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Last updated on October 31, 2025, updated monthly. |
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 1 . Candlebox - Far Behind“Far Behind,” released in 1993, is an emotional tribute by Candlebox to Andrew Wood of the band Mother Love Bone, a close friend of the group who died of an overdose. Frontman Kevin Martin, often associated with the Seattle grunge scene and bands like Pearl Jam, delivers a heartfelt performance. “Far Behind” became a major success and remains a classic 90s rock anthem. The music video is directed by Nick Egan. Writer(s) : Peter Andrew Klett, Kevin Colin Martin, Scott John Ric Hard Mercado, Bardi David Martin Publisher(s) : Wc Music Corp Featured on the 1993 album Candlebox
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 2 . Limp Bizkit - Behind Blue Eyes“Behind Blue Eyes” is a cover of The Who’s famous song, released in 2003. Limp Bizkit, led by Fred Durst, also known for his collaborations with artists like Method Man, adds a nu-metal twist to this introspective ballad, highlighting the duality of human emotions. The song was also featured in the animated film "The Angry Birds Movie." The music video is directed by Fred Durst. Writer(s) : Peter Dennis Townshend Publisher(s) : Fabulous Music Ltd Featured on the 2005 album Results May Vary
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 3 . Ministry - N.W.O. [New World Order]Released in 1992, "N.W.O." by Ministry is an iconic industrial metal track. It critiques the George H. W. Bush administration using samples from his speeches and excerpts from the film Apocalypse Now. The track reached No. 11 on the US Alternative Airplay chart. The video features scenes of police violence and chaos, including a depiction of a woman dressed as the Statue of Liberty being beaten by police, reflecting the intense political message of the song. "N.W.O." appears in the soundtrack of the 1992 film Cool World by Ralph Bakshi and the video game Need for Speed: The Run. The music video is directed by Peter Christopherson. Writer(s) : Paul G Barker, Allen D Jourgensen Publisher(s) : Lovolar Music, Spurburn Music, Warner Tamerlane Pub Corp Featured on the 1992 album Psalm 69: The Way to Succeed and the Way to Suck Eggs
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 4 . Anthrax - Bring Tha Noize"Bring Tha Noize" is a groundbreaking collaboration between the rap group Public Enemy, with Chuck D on vocals, and the metal band Anthrax providing the instrumental backing. Released in 1991, this track marked a unique fusion of rock and rap, breaking down musical genre barriers. "Bring Tha Noize" is a cover of the original Public Enemy track "Bring the Noise" featured in the soundtrack of the film "Less than Zero." Writer(s) : James Henry Iii Boxley, Eric T Sadler Publisher(s) : Your Mother S Music Inc, Terrordome Music Publishing Llc, Shocklee Music, Songs Of Reach Mc, Nfp Music When Rap Meets Rock 
Linkin Park & Jay Z - Numb/EncoreThis 2004 collaboration blends Jay Z's rap with Linkin Park's rock sound, creating a memorable fusion.
Run DMC & Aerosmith - Walk This WayA groundbreaking 1986 track that merged hip hop and rock, revitalizing Aerosmith's career and boosting Run DMC's fame.
Gorillaz - Clint EastwoodReleased in 2001, this song features Damon Albarn's band and rapper Del the Funky Homosapien, mixing rock and hip hop.
The Maccabees & Roots Manuva - Empty VesselsA collaboration that brings together The Maccabees' indie rock with Roots Manuva's rap for a gritty reworking of the original track.
R.E.M. - Radio SongThis 1991 track features R.E.M. with rapper KRS-One, combining rock with a critique of commercial radio.
Coldplay & Jay Z - Lost+Jay Z adds a rap verse to Coldplay's "Lost", blending his hip hop style with the band's alternative rock sound.
Arctic Monkeys & Dizzee Rascal - Temptation Greets You Like Your Naughty FriendA 2007 collaboration featuring Dizzee Rascal's rap on a B-side track by Arctic Monkeys.
Blondie - RaptureReleased in 1980, Blondie’s track features Debbie Harry rapping, introducing mainstream audiences to hip hop.
Public Enemy & Anthrax - Bring the NoiseA 1991 collaboration that merges Public Enemy's rap with Anthrax's heavy metal sound, creating a high-energy track.
Cypress Hill & Tom Morello - Rise UpA powerful track that combines Cypress Hill's hip hop with the guitar riffs of Rage Against the Machine's Tom Morello. Featured on the 1991 album It Takes A Nation Of Millions To Hold Us Back
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 5 . Kittie - BrackishA cherished fan favorite and concert staple, "Brackish" by Kittie, released in 1999, emerges as an anthem of raw resilience and unbridled femininity. The track delves into themes of emotional turmoil, isolation, and the quest for inner strength. Under the meticulous production of Garth Richardson, it boasts formidable riffs and raw energy. Following Tanya Candler's exit, bassist Talena Atfield fortified the classic lineup. The music video is directed by Juli Berg. Writer(s) : Mercedes Lander, Morgan Lee Lander, Fallon Bowman Publisher(s) : Peer International Ltd (Canada), Kittie Inc Featured on the 2000 album Spit
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 6 . Kittie - CharlotteInspired by the book "Rites of Burial" by Tom Jackman and Troy Cole, detailing the macabre crimes of serial killer Robert Berdella who resided on Charlotte Street, "Charlotte" by Kittie was unveiled in 2000. Morgan Lander, the lead vocalist, conveyed that the harrowing narrative profoundly impacted her. The video features a symbolic fallen angel. Bassist Tanya Candler, who appears in the video, departed the band post-recording "Spit," and was succeeded by Talena Atfield. The music video is directed by Lisa Rubisch. Writer(s) : Mercedes Lander, Morgan Lee Lander, Fallon Bowman Publisher(s) : Peer International Ltd (Canada), Kittie Inc Featured on the 2000 album Spit
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 7 . P.O.D. - AliveReleased on July 31, 2001, P.O.D.'s "Alive" spearheads their second major-label album, "Satellite," blending earnest introspection with post-grunge flair. Peaking at No. 41 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 19 in the UK, the track amasses widespread acclaim amidst heavy MTV and MTV2 rotation, dominating 2001's video airwaves. Sonny Sandoval pens lyrics reflecting paternal epiphany; the success propels "Satellite" to triple platinum status. A 4K remastered video resurfaces on October 9, 2020. The music video is directed by Francis Lawrence. Writer(s) : Victor Antonio Sandoval Publisher(s) : Cd Baby Beta Featured on the 2001 album Satellite
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 8 . Taproot - Again And AgainReleased in 2000, "Again and Again" leads off Taproot’s debut album Gift with just enough nu-metal crunch to rattle the shelves at Sam Goody. Written by the band and produced by Ulrich Wild, it swings between restrained, melodic verses and full-throttle choruses that don’t ask for permission before blowing the doors off. A heavy presence on rock radio and MTV, the track nudges Taproot straight into early 2000s metal rotation, sneakers first. Writer(s) : Jimmy Jam, Derek Boland, Terry Steven Lewis Publisher(s) : Taproot Publishing Featured on the 2000 album Gift
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 9 . Deftones - Change [In The House Of Flies]Often hailed as one of the band's most iconic and commercially successful tracks, "Change (In the House of Flies)" by Deftones, released in 2000, is renowned for its dark and hypnotic ambiance. With its metaphor-laden lyrics, the track delves into themes of transformation and loss, underscored by heavy and atmospheric instrumentation. Terry Date, who has worked with Soundgarden and Pantera, adds to the track's distinctive sound. The music video is directed by Liz Friedlander. Writer(s) : Chi Cheng, Abran Cunningham, Camilo Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter Publisher(s) : Wc Music Corp, My Rib Is Broke Featured on the 2007 album White Pony
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 10 . P.O.D. - Sleeping AwakeReleased in 2003, "Sleeping Awake" by P.O.D. serves as the lead single from "The Matrix Reloaded" soundtrack. The song intricately explores themes of consciousness and spiritual awakening, mirroring the philosophical depths of the Matrix trilogy. The video juxtaposes two versions of the band, one within the Matrix and the other in the real world, emphasizing the duality of these realms. Jason Truby makes his debut as a guitarist in this video, following the departure of Marcos Curiel. "Sleeping Awake" ascended to No. 14 on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks. The music video is directed by Marc Webb. Writer(s) : Noah C Bernardo Jr, Paul J Sandoval, Mark Traa Daniels Publisher(s) : Sony Atv Harmony Featured on the 2003 album The Matrix Reloaded Soundtrack
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 11 . Paul Oakenfold - Starry Eyed Surprise“Starry Eyed Surprise,” released in 2002, is a single by Paul Oakenfold featuring Shifty ShellShock, the rapper from Crazy Town. The song blends elements of electronic music and rap, creating a festive and euphoric atmosphere. Oakenfold, a DJ renowned for his collaborations with Madonna and U2, brings his expertise in music production. Writer(s) : Harry Nilsson, Andrew Ling Gray, Seth Brooks Binzer, Fred Neil, Paul Mark Oakenfold Publisher(s) : Universal Music Publishing Limited (Gb), Chrysalis-Music-Ltd, Arlovol Music, Mute Song Ltd Featured on the 2002 album Bunkka
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 12 . Faith No More - Digging The Grave“Digging the Grave,” released in 1995, is an energetic track by Faith No More, a pioneering alternative rock band. The song features powerful guitar riffs and dynamic vocals by Mike Patton, reflecting the band’s evolution towards a rawer, more direct sound. The song was also featured in the television series Beavis and Butt-Head. The music video is directed by Marcus Raboy. Writer(s) : Michael Andrew Bordin, Bill Gould, Michael Allen Patton Publisher(s) : Big Thrilling Music Featured on the 1995 album King for a Day... Fool for a Lifetime
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 13 . Deftones - Be Quiet and Drive [Far Away]Embodying themes of escape and the longing for freedom—a recurring motif in the band's repertoire—"Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" by Deftones, released in 1997, stands out as one of the band's quintessential tracks, showcasing their unique fusion of metal and ethereal soundscapes. The production, helmed by Terry Date, renowned for his work with Pantera and Soundgarden, imbues the track with remarkable sonic depth. The music video is directed by Frank W. Ockenfels III. Writer(s) : Stephen Carpenter, Abran Cunningham, Chi Cheng, Camilo Chino Moreno Publisher(s) : My Rib Is Broke, W B Music Corp Featured on the 1997 album Around the Fur
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 14 . Lostprophets - Rooftops [A Liberation Broadcast]Released in 2006, "Rooftops (A Liberation Broadcast)" leads the charge on Lostprophets’ third album, Liberation Transmission. Written by frontman Ian Watkins with the rest of the band and produced by Bob Rock, it wraps alternative rock melodies around clenched-fist lyrics of youthful rebellion and emotional catharsis. Not shy about making some noise, the track crashes into the UK Top 10 and floods rock radio and music TV with its shout-it-from-the-hills urgency. The music video is directed by Ryan Smith. Writer(s) : Lee Gaze, Ian David Kars Lake Watkins, Richard James Oliver, Stuart Richardson, Michael Richard Lewis Publisher(s) : Emi April Music Inc, Goonies Never Say Die Featured on the 2006 album Liberation Transmission
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 15 . Papa Roach - Last ResortBuilt around a riff conceived on an old piano in a Sacramento rental, "Last Resort" signals Papa Roach's scorched-earth debut. Written by Jacoby Shaddix and Tobin Esperance, it chronicles the mental state of a friend’s suicide attempt, cloaked in angsty vocals and nu-metal abrasion. Aired first via a wrestling film’s soundtrack, it later claws its way to number 57 on the Billboard Hot 100, thrashing its way into early-2000s discontent. The music video is directed by Marcos Siega. Publisher(s) : Viva La Cucaracha Music, Reservoir Media Music, Bmg Gold Songs Featured on the 2000 album Infest
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 16 . Linkin Park - Points Of AuthorityLinkin Park's "Points of Authority," the fourth track on their 2000 debut "Hybrid Theory," evolves from a demo titled "Oh No," later featured on the "LP Underground X: Demos" CD in 2010. Producer Don Gilmore pushed the band, as they struggled for months to create its chorus, with Mike Shinoda reworking Brad Delson's guitar riff into a fragmented, signature sound. Planned single releases were shelved, but a promotional video surfaced via the "Frat Party At The Pankake Festival" DVD. Its remix, "Pts.OF.Athrty," was the sole single from 2002's "Reanimation," hitting No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart. The music video is directed by Nathan "Karma" Cox. Writer(s) : Joseph Hahn, Robert Bourdon, Chester C Bennington, Brad Delson, Mike Shinoda Publisher(s) : Zomba Enterprises Inc, Zomba Songs Inc Featured on the 2000 album Hybrid Theory
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 17 . Deftones - My Own SummerDelving into themes of isolation and disillusionment, "My Own Summer (Shove It)" by Deftones, released in 1997, is characterized by its heavy guitar riffs and lyrics expressing frustration and alienation. Produced by Terry Date, known for his work with Pantera and Soundgarden, the music video for "My Own Summer (Shove It)" features the band performing on a platform above water, encircled by sharks—a unique summer setup indeed. The music video is directed by Dean Karr. Writer(s) : Chi Cheng, Abran Cunningham, Camilo Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter Publisher(s) : My Rib Its Broke Music, Wc Music Corp Featured on the 1997 album Around The Fur
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 18 . Linkin Park - Somewhere I BelongReleased in 2003, “Somewhere I Belong” by Linkin Park fuses nu-metal with melodic rock, crafting a narrative of inner turmoil and self-reclamation. Its raw energy is driven by layered guitar riffs juxtaposed with introspective lyrics shaped by the band’s shared struggles. Joe Hahn’s surreal music video amplifies the song’s dreamlike meditation on finding clarity, blending fragmented visuals with themes of self-discovery. While peaking at #32 on the Billboard Hot 100, its dominance on the Alternative Songs chart highlights its resonance within the alt-rock sphere. The track’s emotional core and polished production remain connected to the ethos of the early 2000s, balancing aggressive intensity with reflection. The music video is directed by Joseph Hahn. Writer(s) : Robert G Bourdon, Joseph Hahn, Chester C Bennington, Michael Kenji Shinoda, Bradford Philip Delson, David Michael Farrell Publisher(s) : Chesterchaz Publishing, Nondisclosure Agreement Music, Pancakey Cakes Music, Big Bad Mr Hahn Music, Zomba Songs Inc, Rob Bourdon Music Featured on the 2003 album Meteora
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 19 . Nine Inch Nails - The Perfect DrugReleased in 1997, “The Perfect Drug” is a song by Nine Inch Nails, written for the soundtrack of David Lynch’s film "Lost Highway" starring Bill Pullman and Patricia Arquette. The song is notable for its electronic beats influenced by drum and bass and jungle music, and its dark lyrics characteristic of Trent Reznor’s style. The video is visually striking, inspired by gothic and Victorian aesthetics. The music video is directed by Mark Romanek. Writer(s) : Daniel Patrick Lohner, Charles A Clouser, Chris Alan Vrenna, Michael Trent Reznor Publisher(s) : Unknown Publisher, Hypercube Music Featured on the 1997 album Lost Highway
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 20 . Creed - One Last BreathWritten by Scott Stapp over three weeks and recorded at J. Stanley Productions Inc in Ocoee, Florida, "One Last Breath" doesn’t rush its existential crisis. Released in April 2002 as the third single off Creed’s third album, *Weathered*, it arrives weighed down but not entirely hopeless. The lyrics sift through past missteps and reach—somewhat dramatically—for the hand of a friend who might still be listening. Emotions run high on both vocals and instrumentals, which the band describes as a faithful rendering of what the song says it feels. Chart-wise, it climbs to number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 and lands comfortably inside the top 40 across Canada, New Zealand, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and Germany. The music video is directed by Dave Meyers. Writer(s) : Mark Tremonti, Scott Stapp, Maria Elena Kiriakou, Efthivoulos Theoharous Publisher(s) : Reservoir Media Music, Tremonti Stapp Music Featured on the 2001 album Weathered
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ABOUT NU METALWhat is Nu MetalNu Metal stands out with its unique instrumentation that combines elements from multiple musical genres. Guitars are often down-tuned compared to other metal subgenres, producing a heavier and darker sound. Percussive bass lines are also highlighted, playing an essential rhythmic role. Another striking feature is the use of DJ turntables for scratching and sampling, adding a hip-hop dimension to the genre. Nu Metal is known for its eclectic mix of vocal styles. Vocalists often switch between rap, clean singing, and aggressive screams or growls. This hybrid vocal style allows for great expressiveness, enabling swift transitions from calm and melodic passages to intense and brutal sections. Nu Metal has often been a controversial genre, receiving mixed reviews from both traditional metal fans and music critics. Some metal purists see Nu Metal as a dilution of the genre, criticizing its hip-hop influences and more commercial orientation. Others, however, praise Nu Metal for its innovation and openness to varied influences. Debates about the legitimacy of Nu Metal persist, but it is undeniable that this genre has played a crucial role in the evolution of modern music by breaking down genre barriers and reaching a broader audience. What Nu Metal Talks AboutNu Metal songs frequently tackle introspective and personal themes. Lyrics often address anger, frustration, alienation, rebellion against authority, and internal struggles. These subjects resonate particularly with teenagers and young adults, offering a form of catharsis and identification, influencing their worldview and behavior. Song structures can vary, but they often include catchy choruses, verses driven by powerful guitar riffs, and instrumental or vocal bridges that heighten dramatic tension. Nu Metal: Influences on Other CulturesThe commercial success of Nu Metal bands in the 1990s and 2000s significantly impacted popular music. By introducing an innovative fusion of metal, hip-hop, funk, and electronica, Nu Metal paved the way for similar experiments in other genres. Nu Metal notably influenced fashion, especially in the 1990s and 2000s. Fans often adopted a style inspired by Nu Metal artists, including baggy clothes, cargo pants, band t-shirts, chains, and metal accessories. Brands like JNCO thrived during this period partly due to this trend. Visual elements like Slipknot’s masks also influenced gothic and alternative cultures. Tattoos and body piercings became increasingly popular among Nu Metal enthusiasts. Many Nu Metal artists sported visible tattoos and piercings, inspiring their fans to follow these practices as a means of personal expression and belonging to a specific subculture. Nu Metal was frequently used in film soundtracks and video games, contributing to the intense and energetic atmosphere of these media. For instance, Nu Metal bands were featured in the soundtracks of movies like “Queen of the Damned” and video games such as “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater” and “Madden NFL,” reinforcing the connection between music and popular culture. Nu Metal was also closely associated with extreme sports culture, such as skateboarding, BMX, and motocross. Extreme sports videos and televised competitions often used Nu Metal tracks as background music, capturing the energy and rebellion associated with these sports. |
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