Heavy Metal Fans Will Love These Classic Christmas Songs

Looking for some holiday tunes that will appeal to your metalhead friends? Check out this list of classic Christmas songs with a heavy metal twist!

“Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra

This song was originally written and performed by the progressive rock band Savatage in their album Dead Winter Dead. It is a metal ballad that tells the story of people gathered in war-torn Sarajevo, celebrating Christmas Eve in the midst of shelling and sniper fire. The song has been covered by many artists, but the most popular version is by Trans-Siberian Orchestra, who included it in their first album, Christmas Eve and Other Stories.

“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” by Metallica

Formed in 1981, Metallica is one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time. The group has sold over 125 million records worldwide and has won nine Grammy Awards. They are also known for their charitable work, having raised millions of dollars for various causes.

One of the things that makes Metallica so special is their ability to cross over into different genres. They have released covers of songs by a wide range of artists, from Lady Gaga to Bob Dylan. In 2009, they even collaborated with the late pop legend Michael Jackson on a re-recording of his classic song “Beat It.”

At Christmastime, Metallica fans can enjoy a special treat: the band’s cover of the traditional carol “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” Released as a single in 2007, the song features all four members of the band playing together in a powerful and moving performance.

“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Megadeth

This holiday season,metalheads can celebrate with these 10 classic Christmas songs re-recorded by some of their favorite bands. From Megadeth’s take on “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” to Slayer’s rendition of “What Child is This?,” these tracks will get you headbanging all the way through Christmas dinner. So crank up the volume and get ready to rock around the Christmas tree!

“O Come, All Ye Faithful” by Anthrax

One of the earliest examples of a metal band covering a Christmas song is Anthrax’s version of “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” The new arrangement, which was included on the band’s 1987 album, I’m the Man, added some thrash elements to the traditional tune. Anthrax’s take on the song is sure to get any headbanging metal fan in the holiday spirit.

“Little Drummer Boy” by Slayer

This metal Christmas song is sure to please any fan of the genre. The heavy guitars and drums give the classic Christmas tune a unique twist that is sure to get your head banging.

“Jingle Bells” by Motorhead

This metal version of the Christmas standard is sure to get your head banging. The heavy guitar riffs and speed of the drums will definitely get you in the holiday spirit.

“Run Rudolph Run” by Twisted Sister

Sure, holiday music can get a bit repetitive and, let’s be honest, a little bit corny. But there’s one band that knows how to breathe new life into even the most tired Christmas carol: Twisted Sister. The heavy metal legends put their own hard-rocking spin on “Run Rudolph Run,” infusing the classic holiday tune with screaming guitars and shredding solos. It’s the perfect way to get headbanging this holiday season.

“Deck the Halls” by Manowar

This pesudo-traditional Christmas carol was composed by Manowar singer Joey DeMaio in 1984 and released as part of the band’s third album, Hail to England. It has since become a staple of their live performances, particularly during the holiday season. The lyrics are based on an old English poem, but with a few metal-themed twists. For example, instead of referring to holly and ivy, the song talks about “metal horns” and “leather wings.” And instead of festive ringing bells, you’ve got “thundering drums.” It’s all very Metal Christmas.

“Silent Night” by Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden’s “Silent Night” is a classic Christmas song that has been covered by many artists over the years. The band’s version of the song was released on their 1982 album, “Powerslave.” The song is a heavy metal take on the traditional Christmas carol, and it features some of Iron Maiden’s signature guitar work.

“Auld Lang Syne” by Megadeth

Auld Lang Syne is a holiday classic that gets a heavy metal makeover in this version by Megadeth. The lyrics are true to the original, but the fast-paced guitars and drums give it a completely different feel. If you’re looking for something a little different this holiday season, this is the perfect choice.