10 of the Oldest Metal Musicians That Are Still Alive Today

While it is easy to notice the strength and passion of the young ones, the enduring power of metal music is epitomized by the legends who have shaped its sound over the decades. 

From groundbreaking albums to unforgettable live performances, these artists have not only contributed significantly to the metal scene but also boast impressive career successes, hit songs, and records that have stood the test of time.

Everyone on this list has aged like fine wine, and while their music has served the metal scene for decades, their longevity is an added feather to their cap.

1. Alice Cooper (Born February 4, 1948)

Alice Cooper’s fusion of shock rock and heavy metal has made him a legendary figure in the music world. Known for his theatrical live shows featuring guillotines, electric chairs, and fake blood, Cooper’s influence extends beyond music into the realm of performance art. With hits like “School’s Out” and “Poison,” he has enjoyed a successful solo career after the original Alice Cooper band parted ways.

His work has garnered him a dedicated fan base and a reputation as one of the most entertaining performers in rock.

2. Tony Iommi (Born February 19, 1948)

Tony Iommi, the mastermind guitarist of Black Sabbath, is often credited as one of the primary creators of heavy metal music. His distinctive guitar riffs and downtuned sound have become the blueprint for countless metal bands that followed.

Despite losing the tips of two fingers in an industrial accident, Iommi’s resilience led him to develop a unique playing style. Black Sabbath’s monumental albums and tracks like “Iron Man” and “Paranoid” have earned them a revered spot in the annals of metal.

3. Ozzy Osbourne (Born December 3, 1948)

Ozzy Osbourne, affectionately known as the “Prince of Darkness,” first gained fame as the lead vocalist of Black Sabbath before embarking on a highly successful solo career. His distinctive voice and controversial antics have made him a household name.

With multi-platinum albums and hits like “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley,” Osbourne has solidified his status as a metal icon. Despite personal and health struggles, he continues to be a significant figure in the genre, with his contributions to metal earning him an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Black Sabbath…

4. Rob Halford (Born August 25, 1951)

Rob Halford, known as the “Metal God,” is the lead vocalist for the influential heavy metal band Judas Priest. His powerful vocal range and on-stage persona have made him one of the most iconic figures in metal. With a career spanning over five decades, Halford and Judas Priest have sold millions of records, with classics like “Breaking the Law” and “Painkiller” solidifying their place in metal history.

Halford’s openness about his sexuality has also made him an important figure in the LGBTQ+ community within the genre.

5. Mick Mars (Born April 4, 1951)

Mick Mars, the lead guitarist of Mötley Crüe, has been a driving force behind some of the most recognizable riffs in the glam metal scene. Despite battling a chronic, painful condition known as ankylosing spondylitis, Mars’s dedication to his craft never wavered. His work on hits like “Dr. Feelgood ” and “Girls, Girls, Girls’ helped propel Mötley Crüe to massive success, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time.

Even after retiring from touring, Mars’s legacy as a guitarist who defined an era remains unshaken.

6. Dave Mustaine (Born September 13, 1961)

As the frontman and founder of Megadeth, Dave Mustaine is a name that rings bells across the metal community. With his aggressive playing style and sharp songwriting, Mustaine has been instrumental in shaping the thrash metal subgenre. Despite battling health issues, he continues to perform and record, amassing a net worth that reflects how good of a career he has had.

Megadeth’s hit songs like “Symphony of Destruction” and “Peace Sells” are loved by metalheads worldwide, and the band’s numerous awards, including Grammy wins, show you just how big of an industry influence he is.

7. Bruce Dickinson (Born August 7, 1958)

As the dynamic frontman of Iron Maiden, Bruce Dickinson’s operatic vocals have become synonymous with the band’s epic sound. Dickinson’s tenure with Iron Maiden saw the release of seminal albums such as “The Number of the Beast” and “Powerslave,” elevating the band to international stardom.

Beyond his musical endeavors, Dickinson is also an accomplished author, pilot, and radio host, showcasing a versatility that matches his vocal range. His contributions to metal are immeasurable, and his presence continues to captivate audiences around the world.

8. Lita Ford (Born September 19, 1958)

Lita Ford stands out as a trailblazer in the heavy metal genre, particularly for women in a predominantly male-dominated field. Starting her career with the Runaways and then moving on to a successful solo path, Ford’s powerful guitar playing and vocal abilities shone through on tracks like “Kiss Me Deadly” and her duet with Ozzy Osbourne, “Close My Eyes Forever.”

Her influence extends beyond her music, inspiring generations of female musicians to rock just as hard as their male counterparts.

9. Joe Elliott (Born August 1, 1959)

Joe Elliott, the lead singer of Def Leppard, has been at the forefront of heavy metal since the band’s inception. With his distinctive voice, Elliott helped steer Def Leppard to global fame with albums like “Pyromania” and “Hysteria.” Hits such as “Pour Some Sugar On Me” and “Photograph” were some of the best tunes of the 80s.

Elliott’s ability to adapt and evolve with the genre has kept Def Leppard relevant for over four decades, proving that their music transcends time.

10. Al Jourgensen (Born October 7, 1959)

Al Jourgensen is a veteran in the realm of industrial metal. He is popularly known as the founder of The American industrial metal band, Ministry. His innovative approach to combining heavy metal with electronic elements forged a new path for the genre.

Albums like “The Land of Rape and Honey” have left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing countless artists and bands. Jourgensen’s relentless creativity and refusal to conform to any single style have cemented his status as a pioneer in the metal community.