Legendary Rock musician Dave Grohl picks his favorite metal and rock songs. From punk rock bands to Nirvana, from Nirvana to Foo Fighters, he played a crucial role in the bands he participated in. In this article, we will look at his favorite songs that inspire him.
Born on January 14, 1969, in Warren, Ohio, Dave Grohl‘s passion for music became prominent at an early age. Starting as a drummer, he played in various punk rock bands and showed his skills before joining Nirvana in 1990. Little did he know that this critical moment would push him into the spotlight and forever change the background of rock music.
Grohl’s entry into Nirvana marked a turning point in his career and music. With the release of the iconic album “Nevermind” in 1991, Nirvana started the grunge movement, capturing the hearts and minds of a generation. Grohl’s powerful drumming and dynamic stage presence played a crucial role in defining the band’s sound and aesthetic. After the tragic death of Kurt Cobain in 1994, Nirvana disbanded, leaving Grohl at a crossroads.
In the face of this immense loss, he directed his creative energy into his own music and formed the Foo Fighters in 1994. Foo Fighters quickly gained praise for their dynamic sound, blending alternative rock, punk, and post-grunge elements. Grohl stepped out from behind the drum kit to take on the frontman role, showcasing his versatility and proving himself as a talented songwriter and vocalist.
Since its inception, the Foo Fighters have enjoyed tremendous success, releasing hit albums such as “The Colour and the Shape,” “There Is Nothing Left to Lose,” and “Wasting Light.” Their music resonates with audiences worldwide, characterized by Grohl’s powerful vocals, infectious melodies, and relatable lyrics. The band’s energetic live performances have become legendary, solidifying their status as one of the most acclaimed rock acts of the 21st century.
In addition to his work with the Foo Fighters, Grohl has engaged in various collaborations and side projects, demonstrating his versatility and musical prowess. As a drummer, he contributed to Queens of the Stone Age, infusing their sound with his energy.
Grohl also joined forces with Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age and John Paul Jones of Led Zeppelin to form the band Them Crooked Vultures, delivering a mix of hard rock and alternative vibes that captivated audiences.
Besides his musical efforts, Grohl launched into filmmaking with the 2013 documentary “Sound City.” This project celebrated the art of analog recording in the digital age and allowed Grohl to explore his passion for storytelling and filmmaking. Through “Sound City,” he showcased his ability to seamlessly transition between different artistic mediums, further cementing his status as a multi-talented creative force.
Dave Grohl’s impact on rock music extends far beyond his musical accomplishments. His genuine and down-to-earth persona has endeared him to fans worldwide, while his work ethic and unwavering dedication to his craft inspire aspiring musicians. Grohl’s storytelling prowess and ability to connect with audiences have made him a beloved figure in the music industry.
Dave Grohl’s Favorite Metal and Rock Songs of All Time
Dave Grohl recently shared his top 12 metal songs in an interview, showing which songs excite him. These songs serve as anthems for countless music fans around the world. Let’s take a closer look at Dave Grohl‘s picks:
What kind of music does Dave Grohl listen to?
- “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” – Iron Butterfly
- “Wake Up Dead” – Megadeth
- “Breakin’ The Law” – Judas Priest
- “Piranha” – Exodus
- “Highway Star” – Deep Purple
- “Stand Up & Shout” – Dio
- “Hog Leg” – The Melvins
- “Black Dog” – Led Zeppelin
- “Master Of Puppets” – Metallica
- “Symptom Of The Universe” – Black Sabbath
- “Raining Blood” – Slayer
- “Ace Of Spades” – Motörhead
1. “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” – Iron Butterfly
First on his list is “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” by Iron Butterfly. This ultimate rock classic commences with a whirlwind of electric organs, brilliant keys, deadly drum strikes, and hypnotic strings. Clocking in at a staggering 17 minutes, the uncut version of this song is pure rock and roll Nirvana.
The song’s meaning is straightforward. The subject of “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” is love, a concept that can be as confusing as the song’s title. Despite its short lyrics, the music expresses so much with few words. It is an affirmation of the narrator’s affection for a significant other.
2. “Wake Up Dead” – Megadeth
Next up is Megadeth‘s “Wake Up Dead,” a powerful thrash metal hymn. Filled with aggressive guitar riffs, rapid solos, and Dave Mustaine‘s characteristic growling vocals, this song is a furious declaration of protest and showcases Megadeth’s superb musicianship.
This song is about a man having an affair with another woman and sneaking into his home since he knows his wife will murder him if she finds out.
3. “Breakin’ The Law” – Judas Priest
Judas Priest‘s “Breakin’ The Law” song secures its spot on Grohl’s list as a classic heavy metal anthem from their “British Steel” album. Metal fans continue to appreciate this song’s memorable chorus and iconic guitar riff, catching the soul of Judas Priest’s recognizable sound and significant influence on the genre.
Lead singer Rob Halford, who also composed the song’s lyrics, claimed that the song has some societal humor. In 1979, Margaret Thatcher became the new prime minister of the United Kingdom, and Halford didn’t like what she was doing. In his autobiography, Confess, he stated that “a lot of bad stuff was going on.”
The Midlands and the rest of the nation’s heavy industry and automakers were struggling, and there was already discussion of closing factories. Unemployment was rapidly increasing.
4. “Piranha” – Exodus
Exodus‘ “Piranha” is a massive thrash metal song. And with raw, aggressive vocals, quick-fire drumming, and forceful guitar riffs, this song thrashes and pummels. It serves as a testament to Exodus’s intense outrage and significant contribution to the development of the thrash metal genre.
5. “Highway Star” – Deep Purple
Deep Purple‘s “Highway Star” takes us on a high-octane journey through hard rock. The song begins with an iconic, lightning-fast organ intro before exploding into a driving rhythm and sizzling guitar solos. With its tremendous energy and Ian Gillan‘s powerful vocals, “Highway Star” remains a rousing anthem that encapsulates the essence of classic rock.
The band wrote “Highway Star” on board the tour bus as they traveled to a performance at the Portsmouth Guildhall (in the UK) on September 13, 1971, when they made its debut, according to Deep Purple bassist Roger Glover. After writing it, “Highway Star” replaced “Speed King” as their opening number since they were tired of it.
The song was also recorded for the Machine Head album in December 1971 after evolving through live performances.
6. “Stand Up & Shout” – Dio
Dio‘s “Stand Up & Shout” is a passionate heavy metal song from the album “Holy Diver.” This song has an anthemic chorus and Ronnie James Dio’s majestic vocals and inspires feelings of power and harmony. With its energizing guitar work and Dio’s imposing presence, “Stand Up & Shout” perfectly captures the force and passion of the legendary vocalist.
7. “Hog Leg” – The Melvins
The Melvins‘ “Hog Leg,” off their album “Eggnog,” represents a gem of sludge metal. The song’s heavy rhythms and thick, distorted guitar riffs create a hypnotic atmosphere. Showing The Melvins’ characteristic fusion of crushing heaviness and experimental sounds, “Hog Leg” leaves a lasting impact.
8. “Black Dog” – Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin‘s “Black Dog” is a timeless classic, heavy rock with blues parts. With its famous guitar riff, Robert Plant‘s powerful vocals, and John Bonham‘s precise drumming, the song delivers an addictive groove. “Black Dog” showcases Led Zeppelin’s musical talent and continues to be regarded as a classic rock anthem.
John Paul Jones, the bassist for Zeppelin, was inspired to write this song after listening to Muddy Waters‘ 1968 album Electric Mud. Electric blues with a rolling bass element and a riff that sounded like a journey were two things he was interested in trying.
Robert Plant sings about a woman in this song who appeals to his sensual desires but is not suitable for him; he tells himself he’d rather a “steady rollin’ woman” to come his way.
Dave Grohl tells why he likes “Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin as one of his favorite songs of all time:
“This is what Led Zeppelin were all about in their most rocking moments, a perfect example of their true might. John Bonham played the drums like someone who didn’t know what was going to happen next – like he was teetering on the edge of a cliff.”
9. “Master Of Puppets” – Metallica
Moving on, we meet Metallica‘s massive work of thrash metal, “Master Of Puppets.” This song shows the band’s technical mastery, featuring complex guitar harmonies, down-picking master James Hetfield‘s strong riffs, lightning-fast solos of Kirk Hammett, and elaborate song structures. It is a defining track that needs no further explanation, defining itself through its brilliance.
A fun fact about this song is that Kirk pulled the top string off the guitar’s fretboard while performing the solo to create the incredibly high siren-like sound. And, it is typically done accidentally when the high string is bent down instead of up. They kept it that way because everyone liked how it sounded on the tune.
10. “Symptom Of The Universe” – Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath‘s song “Symptom Of The Universe” showcases the band’s transition to heavier and darker tones. Combining progressive rock and doom metal elements, the song features Tony Iommi‘s famous riffs and Ozzy Osbourne‘s melancholic vocals. “Symptom Of The Universe” solidifies Black Sabbath’s reputation as a pioneer of heavy metal.
Dave Grohl talks about why he likes “Symptom of the Universe” by Black Sabbath as one of his favorite songs of all time:
“One of the first fast heavy metal riffs. Everyone would know that riff if you played it on any set-list anywhere in the world. I don’t put Sabbath on much these days, but when you hear this you realise that this is the swamp from whence much metal crawled.”
11. “Raining Blood” – Slayer
Slayer‘s “Raining Blood” from the Reign In Blood album roars onto the list as a relentless and brutal thrash metal hymn. With its frantic pace, violent guitar riffs, and angry vocals of Tom Araya, the song delivers an unstoppable blast of sound. Its ominous and powerful mood continues to make “Raining Blood” a timeless representation of extreme metal.
The theme of this song is becoming powerful enough to bring down heaven. The blood that is raining is the blood of the angel.
12. “Ace Of Spades” – Motörhead
Lastly, we have Motörhead‘s “Ace Of Spades,” a classic rock ‘n’ roll song. With its catchy rhythm, the legend Lemmy Kilmister‘s harsh vocals, and memorable guitar riffs, the music is considered one of the greatest heavy metal songs ever. “Ace Of Spades” perfectly embodies Motörhead’s raw force, rebellious spirit, and carefree attitude.
In a February 2011 interview with Mojo magazine, Lemmy Kilmister recalled writing the song, saying, “‘Ace of Spades’ is unbeatable, but I never knew it was such a good song. Writing it was just a word exercise on gambling, all the clichés. I’m glad we got famous for that rather than for some turkey, but I sang ‘the eight of spades’ for two years, and nobody noticed.”
Dave Grohl shared why he likes “Ace of Spaces” by Motörhead as one of his favorite songs of all time:
“You could delete all the other 19 records but still retain the blueprint for metal from this. This is metal DNA! Beyond the speed, the riff, and Lemmy… it’s the attitude. I first heard this on Don Kirschner’s Rock Concert before I would listened to punk rock. There was nothing glamorous about it – it was dark and mean and intense as fuck.”
As we remember Dave Grohl’s musical career, it’s clear that he embodies the spirit of rock and roll. His contributions have shaped the landscape of modern rock music, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Grohl’s ability to seamlessly navigate between punk, grunge, and alternative rock showcases his versatility and adaptability as an artist.
Dave Grohl remains steadfast in an ever-changing music industry, consistently delivering electrifying performances and timeless music. His enduring influence and passion for his craft continue to inspire countless musicians and fans, ensuring that his legacy will continue to thrive for years to come.
Dave Grohl‘s selection of favorite metal songs reflects his diverse taste and deep understanding of the genre. Each piece on his list represents a timeless anthem that has left an indelible mark on the metal music landscape. Through his musical journey with Nirvana, Foo Fighters, and various collaborations, Grohl continues inspiring musicians and fans, guaranteeing his place as a true icon in rock music.
What are your thoughts on Dave Grohl’s favorite heavy metal and rock music songs of all time? Let me know in the comment section!
The post The Top 12 Songs That Dave Grohl Named As His Favorites appeared first on Metal Shout.
