Top 10 Metal Songs That Shaped the 1980s Era

The 1980s marked a defining era in music, characterized by vibrant neon aesthetics and innovative sounds. While many associate the decade with popular genres such as new wave and yacht rock, others remember it as a golden age for heavy metal. This decade not only revolutionized the metal genre but also brought it into the mainstream like never before.

Contrary to the stereotypical view of “hair metal”dominating this period, the 1980s showcased a rich tapestry of diverse subgenres. The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) emerged with significant contributions, while underground movements like thrash, death, and black metal began to gain traction. Additionally, the era was marked by a blend of styles, as metal artists experimented with hip-hop and techno, expanding the genre’s boundaries beyond the glam seen on the Sunset Strip.

10
Ozzy Osbourne – “Crazy Train”

Album: Blizzard of Ozz (1980)

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After being dismissed from Black Sabbath in 1979, Ozzy Osbourne embarked on a solo career that took off with the release of his debut album, Blizzard of Ozz, in 1980. The lead single, “Crazy Train,”not only showcased Ozzy’s enduring talent but also heralded the beginning of a solo legacy that continues to this day, set to culminate in his final concert on July 5, 2025. This track featured his unmistakable vocal style and unforgettable opening line, “All aboard!”

9
Venom – “In League With Satan”

Album: Welcome to Hell (1981)

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Formed in Newcastle in 1978, Venom played an aggressive style of heavy metal that pushed boundaries. Their 1981 debut, Welcome to Hell, was a groundbreaking work that heavily influenced the emergence of thrash, death, and black metal genres. Notably, their song “In League With Satan”contributed to the 1980s Satanic Panic, solidifying their role within this controversial narrative.

8
Iron Maiden – “The Number Of The Beast”

Album: The Number of the Beast (1982)

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Iron Maiden faced numerous challenges with lead singers until Bruce Dickinson stepped in as the frontman. His addition led to the creation of The Number of the Beast in 1982, an album that catapulted the band into superstardom. With Dickinson’s powerful vocals, Iron Maiden’s heavy metal became emblematic of the genre during this era.

7
Def Leppard – “Photograph”

Album: Pyromania (1983)

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The release of Def Leppard’s Pyromania in 1983 heralded a new wave of mainstream success for metal, thanks to hit singles like “Photograph.”This track dominated the radio, reaching impressive chart positions and paving the way for the glam and hair metal resurgence that would follow in the later years.

6
Ratt – “Round And Round”

Album: Out of the Cellar (1984)

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The glamour of 1980s hair metal, exemplified by bands like Ratt, blended glam rock with a hard edge. Los Angeles became the heart of this vibrant scene, giving rise to numerous popular artists. Ratt’s “Round and Round”exemplified this mix of style and sound, earning a place among the guilty pleasures cherished by many metal enthusiasts.

5
Faith No More – “We Care A Lot”

Album: We Care A Lot (1985)

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The 1980s were not solely defined by glam; the decade also witnessed the rise of alternative and funk-infused metal. Bands like Faith No More experimented with innovative sounds, setting trends that would influence subsequent genres. Their song “We Care A Lot,”featuring Chuck Mosley’s distinctive vocals, became a defining anthem of the alternative metal movement.

4
Slayer – “Raining Blood”

Album: Reign in Blood (1986)

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The genre of thrash metal emerged in the 1980s, characterized by bands wanting to play faster and heavier. Slayer’s Reign in Blood (1986) became a benchmark in thrash, with the title track embodying the spirit of the genre. Its influence continues to resonate across generations, evident with its presence in popular culture, including features in mainstream media like sitcoms.

3
Guns N’ Roses – “Welcome To The Jungle”

Album: Appetite For Destruction (1987)

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Though latecomers to the ’80s metal scene, Guns N’ Roses made an unforgettable impact with their debut album, Appetite for Destruction. Initially overlooked, the song “Welcome to the Jungle”exploded in popularity after MTV aired its music video, ultimately launching the band into rock stardom and ensuring their place as metal torchbearers.

2
Metallica – “One”

Album:. ..And Justice For All (1988)

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In the wake of tragedy, Metallica released the emotionally charged album …And Justice For All in 1988, featuring the impactful single “One.”Inspired by the anti-war film Johnny Got His Gun, the track resonated with listeners, contrasting the party-driven themes prevalent in glam metal, signifying the emotional depth metal could reach.

1
Mötley Crüe – “Dr. Feelgood”

Album: Dr. Feelgood (1989)

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The close of the 1980s was monumental for the metal genre, with many legendary albums being released. Mötley Crüe’s Dr. Feelgood not only marked a high point in the band’s career but also featured a title track that became their only gold single. As hair metal began to fade, the band ensured they left their mark with a final flourish of exuberant rock.

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