Who are the metal bands most streamed on Spotify? Where does your favorite metal band rank? While metal may not dominate the mainstream charts as it once did, it still boasts a passionate fanbase. A recent analysis of Spotify’s top 250 most-listened-to artists revealed only two metal bands, showing the decrease in popularity of this genre in today’s music scene. However, established acts and newer voices push boundaries within that niche and connect with metal fans worldwide.
This list examines the 10 most popular metal bands based on their Spotify monthly listeners in 2024. From the pioneers who laid the groundwork for heavy music (Black Sabbath) to the ones who once put the genre on the top of the world (Metallica) to the new wave of metal that was born in the late ’90s, these bands showcase all the different sounds and styles that make metal music so excitent.
10. Rammstein: 12,7 Million (Monthly Listeners on Spotify)
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 12.7 Million
Formed in Berlin, Germany 1994, Rammstein ignited the industrial metal scene with their explosive live shows, provocative imagery, and German-language lyrics. The six-member band, consisting of Till Lindemann (vocals), Richard Kruspe (lead guitar), Paul Landers (rhythm guitar), Oliver Riedel (bass), Christoph Schneider (drums), and Christian Lorenz (keyboards), created a unique and theatrical sound that blended heavy metal with elements of electronica and industrial music.
Rammstein’s breakthrough came with their second album, “Sehnsucht” (1997), which propelled them to international fame with the hit single “Du Hast.” They’ve since released several successful albums, each pushing the boundaries of shock rock and industrial metal. Their live shows, known for their elaborate pyrotechnics and theatrical elements, have become legendary, drawing massive crowds worldwide.
Rammstein’s most recent studio album, “Zeit,” was released in 2022 and continued their tradition of thought-provoking lyrics and powerful instrumentals. They’ve also released several singles and music videos, maintaining their status as one of the most innovative and captivating bands in the world of heavy music.
9. Papa Roach: 13,1 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 13.1 Million
Exploding onto the scene in 1993 from Vacaville, California, Papa Roach grabbed the audience’s attention with raw energy and relatable angst. Led by the dynamic Jacoby Shaddix, the band features Jerry Horton (guitar), Tobin Esperance (bass), and Tony Palermo (drums). Their sound, a fusion of nu-metal, alternative rock, and punk influences, quickly resonated with a generation disillusioned with the manufactured pop music of the era.
Papa Roach’s breakthrough came with their major label debut, “Infest” (2000), which spawned the massive hit single “Last Resort,” a cathartic anthem that connected with listeners on a deep emotional level. Papa Roach’s most recent studio album, “Ego Trip,” was released in 2022 and demonstrates their ongoing growth and willingness to experiment with new sounds. They’ve also released several singles and music videos, keeping their fanbase engaged and excited for their next creative endeavor. Notably, their iconic single “Last Resort” recently surpassed one billion streams on Spotify.
8. Slipknot: 13,4 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 13.4 Million
Bursting onto the scene from Des Moines, Iowa, in 1995, Slipknot redefined heavy music with their aggressive sound, masked personas, and chaotic live shows. The nine-member band, known for their numbered jumpsuits and distinct masks, created a unique and theatrical identity that set them apart from their peers. Their music is a potent blend of heavy metal, nu-metal, and industrial influences, characterized by ferocious vocals, complex percussion, and dark, introspective lyrics.
Slipknot’s self-titled debut album in 1999 quickly earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim. Their subsequent albums, including “Iowa” (2001) and “Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)” (2004), solidified their position as one of the leading forces in heavy music. They’ve been nominated for ten Grammy Awards and won one for Best Metal Performance in 2006 for their song “Before I Forget.” Slipknot’s most recent studio album, “The End, So Far,” was released in 2022 and showcased their continued evolution and experimentation within their signature sound.
Slipknot’s impact on heavy music is undeniable. They’ve inspired countless bands with their theatrical stage presence, aggressive sound, and commitment to artistic expression. Their music has provided a cathartic outlet for millions of fans, tackling themes of anger, alienation, and inner turmoil.
7. Black Sabbath: 14,2 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 14.2 Million
Formed in Birmingham, England, in 1968, Black Sabbath is widely recognized as the pioneers of heavy metal. The original lineup consisted of Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), and Bill Ward (drums). Their distinct sound, characterized by Iommi’s down-tuned riffs and Osbourne’s haunting vocals, laid the groundwork for an entire genre.
Black Sabbath’s influence on music is immeasurable. They have released numerous groundbreaking albums, including their self-titled debut in 1970 and the iconic “Paranoid” later that year. Their music has sold millions of copies worldwide, earning them a dedicated fanbase and a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They’ve received multiple Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019.
The band expressed interest in reuniting for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, with a surprise reunion during the closing ceremony. However, later statements from Osbourne and Butler ruled out further reunions. Despite this, Osbourne collaborated with Iommi on his solo album, and there were discussions about a potential new Black Sabbath album. In 2023, a ballet inspired by the band premiered, and a box set of Tony Martin-era albums was announced for 2024.
Black Sabbath’s impact extends far beyond their commercial success. Their dark and heavy sound revolutionized rock music, paving the way for countless metal subgenres. They’ve inspired generations of musicians, from Metallica to Slipknot, shaping the realm of heavy music as we know it.
6. Bring Me The Horizon: 14,5 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 14.5 Million
In 2004, Bring Me the Horizon, originating from Sheffield, England, took the music scene by storm with its raw intensity and unrelenting energy. Led by the enigmatic Oli Sykes, the band’s lineup features Lee Malia (guitar), Matt Kean (bass), Matt Nicholls (drums), and Jordan Fish (keyboards/electronics). Their early material was rooted in metalcore and deathcore, but they’ve since ventured into a diverse range of genres, constantly reinventing themselves with each release.
The band’s ascent to fame began with their third album, “Suicide Season” (2008), establishing them as a significant player in the metal scene. They’ve since garnered numerous awards, including multiple Kerrang! Awards and Alternative Press Music Awards. Their 2013 album, “Sempiternal,” marked a significant turning point in their sound, incorporating electronic elements and soaring vocals, broadening their appeal beyond the metal community. They’ve also achieved chart-topping success in the UK and other countries, solidifying their position as one of their generation’s most famous metal bands.
Following the critically acclaimed “Post Human: Survival Horror” EP in 2020 and a series of singles, Bring Me the Horizon released their highly anticipated seventh studio album, “POST HUMAN: NeX GEn,” in May 2024. The album, a continuation of the “Post Human” series, further demonstrates the band’s evolution and willingness to experiment with diverse genres and sounds.
Bring Me the Horizon inspired a new generation of bands to embrace a fearless approach to genre-bending, proving that heavy music can be aggressive and emotionally resonant. Their open discussions about mental health and personal struggles foster a sense of community and acceptance.
5. Limp Bizkit: 15,6 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 15.6 Million
Emerging from Jacksonville, Florida, in 1994, Limp Bizkit injected raw energy into the music scene with its fusion of rap and metal. Fronted by the charismatic Fred Durst, the band features Wes Borland (guitar), Sam Rivers (bass), John Otto (drums), and DJ Lethal (turntables). Their music is characterized by Durst’s angst-ridden vocals, Borland’s innovative guitar work, and a heavy dose of attitude.
Limp Bizkit’s breakthrough came with their second album, “Significant Other” (1999), which catapulted them to mainstream success with hits like “Nookie” and “Break Stuff.” Their follow-up, “Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water” (2000), solidified their status as one of the biggest bands of the nu-metal era. They’ve been nominated for three Grammy Awards and have sold over 40 million albums worldwide.
While the band has seen lineup changes and periods of inactivity, they continue to tour and release music sporadically. Their most recent album, “Still Sucks,” was released in 2021 after a decade-long hiatus, and they are back on the road bringing their energetic live shows to fans around the world.
4. Disturbed: 20.8 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 20.8 Million
Formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 1994, Disturbed is a heavy metal band known for their aggressive sound, powerful vocals, and thought-provoking lyrics. The band consists of David Draiman (vocals), Dan Donegan (guitar, keyboards), John Moyer (bass), and Mike Wengren (drums, percussion). Their music has grown, incorporating nu-metal, alternative metal, and complex rock elements.
Disturbed has released seven studio albums, five of which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. Their 2000 debut album, “The Sickness,” is considered a classic of the nu-metal genre, featuring hit singles like “Down with the Sickness” and “Stupify.” They’ve been nominated for two Grammy Awards and have sold over 17 million albums worldwide.
Their latest studio album, “Divisive,” was released in 2023 and marked a return to their heavier sound after experimenting with more melodic elements on their previous album. They continue to be a significant force in the heavy metal scene, influencing a new generation of musicians.
3. System Of A Down: 22,6 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 22.6 million
Formed in Glendale, California, in 1994, System of a Down is known for its unique blend of metal, alternative rock, and Armenian folk music. The band members—Serj Tankian (vocals), Daron Malakian (guitar, vocals), Shavo Odadjian (bass), and John Dolmayan (drums)—bring a diverse range of influences to their music, resulting in a distinctive and eclectic sound.
System of a Down has released five studio albums, three of which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. Their 2001 album, “Toxicity,” is widely regarded as a masterpiece, featuring hits like “Chop Suey!” and “Toxicity.” The band has been nominated for four Grammy Awards and won one for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2006 for their song “B.Y.O.B.”
Despite a long hiatus, the band released two new songs in 2020, “Protect the Land” and “Genocidal Humanoidz,” which addressed the conflict in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). These songs were their first new releases in 15 years and were well-received by fans, reigniting interest in their music.
2. Metallica: 27,2 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 27.2 million
Formed in 1981 in Los Angeles, California, Metallica is one of the most iconic and influential bands in the heavy metal genre. Founding members James Hetfield (vocals, rhythm guitar) and Lars Ulrich (drums) have led the band through a career over four decades, marked by their powerful sound and intense performances.
Metallica has sold over 125 million albums worldwide and won numerous awards, including nine Grammy Awards. Their 1991 self-titled album, known as “The Black Album,” is one of the best-selling albums in history, featuring hits like “Enter Sandman” and “The Unforgiven.” 2009, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Metallica’s latest album, “72 Seasons” (2023), received critical acclaim for its return to the band’s thrash metal roots. The album’s title track and singles like “Lux Æterna” have been well-received by fans and critics alike, showcasing the band’s enduring ability to produce powerful and relevant music. Metallica is currently on tour.
Metallica’s influence on the metal genre and the music industry is immeasurable. They have inspired countless bands and musicians with their aggressive style, complex compositions, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Metallica’s music has transcended generations, and their live performances continue to draw massive crowds, solidifying their legacy as one of the greatest metal bands of all time.
1. Linkin Park: 43,1 Million
Spotify Monthly Listeners: 43.1 million
By far, the most popular metal band today, Linkin Park, was formed in Agoura Hills, California, in 1996. The band’s lineup, featuring Chester Bennington’s expressive vocals and Mike Shinoda’s rap verses, created a distinctive sound that took nu-metal to a new level.
Linkin Park’s debut album, “Hybrid Theory” (2000), is one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century, having sold over 27 million copies worldwide. The band has won two Grammy Awards, six American Music Awards, four MTV Video Music Awards, and numerous other accolades. Their fusion of genres has left a lasting impact on music.
Following Chester Bennington’s tragic death in 2017, the band has focused on honoring his memory and maintaining their connection with fans through special releases and anniversary editions of their classic albums. In 2024, they released “Papercuts,” their first career-spanning compilation album featuring 20 tracks, including the previously unreleased song “Friendly Fire” and the fan-favorite rarity “QWERTY.”
