elements not only makes the cover distinct but also introduces a cultural richness, adding depth to the song’s themes of control, inner struggle, and personal darkness.
Released during a time when The HU had gained international recognition for their album The Gereg (2019), their version of “Sad But True” became an immediate hit among both metal and folk music enthusiasts. The song’s relentless, pounding rhythm and its ominous message are amplified through The HU’s use of ancient Mongolian war cries and chants, making the track feel both familiar and new at the same time. Their blend of traditional Mongolian music with modern rock and metal influences has earned The HU critical acclaim, and their cover of “Sad But True” is a perfect example of how they bridge the gap between cultural heritage and contemporary music.
# 6 – The Thing That Should Not Be – Primus
Primus’ cover of “The Thing That Should Not Be” from their Rhinoplasty EP, released in 1998, showcases the band’s ability to faithfully interpret the crushing weight and doom-laden atmosphere of Metallica’s original while injecting subtle elements of their own style. Originally from Metallica’s Master of Puppets (1986), the song is notable for its Lovecraftian horror-inspired lyrics and its slow, menacing tempo. Primus, while known for their eccentric and experimental style, delivers a surprisingly straightforward cover, highlighting their deep respect for the original track.
Les Claypool, typically known for his slap bass technique and eccentric playing style, opts for a more restrained approach in this cover, using a flange effect on his bass to create a thick, swirling sound that complements the dark and heavy tone of the song. This subtle use of effects helps maintain the ominous feel of the original while adding a layer of depth to the bass line. Larry “Ler” LaLonde stays close to Kirk Hammett’s original guitar work, maintaining the haunting melodies and heavy riffs that give the track its foreboding atmosphere. Meanwhile, drummer Bryan “Brain” Mantia provides a steady, powerful beat, mirroring Lars Ulrich’s heavy and deliberate drumming on the original.
Primus’ version of “The Thing That Should Not Be” is notable for its faithful recreation of Metallica’s original arrangement. The band does not venture into the more avant-garde territory they are often known for, instead focusing on delivering a precise and powerful rendition. Les Claypool’s vocals, typically more quirky and exaggerated, are toned down to match the serious, ominous nature of the song, staying true to the slow, crushing mood that Metallica created in the original.
Recorded in 1998 and included as part of Rhinoplasty, a collection of covers and remixes, this track stands out for its straightforward, no-frills approach. While other covers on the EP showcase Primus’ trademark eccentricity, “The Thing That Should Not Be” remains faithful to the original’s dark intensity. It highlights the band’s ability to adapt to a different style while retaining their unique identity through subtle instrumental tweaks, like Claypool’s use of flange and LaLonde’s precise guitar work.
# 5 – Disposable Heroes – Dream Theater (Live in Barcelona, 2002)
Dream Theater’s cover of Disposable Heroes from their Live in Barcelona, 2002 album pays homage to Metallica’s blistering thrash masterpiece from Master of Puppets. Known for their technical prowess and intricate musicianship, Dream Theater tackled this aggressive, politically charged track with the precision and intensity that fans expect from both the prog-metal giants and the original creators, Metallica.
Recorded during their live performance in Barcelona, Dream Theater’s rendition stays remarkably faithful to the original in terms of structure, tempo, and energy, but what sets it apart is the band’s ability to channel their progressive influences. Guitarist John Petrucci delivers a note-perfect rendition of Kirk Hammett’s iconic riffs and solos, while adding his own signature fluidity to the technically challenging parts. Meanwhile, Mike Portnoy’s drumming captures the militaristic precision of Lars Ulrich’s original performance, but with even more flair and complexity, highlighting his ability to add a progressive touch to thrash rhythms.
Vocalist James LaBrie offers a powerful vocal performance, respecting the original style of James Hetfield’s delivery, but with a cleaner, more melodic approach that contrasts the gruffness of Hetfield’s voice. This change allows the themes of war, loss, and the exploitation of soldiers—central to Disposable Heroes—to be heard with fresh ears, as LaBrie’s voice lends a slightly more theatrical feel to the performance.
Dream Theater’s live performance of Disposable Heroes is a masterclass in technical skill, yet it never loses the raw, primal energy of the original. The song’s intense lyrics about a soldier being manipulated by those in power remain as potent as ever, with Dream Theater offering their own take on the message without compromising the aggression that Metallica initially captured.
This cover is a favorite among Dream Theater and Metallica fans alike, showing how Dream Theater’s ability to adapt to various genres allows them to respect the original while still showcasing their own musical identity. It is an essential cover that blends the best of thrash and progressive metal in one electrifying live performance.
Read More: James LaBrie of Dream Theater: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
# 4 – Creeping Death – Stone Sour
Stone Sour’s cover of Metallica’s “Creeping Death” is a powerful homage to one of thrash metal’s most iconic tracks. Released as part of the Meanwhile in Burbank… EP in 2015, Stone Sour paid tribute to bands that deeply influenced their sound, with Metallica’s “Creeping Death” standing out as one of the most intense and ambitious covers on the release. The original version, which was released as the lead single from Metallica’s Ride the Lightning (1984), deals with the biblical story of the tenth plague of Egypt from the perspective of the Angel of Death. It has long been a fan favorite and is one of Metallica’s most frequently performed live songs.
Stone Sour recorded Meanwhile in Burbank… in February 2015, and it was released on April 18, 2015. The EP marked a new chapter for the band, featuring the debut of guitarist Christian Martucci and bassist Johny Chow. Their version of “Creeping Death” captures the original’s intensity but adds Stone Sour’s unique touch, especially with the vocal delivery of Corey Taylor. While Metallica’s original is defined by James Hetfield’s guttural vocals and fast-paced guitar riffing, Taylor brings a new dynamic to the song with his raw energy, giving the cover an edge that complements the EP’s overall tone. The band’s ability to stay faithful to the core of Metallica’s original while injecting their style is a testament to their musicianship.
The song’s biblical themes of vengeance and destruction are brought to life through its relentless tempo and dark lyrics. Stone Sour’s take remains faithful to the song’s thrash roots while slightly modernizing the production, courtesy of the band’s in-house production. The breakdowns and guitar solos—handled with precision by Martucci—retain the aggression and precision Metallica fans expect.
Read More: Stone Sour Songs Ranked
# 3 – Nothing Else Matters – Miley Cyrus feat Watt, Elton John, Yo Yo Ma, Robert Trujillo and Chad Smith
Miley Cyrus’ cover of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” stands out as a star-studded tribute to one of the band’s most iconic ballads. This cover, featured on The Metallica Blacklist—a compilation album celebrating the 30th anniversary of Metallica’s The Black Album—brings together an eclectic lineup of musicians from various genres. Released in 2021, this version blends the power and emotion of the original with Cyrus’ unique vocal stylings, enhanced by contributions from some of the most celebrated musicians across rock, classical, and pop music.
The original “Nothing Else Matters,” first released in 1992 on The Black Album, was a departure from Metallica’s usual thrash metal sound, offering a more introspective and melodic tone. It became one of the band’s biggest hits, cementing their mainstream success. Miley Cyrus, known for her vocal versatility and ability to cross genres, leads the charge with her commanding vocal performance. She brings raw emotional depth to the track, giving the song a modern twist while staying true to the spirit of the original.
Cyrus is joined by an impressive roster of musicians. Elton John, one of the most iconic figures in pop music, provides piano, adding a melodic richness to the track. Yo-Yo Ma, the renowned cellist, infuses the song with his signature warmth and precision, complementing the heavy guitar tones. Robert Trujillo, Metallica’s bassist since 2003, offers his experience and connection to the original track, while Red Hot Chili Peppers’ drummer Chad Smith keeps the rhythm tight and dynamic. Guitarist and producer Watt, who has worked with both pop and rock artists, produces the track, ensuring that the fusion of genres feels seamless.
The collaboration is a perfect blend of styles, from classical to heavy rock, with a strong emotional core. This rendition emphasizes the universal appeal of “Nothing Else Matters,” showing how a song originally rooted in metal can transcend genres and resonate with listeners across musical boundaries. It marks a standout moment in The Metallica Blacklist project, showcasing how artists from diverse backgrounds can come together to reimagine one of the greatest ballads in rock history.
# 2 – Don’t Tread On Me – Volbeat
Volbeat’s cover of Metallica’s “Don’t Tread on Me” was released as part of The Metallica Blacklist tribute album in 2021, marking the 30th anniversary of Metallica’s legendary The Black Album. Volbeat, a Danish rock band known for blending heavy metal, rockabilly, and punk rock, brought their distinct sound to this powerful anthem, delivering an energized and faithful rendition of the original track. Recorded at Hansen Studios in Ribe, Denmark, Volbeat’s version captures the rebellious spirit and patriotic themes embedded in Metallica’s original while injecting the band’s signature style into the performance.
Volbeat’s take on “Don’t Tread on Me” showcases their dynamic approach to metal, with frontman Michael Poulsen’s vocals standing out for their deep, resonant tone. The song retains its thrash metal roots, but Volbeat infuses it with a slight rockabilly flair, creating a fresh yet familiar sound. The production, helmed by Volbeat alongside Jacob Hansen, enhances the track’s intensity, with crisp guitar work and a solid rhythm section propelling the song forward. The band’s tight musicianship is evident, particularly in Rob Caggiano’s guitar riffs and Jon Larsen’s powerful drumming, which mirrors the original’s aggression while bringing a polished edge to the track.
Critically, Volbeat’s version was praised for staying true to the spirit of the original while adding their unique touch. They maintain the song’s militaristic feel, which references the historical Gadsden flag with its coiled rattlesnake imagery and “Don’t Tread on Me” slogan. Lyrically, the song continues to embody defiance and strength, themes that Volbeat has often explored in their own music. Their faithful yet invigorated interpretation of Metallica’s classic reflects both reverence for the original and their ability to put their own stamp on the material.
The cover fits well within the broader context of The Metallica Blacklist, where artists from diverse genres pay tribute to Metallica’s influence on rock and metal. Volbeat’s rendition highlights their versatility and further solidifies their connection to metal’s classic roots while making the song accessible to a new generation of listeners. The song did not see significant chart success individually but was part of an album that received widespread attention for its ambitious scope and the range of artists involved.
Volbeat’s version of “Don’t Tread on Me” stands as a strong opening entry in this list of Metallica covers, demonstrating the lasting impact of The Black Album on metal music and Volbeat’s ability to honor Metallica’s legacy while maintaining their own musical identity.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJMZ6OB3ofM
# 1 – Enter Sandman – Motorhead
Motörhead’s cover of Enter Sandman was recorded in 1998 specifically for the ECW Wrestling: Extreme Music compilation CD, paying tribute to the wrestling promotion and its hardcore legend, The Sandman. The track wasn’t widely released in any other format until it was rediscovered years later by fans. This version captures the essence of the classic Metallica hit but filters it through the raw, high-energy lens that Motörhead perfected over their decades-long career.
Motörhead’s interpretation retains the iconic opening riff and ominous build-up of the original, but Lemmy Kilmister’s unmistakable growling vocals give it a harsher, grittier edge. The track feels even more sinister, perfectly suited to its wrestling context. Phil Campbell’s guitar work stays true to Kirk Hammett’s original, yet it carries a dirtier, punk-infused bite that exemplifies Motörhead’s sound. Meanwhile, Mikkey Dee’s pounding drums add an additional level of intensity, ensuring the cover packs the kind of punch that would be perfect for a wrestling ring.
Lyrically, Enter Sandman delves into the themes of fear, nightmares, and a child’s descent into a world of anxiety and uncertainty—a perfect fit for the aggressive musical style of both Metallica and Motörhead. Lemmy’s gravelly delivery emphasizes the haunting nature of the lyrics, particularly in the chorus, where he bellows “Exit light, enter night” with a ferocity that brings new life to the track. The song’s themes of darkness and confrontation are made even more palpable through Motörhead’s relentless approach to the cover.
Though it was recorded for a niche audience within the wrestling world, this cover has since become a beloved rendition by fans of both bands, making it a perfect inclusion on any list celebrating the best covers of Metallica’s catalog. It also underscores the enduring legacy of Enter Sandman as one of Metallica’s most recognizable songs, while demonstrating Motörhead’s ability to put their own unmistakable stamp on anything they touch.
Top 10 Covers Of Metallica Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
