Recommended hard rock and heavy metal

An introduction to Western heavy metal: the masterpieces that changed the history of metal

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Music producer, composer, vocal coach, keyboard playerKei Takahata
From around 1995 to 2000, he built experience as a composer and producer at a major label, then moved to the United States. In Los Angeles, he studied vocalization and singing under top voice trainer Elizabeth Sabine, mastering the so-called Hollywood vocal method she advocated. After returning to Japan, he trained and produced a variety of singers, earning high praise for his direction that maximized the appeal of both the songs and the vocalists. In a collaboration video with Guild’s vocalist ryuichi, he handled keyboard performance, vocal direction, and sound production. (Passed away in 2025)

The heavy metal genre has countless subgenres, and its breadth is so vast that even devoted metal fans often have very different tastes.

Some people say, “I like metal, but death metal is a bit much,” while others are only interested in the extreme side of metal, and some can enjoy any kind of metal.

That diversity is part of what makes it so fascinating.

If you’re just getting into metal, you might not know where to start.

In this article, we’ll introduce some recommended classics and popular tracks for metal beginners!

We hope you enjoy this wide-ranging lineup that not only features staple heavy metal, but also spotlights subgenres that showcase metal’s possibilities.

Intro to Western Heavy Metal: The iconic songs that changed metal history (31–40)

The World Is YoursArch Enemy

ARCH ENEMY – The World Is Yours (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

The World Is YoursArch Enemy

This is a popular song by a melodic death metal band from Sweden.

It’s a track that showcases their signature blend of melodic guitars and intense shouted vocals, resulting in a masterpiece where elements of melodic power metal and death metal harmonize beautifully.

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In My DreamsDokken

Dokken – In My Dreams (Official Music Video)

In My DreamsDokken

A song by the metal band Dokken, formed in the U.S.

in 1979 and centered around vocalist Don Dokken.

It begins with beautiful choral work, followed by a catchy metal-style guitar riff with palm muting.

The sleek guitar solo is both technical and mindful of the song’s flow, really amping up the energy.

With its pop-leaning melodies and standout harmonies, it’s an accessible track that even metal newcomers should find easy to listen to.

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Hoshino Takashi

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DownfallExodus

EXODUS – Downfall (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

DownfallExodus

This is a track by a thrash metal band that enjoys high popularity in the United States.

The song is notable for its heavy guitar riffs driven by their distinctive guitar sound, and I consider it an important classic in the thrash metal genre.

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Countdown to ExtinctionMegadeth

Megadeth – Countdown To Extinction (Live At The Fox Theater/2012)

Countdown to ExtinctionMegadeth

Despite being the title track of their fifth album, this is a curious song that isn’t very well known—perhaps because it’s placed around the middle of the album and has a subdued, mid-tempo feel.

Dave Mustaine’s quiet, restrained vocals amplify the song’s eeriness.

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PsychosocialSlipknot

Slipknot – Psychosocial [OFFICIAL VIDEO] [HD]

PsychosocialSlipknot

A track by Slipknot, the large metal band whose members all wear masks and jumpsuits.

Parts like samplers and turntables are used effectively, making it more than just a heavy number.

The contrast between ferocious screamed vocals and melodic singing is addictive, resulting in a richly expressive song with plenty of highlights.

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Hoshino Takashi

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