Metallica: 10 Epic Song Covers You Need to Hear
Metallica is one of the most influential and successful metal bands of all time, with a legacy that spans over four decades. Their songs have inspired countless artists from different genres to pay tribute to their legacy. In this article, we will explore 10 epic Metallica song covers that showcase the band’s influence and the creativity of the artists who have covered their songs.
Early Years and Influences
Metallica was founded in 1981 by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich, two young metal enthusiasts who shared a passion for heavy metal music. They soon recruited Kirk Hammett and Cliff Burton to complete their lineup, and released their debut album, "Kill ‘Em All," in 1983. The album was a breakthrough for the thrash metal genre, combining the speed and aggression of punk rock with the complexity and technicality of metal.
Success and Influence
Metallica went on to release several more albums that cemented their status as the leaders and innovators of the genre. Albums such as "Ride the Lightning," "Master of Puppets," and "…And Justice for All" are considered some of the greatest metal albums of all time. Metallica’s influence can be seen in many other bands, including thrash metal, heavy metal, and even punk rock.
Metallica Song Covers: 10 Epic Examples
Here are 10 epic Metallica song covers that showcase the band’s influence and the creativity of the artists who have covered their songs.
1. Nothing Else Matters by Apocalyptica
Apocalyptica is a Finnish cello metal band that has covered many Metallica songs over the years. Their version of "Nothing Else Matters" is one of their most popular and beautiful renditions. They use four cellos to create a haunting and emotional atmosphere that captures the essence of the song.
2. Enter Sandman by Motörhead
Motörhead is a legendary British rock band that influenced many metal bands, including Metallica. Their cover of "Enter Sandman" is a tribute to their friends and fans. They inject their signature speed and energy into the song, making it more raw and aggressive.
3. Master of Puppets by Trivium
Trivium is an American metal band that draws heavy influence from Metallica. Their cover of "Master of Puppets" is a homage to their idols and mentors. They perform the song with precision and passion, matching the intensity and complexity of the original.
4. Ride the Lightning by Halestorm
Halestorm is an American rock band that has a female lead singer, Lzzy Hale. Her powerful and versatile voice adds a new dimension to "Ride the Lightning." She sings the song with intensity and conviction, while the band delivers a fast and furious performance.
5. For Whom the Bell Tolls by Sabaton
Sabaton is a Swedish power metal band that focuses on historical themes and battles. Their cover of "For Whom the Bell Tolls" is a fitting choice, as the song is based on a novel by Ernest Hemingway about the Spanish Civil War. They add their own epic and bombastic style to the song, making it more dramatic and heroic.
6. Seek and Destroy by Testament
Testament is an American thrash metal band that is part of the "Big Four" of the genre, along with Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax. Their cover of "Seek and Destroy" is a nod to their peers and rivals. They play the song with skill and fury, adding some extra solos and riffs.
7. Fade to Black by Disturbed
Disturbed is an American nu metal band that has a distinctive sound. Their cover of "Fade to Black" is a surprising and refreshing take on the classic ballad. They add some electronic and industrial elements to the song, creating a dark and futuristic vibe.
8. One by Korn
Korn is an American nu metal band that is one of the pioneers of the genre. Their cover of "One" is a tribute to one of their main influences, Metallica. They play the song with respect and reverence, while adding their own touch of groove and heaviness.
9. Welcome Home (Sanitarium) by Bullet For My Valentine
Bullet For My Valentine is a Welsh metalcore band that has been influenced by Metallica and other thrash metal bands. Their cover of "Welcome Home (Sanitarium)" is a tribute to one of their favorite songs. They play the song with skill and power, while adding some modern and melodic touches.
10. Battery by Machine Head
Machine Head is an American groove metal band that has been influenced by Metallica and other thrash metal bands. Their cover of "Battery" is a tribute to one of their favorite albums, "Master of Puppets." They play the song with skill and intensity, while adding some extra solos and riffs.
Conclusion
These 10 epic Metallica song covers showcase the band’s influence and the creativity of the artists who have covered their songs. From Apocalyptica’s haunting cello rendition of "Nothing Else Matters" to Machine Head’s intense and aggressive cover of "Battery," these covers demonstrate the enduring and universal appeal of Metallica’s music. Whether you are a fan of Metallica or not, you can appreciate the diversity and creativity of these covers, and discover new ways of enjoying their songs.
FAQs
- What is Metallica’s most famous song?
Metallica’s most famous song is probably "Enter Sandman," which was released in 1991 and has become one of the band’s signature tracks. - Who is the lead singer of Metallica?
The lead singer of Metallica is James Hetfield, who has been the band’s frontman since its inception in 1981. - What is the best Metallica album?
This is a matter of opinion, but many fans consider "Master of Puppets" to be Metallica’s best album, released in 1986. - How many albums has Metallica released?
Metallica has released 10 studio albums, including "Kill ‘Em All," "Ride the Lightning," "Master of Puppets," and "…And Justice for All," among others.
