12 of the Easiest Metal Songs to Play and Sing

We all love singing our favorite metal tunes. For some, Metallica’s thrash riffs and Randy Rhodes’ enduring legacy energize them, and others get inspired playing some Metal tunes. Most metal enthusiasts often dream of playing killer solos on a top-notch Fender or Gibson guitar. If you feel the same, here’s a list of 12 easy metal songs for you. Let’s sing and play them together.
In crafting a list of the 12 Easiest Metal Songs to Play and Sing, we’ve considered factors such as simplicity of riffs, repetitive chord progressions, and clear vocal melodies that make these songs accessible for beginners. The ranking is designed to guide lovers of metal music and even aspiring metal musicians through a progressive journey, starting with the more complex songs before introducing the more straightforward tracks.
Why Are These Metal Songs Easy To Sing?
Each song on this list has been chosen for its ease of playability and singability, making them perfect for those just starting out on their Metal journey. Whether it’s the iconic four-note riff of “Smoke on the Water” or the memorable chorus of “Iron Man,” these songs have stood the test of time and continue to be favorites for players of all skill levels
12. Smoke on the Water (Machine Head) – Released in March 1972
Connecting with Deep Purple’s ‘Smoke on the Water’ is something nearly everyone experiences. Released in 1973, the song’s captivating charm surpasses time, solidifying its status as a timeless masterpiece in rock and heavy metal. Crafted by Richie Blackmore, the iconic melody, rooted in a four-note blues scale, secures its place among the most glorious musical compositions.
This legendary rock anthem has left an everlasting impact on music history. Richie Blackmore’s guitar expertise shines through the scale riff. The lyrics vividly narrate a real-life incident at Montreux Casino during a Frank Zappa concert, giving birth to the title phrase. The track’s raw energy and infectious groove have made it a staple in rock and heavy metal, celebrated worldwide for its powerful guitar-driven sound and compelling narrative. ‘Smoke on the Water’ stands as a cultural phenomenon, influencing music enthusiasts across generations.
11. Iron Man (Paranoid) – Released in September 1970
Black Sabbath’s impact is undeniable in any metal or hard rock mix. “Tony Iommi’s iconic riffs and Ozzy Osbourne’s brilliance entry into heavy metal” – a shared experience for many. “Iron Man,” from the second studio album “Paranoid,” shines as one of Black Sabbath’s defining tracks. Rolling Stone Magazine acknowledged its brilliance, placing “Iron Man” in their ‘500 Greatest Songs of All Time’ list. This recognition underscores Black Sabbath’s lasting influence and musical excellence. To exclude this powerhouse from a metal or hard rock collection is to overlook a cornerstone of the genre’s evolution.
“Iron Man,” part of Black Sabbath’s 1970 “Paranoid” album, is a heavy metal gem. Crafted by Tony Iommi, its iconic guitar riff is etched in hard rock history. Ozzy Osbourne’s haunting vocals, alongside Geezer Butler’s bass and Bill Ward’s drums, create a potent and atmospheric sound. The lyrics tell of a man time-traveling to witness an apocalypse, only to be ignored upon his return. “Iron Man” merges dark themes with memorable music, solidifying its status as a heavy metal classic.
10. Back in Black (Back in Black) – Released in July 1980
AC/DC’s “Back in Black” goes beyond being just a song; it embodies the iconic dance moves, especially those of lead guitarist Angus Young. Watching him play the guitar while executing intricate dance steps remains a marvel. The track itself, “Back in Black,” exudes an irresistible rhythm that sparks grooving. Unquestionably, it stands as AC/DC’s most renowned song, leaving an indelible mark on the world of rock music. The sheer energy and infectious vibe of this iconic piece make it a timeless favorite for music enthusiasts globally.
“Back in Black,” released in 1980 as the title track of AC/DC’s album, pays tribute to the late Bon Scott, the band’s former lead singer. Brian Johnson, Scott’s successor, delivers powerful vocals that complement the electrifying instrumentation. The song kicks off with a distinctive guitar riff, setting the stage for its high-energy, hard-rock sound. The driving rhythm, combined with Angus Young’s iconic guitar work, establishes an unmistakable sonic identity. Celebrated for its infectious groove, memorable lyrics, and a chorus that has become a rallying cry for rock enthusiasts.
9. One (…And Justice for All) – Released in August 1988
“One” by Metallica, the album’s final single from “And Justice for All,” stands as a pinnacle in the band’s catalog. As part of the big four bands of metal, Metallica not only showcased the song at the Grammy Awards but also clinched the Grammy for Best Metal Song in 1990. The mesmerizing guitar riff, crafted by Kirk Hammett, catapulted “One” into international acclaim, solidifying its place as one of the most revered tracks in metal history. Beyond its musical brilliance, “One” is distinguished by emotive and thought-provoking lyrics, delving into themes of war and the human condition. The dynamic fusion of Metallica’s instrumental prowess and profound storytelling elevates “One” to legendary status, leaving an enduring impact on metal enthusiasts worldwide. Its recognition at the Grammy Awards further cements its significance in the pantheon of influential metal songs.
8. Crazy Train (Blizzard of Ozz) – Released in September 1980
Ozzy Osbourne, known as the Prince of Darkness, is a hero for metalheads, not for bragging but for genuine admiration. His first solo track, “Crazy Train,” lives up to its name, embodying an intensity synonymous with Ozzy’s iconic legacy. The song is inseparable from the late guitarist Randy Rhoads, whose ‘crazy’ riff defines and immortalizes it in the metal realm. More than just a song, “Crazy Train” stands as one of the most celebrated metal anthems, showcasing the collaborative genius of Osbourne and Rhoads.
“Crazy Train” delivers an intense and electrifying experience. Closely associated with the late guitarist Randy Rhoads, whose ‘crazy’ riff is iconic, the song is immortalized as one of the most celebrated metal anthems. Beyond its musical prowess, “Crazy Train” testifies to the collaborative genius of Ozzy Osbourne and Randy Rhoads, leaving an indelible mark on the metal landscape. With intense energy, memorable guitar work, and Osbourne’s distinctive vocals, “Crazy Train” remains a classic and a cornerstone in the history of heavy metal.
7. Walk (Vulgar Display of Power) – Released in February 1992
“Walk” by Pantera, from the groundbreaking album “Vulgar Display of Power,” is a tribute to the band’s influence in metal. Pantera, often labeled a dark horse, has a dedicated fanbase, especially honoring late guitarist Dimebag Darrell. The distinctive riff, In a 12/8 time signature, immortalizes Dimebag Darrell’s impact on metal music. “Walk” is synonymous with Pantera’s signature blend of aggression and groove. Beyond its musical significance, “Walk” extends its legacy to cinema, appearing in films like “Triple Frontier” and “Sonic the Hedgehog 2.” This enduring song solidifies Pantera’s influential role in the metal landscape.
“Walk” by Pantera isn’t just a metal powerhouse; it has a unique tie to sports. Many sports teams and athletes adopt it as a motivational anthem before games. The song’s aggressive and driving sound makes it a go-to for athletes getting in the zone. Beyond music, “Walk” transcends into sports, serving as a source of inspiration in the athletic world.
6. Ace of Spade (Ace of Spades) – Released in November 1980
“Ace of Spades” by Motorhead is an iconic heavy metal anthem that solidifies the band’s legendary status. Led by the guitar legend Lemmy Kilmister, synonymous with Motorhead, this masterpiece is celebrated for its raw energy and aggressive sound. Recognized as one of Motorhead’s most popular and technically sound pieces, “Ace of Spades” earned critical acclaim. The song’s relentless pace and powerful riffs showcase Motorhead’s signature style, making it a standout in the heavy metal genre. Its cultural impact is undeniable, dominating the top of the Billboard chart for an impressive 13 consecutive weeks. “Ace of Spades” remains a timeless classic, celebrated not only for its musical prowess but also as a symbol of Motorhead’s enduring influence on the metal scene.
“Ace of Spades” has an interesting connection to gaming culture. The song has been featured in various video games, becoming a popular choice for soundtracks in racing and action games. Its fast-paced and energetic vibe aligns well with the intensity of gaming, making it a favorite among gamers. The iconic riff and powerful vocals of Lemmy Kilmister in “Ace of Spades” have become synonymous with adrenaline-pumping moments in virtual worlds, creating a unique intersection between rock music and gaming culture.
5. Sober (Undertow) – Released in April 1993
“Sober” invites us to relive the early live performances of Tool, the iconic American heavy metal/hard rock band. Penned around 1987, the track found its home in their debut album, “Undertow.” Beyond its inception, “Sober” left an enduring impact by securing the 3rd position on the Billboard (US) Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart. This early success served as a precursor to Tool’s influential journey in the realms of rock and alternative music.
A timeless piece from the early days of Tool, “Sober” showcases the band’s ability to blend intricate musicality with profound lyrics. Its inclusion in the debut album marked the beginning of Tool’s ascent into the hearts of rock and alternative music enthusiasts. This recognition solidified Tool’s position as a formidable force in the world of heavy metal and hard rock. The enduring appeal of the song continues to resonate with fans, establishing it as a cornerstone in Tool’s impressive discography.
4. Bad Company (Bad Company) – Released in June 1974
“Bad Company” by Five Finger Death Punch blends hard rock with metal-infused guitar riffs, creating a distinct fusion of genres. Despite being hailed as one of the most popular heavy metal/hard rock songs, it intriguingly didn’t achieve significant success in the US but found immense popularity across Europe. The song’s boundary-defying composition contributes to its enduring appeal and international recognition. Rooted in hard rock, “Bad Company” stands out with its infusion of metal elements, setting it apart from traditional tunes of the genre. Despite its lack of substantial success in the US, the song gained widespread popularity in Europe, highlighting the global appeal of Five Finger Death Punch’s sound.
The par’doxical journey of “Bad Company,” blending genres and achieving fame internationally, speaks to its versatility and the universal resonance of its musical elements. The song remains a standout in the heavy metal and hard rock landscape, celebrated for its unique composition and widespread acclaim beyond borders.
3. Raining Blood (Reign in Blood) – Released in October 1986
“Raining Blood” by Slayer, found in the album “Reign in Blood,” is a true masterpiece in the metal genre. As one of the big four metal bands alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax, Slayer has etched its name in the annals of metal history. The song Itself is a testament to Slayer’s musical brilliance, exemplifying their ability to craft intense and iconic metal compositions. Its impact is further validated by its inclusion among the best 50 metal songs of all time by Loudwire, solidifying its status as a monumental piece in the metal canon.
This track is more than just music; it’s an embodiment of Slayer’s ferocious energy and unwavering approach to metal. With relentless aggression and intricate guitar work, “Raining Blood” stands as a timeless classic that continues to resonate with metal enthusiasts, showcasing the enduring power of Slayer’s musical legacy.
2. Rooster- Alice in Chains (Facelift) – Released in August 1990
In 1993, the American hard rock band “Alice in Chains” released the iconic song “Rooster,” leaving an indelible mark in history with a remarkable 20-week reign at the top of the Billboard chart. This track, a hallmark of the band’s discography, achieved historic significance for its consecutive 20 weeks at the pinnacle of the Billboard chart. “Rooster” is not just known for its powerful sound and poignant lyrics; it’s a timeless classic that solidified Alice in Chains’ enduring impact on the hard rock scene. The song’s popularity and chart-topping success underscore its significance in the band’s musical legacy, establishing it as a standout and influential piece in the history of hard rock.
1. Whole Lotta Love (Led Zeppelin II) – Released in October 1969
“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin is a must-have for any guitar enthusiast’s playlist, standing tall among the most iconic songs from this legendary band. Hailed as a hard rock genius by music experts, I’ve included it here for its celebrated guitar solo and unmatched tunes. The intrigue deepens when you realize that this powerhouse is crafted with just three chords. Jimmy Page, the band’s guitarist, crafted the sound during recording, infusing the song with distinctive psychedelic effects. The iconic “reverse echo” technique, featuring a backward guitar solo in the middle section, enhances the song’s unique and experimental vibe. This creative use of studio techniques adds an extra layer of intrigue, shaping the sonic landscape of “Whole Lotta Love.”