Metallica Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

OneMetallica6rank/position

Metallica: One (Official Music Video)

Metallica, a heavy metal band immensely popular in Japan as well, has produced numerous masterpieces, some of which carry an anti-war theme.

Among them, I’d like to highlight “One.” This song was modeled after the protagonist of the film “Johnny Got His Gun,” and, following the film’s storyline, it portrays an anti-war message.

Although it’s an anti-war song based on a work of fiction, its content is just as serious as anti-war songs focused on current events.

Be sure to check it out.

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Ryo

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WhiplashMetallica7rank/position

Japanese translation: Metallica – Whiplash

When it comes to American heavy metal, Metallica immediately comes to mind.

This is their song “Whiplash,” released in 1983.

“Whiplash” means “muchi-uchi” (whiplash injury) in Japanese.

Headbanging—the familiar motion of moving your head up and down at rock and heavy metal concerts—can actually cause whiplash if you overdo it.

The song carries Metallica’s gratitude to their fans: “Thanks for always headbanging so hard you get whiplash!” While it’s great to express thanks directly through lyrics, showing appreciation by getting fired up together and sharing a great time is another wonderful way to do it.

Very Metallica, isn’t it?

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Yoimachi Jēn

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72 SeasonsMetallica8rank/position

Metallica: 72 Seasons (Official Music Video)

Metallica, the reigning kings of the world’s most successful heavy metal bands.

Their latest album, 72 Seasons, is a message-driven work that warns how past experiences can shape present actions.

The title track in particular focuses on the various traumas and influences encountered during the first 18 years of life, conveying a deep sense of introspection.

From the intro riff, the energetic performance explodes, and James Hetfield’s intensely emotional vocals make a strong impression.

There are songs reminiscent of past albums as well as punk rock–styled tracks, showcasing the band’s musical diversity.

Packed with wisdom gained through self-exploration, this tour de force is a must-listen for Metallica fans.

Fade To BlackMetallica9rank/position

Fade To Black

A song by Metallica, an American metal band often called the most successful metal band in the world, with total album sales of 120 million copies worldwide.

It appears on their second album, Ride the Lightning, released in 1984, and is a number that masterfully contrasts beautiful acoustic guitar arpeggios with heavy distorted guitar riffs.

In the guitar solo heard in the outro, you can enjoy superb, dynamic melodies that respect the song’s atmosphere—melancholic phrases alongside melodious speed picking.

It’s a beautifully cool guitar solo that we highly recommend even to those who feel uneasy about the metal genre.

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Hoshino Takashi

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(Anesthesia) – Pulling TeethMetallica10rank/position

[Anesthesia] –Pulling Teeth (Remastered)

Even if you know the name Metallica, you might assume they’re a heavy metal band that doesn’t do instrumental tracks.

The piece introduced here, “(Anesthesia) – Pulling Teeth,” is actually a bass solo by Cliff Burton, Metallica’s early member and legendary bassist who propelled the band with his innovative style before tragically dying in an accident.

It appears on their landmark debut album, Kill ’Em All, and the songwriting credit lists Cliff himself as the sole composer.

The fiercely distorted bass tone delivers an impressively aggressive and cool sound, so even if you don’t usually listen to metal, if you’re a bassist, this is a track you should hear at least once!

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KOH-1

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