Last week, Forbes, usually known for its economic and financial analyses, revealed a list of the 38 Heavy Metal bands that, according to them, “had the most significant impact on the genre”. This unexpected initiative sparked heated discussions within the Metal community, particularly due to certain controversial positions in the rankings.
A varied, but controversial classification
Although Forbes isn’t a name one immediately associates with heavy metal, their rankings are surprisingly well-balanced. It includes bands from different subgenres, ranging from Death Metal to Progressive Metal to Nu Metal. However, as is often the case with this type of list, some rankings have divided fans.
Extreme bands like Carcass (#38), Napalm Death (#34) and Cannibal Corpse (#27) are present, showing that Forbes has not overlooked the contributions of metal’s more brutal subgenres. Likewise, iconic progressive metal names like Dream Theater (#32) and Meshuggah (#25) found their place, alongside more mainstream bands like Avenged Sevenfold (#10) and Slipknot (#7).
However, some fans wonder if artists like Danzig (#29) or Type O Negative (#20) really deserved to beat out legends like Anthrax (#26) or Sepultura (#21). Furthermore, the relatively low place of Megadeth (#16), one of the “Big Four” groups of Thrash Metal, could surprise many, especially with Korn (#14) and System Of A Down (#11) better classified.
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The top 10: undisputed legends, but surprises
The top 10 ranking includes many of the biggest names in heavy metal history. Metallica takes first place, closely followed by Black Sabbath in second and Iron Maiden in third. These three bands arguably defined the pillars of metal as we know it today, and their presence at the top of the list is difficult to dispute.
However, some top 10 rankings could cause controversy. For example, Pantera ranks fourth, ahead of Judas Priest (#5) and Ozzy Osbourne (#6), which might surprise those who consider Judas Priest one of the founders of modern heavy metal. Likewise, Tool (#9) and Avenged Sevenfold (#10) are ahead of groups like Megadeth, which could also be a matter of debate.
Essential bands for the history of metal
While this ranking might divide metal fans, it highlights the genre’s immense diversity and cultural impact. From pioneers like Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden to more modern bands like Slipknot and Deftones (#12), all of these artists have helped evolve metal through the decades, each in their own way.
Curious fans can read the detailed reasoning behind each choice directly on Forbes.com.
