Heavy metal has a long history of paying homage to its musical roots by covering classic songs and transforming them with heavier riffs, intense drumming, and powerful vocals. Some covers even surpass the originals in popularity, becoming iconic in their own right. Here’s a look at ten of the best cover songs performed by heavy metal artists.

1. Metallica – “Whiskey in the Jar” (Thin Lizzy/The Dubliners)

Metallica’s version of this Irish folk classic, popularized by Thin Lizzy, became a standout hit on their 1998 album Garage Inc. With gritty guitar work and James Hetfield’s unmistakable voice, this cover redefined the song for metal fans worldwide.

2. Judas Priest – “The Green Manalishi (With the Two Prong Crown)” (Fleetwood Mac)

Judas Priest took this eerie Fleetwood Mac track and turned it into a high-energy metal anthem, featuring soaring vocals by Rob Halford and razor-sharp guitar solos.

3. Megadeth – “These Boots” (Nancy Sinatra)

Originally a pop song by Nancy Sinatra, Dave Mustaine and Megadeth gave it a menacing, thrash-metal twist, filled with aggressive riffs and snarling vocals.

4. Slayer – “Dissident Aggressor” (Judas Priest)

Slayer paid tribute to Judas Priest by delivering a blistering version of this 1977 classic, amplifying its intensity with Tom Araya’s ferocious vocals and lightning-fast guitar work.

5. Anthrax – “Got the Time” (Joe Jackson)

Anthrax’s thrash-metal take on Joe Jackson’s quirky punk song became a fan favorite, bringing an explosive energy that made it a staple in their live performances.

6. Pantera – “Cat Scratch Fever” (Ted Nugent)

Pantera cranked up the heaviness on Ted Nugent’s rock classic, infusing it with Dimebag Darrell’s signature guitar tone and Phil Anselmo’s aggressive vocal style.

7. Iron Maiden – “Cross-Eyed Mary” (Jethro Tull)

Iron Maiden’s take on this Jethro Tull song keeps the progressive elements intact while adding their own galloping rhythm and Bruce Dickinson’s soaring vocals.

8. Motörhead – “God Save the Queen” (Sex Pistols)

Lemmy and company took the punk rock classic and made it even more rebellious, giving it a grittier, faster, and heavier edge that perfectly suited Motörhead’s raw sound.

9. Disturbed – “The Sound of Silence” (Simon & Garfunkel)

A rare instance of a metal band covering a folk classic with a hauntingly melodic approach, Disturbed’s version of The Sound of Silence became one of their biggest hits, showcasing David Draiman’s powerful vocal range.

10. Ghost – “Here Comes the Sun” (The Beatles)

Ghost transformed this Beatles classic into a dark, eerie version that contrasts starkly with the original’s upbeat nature, proving the band’s ability to reimagine songs with their own unique, gothic style.

These covers show how metal artists can take songs from different genres and inject their own intensity, making them feel fresh and exciting. Which metal cover song is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!