Christmas is just around the corner, and you know what that means - Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" will be blasting from every radio station, and your aunt will be making you listen to Bing Crosby's "White Christmas" for the umpteenth time. But, let's be real, those songs are not exactly the most...metal.
As a metalhead, you crave something a bit more aggressive, a bit more intense, and a bit more headbanging-worthy to get you in the holiday spirit. Fear not, dear metal enthusiast, for we've got you covered! Here are five Metallica Christmas songs that will make you want to throw down your horns and rock around the Christmas tree.
What's Metallica's Take on Christmas Music?
Before we dive into the list, it's worth noting that Metallica hasn't exactly been known for their Christmas music. In fact, the band has only released one official Christmas song, "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)" in 1999. However, that doesn't mean they haven't dabbled in some holiday cheer over the years. From live performances to charity singles, Metallica has shown that even the most aggressive metal bands can get into the holiday spirit.
1. "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)" (1999)
This song is Metallica's only official Christmas release, and it's a bit of an oddity in their discography. The song is a cover of the Ramones' 1989 track, and it features a much more lighthearted and humorous side of the band. With lyrics like "Merry Christmas, I don't want to fight tonight / I want to have a good Christmas, everything's alright," it's a far cry from the band's usual aggressive fare.
Why It's a Great Christmas Song
While it may not be the most traditional Christmas song, "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)" is a fun and catchy track that's perfect for getting you in the holiday mood. Plus, it's a great example of Metallica's ability to poke fun at themselves and not take things too seriously.
2. "Wonderful Christmastime" (Live at the Fillmore, 2011)
In 2011, Metallica played a series of shows at the Fillmore in San Francisco, and during one of the performances, they busted out a cover of Paul McCartney's "Wonderful Christmastime." The result is a fun and upbeat take on the holiday classic, with James Hetfield's vocals bringing a new level of energy to the track.
Why It's a Great Christmas Song
Metallica's take on "Wonderful Christmastime" is a great example of the band's ability to put their own spin on a classic song. With its catchy synthesizers and driving rhythm, it's a perfect addition to any holiday playlist.
3. "Sleigh Ride" (Live at the Fillmore, 2011)
Another live performance from the Fillmore shows, Metallica's take on "Sleigh Ride" is a fun and heavy rendition of the holiday classic. With its driving rhythm and aggressive vocals, it's a perfect example of how metal can be used to get you in the holiday spirit.
Why It's a Great Christmas Song
Metallica's "Sleigh Ride" is a great example of the band's ability to take a traditional Christmas song and turn it into something entirely new and aggressive. It's a perfect addition to any holiday playlist, and it's sure to get you headbanging around the Christmas tree.
4. "Jingle Bell Rock" (Live at the Fillmore, 2011)
Another live performance from the Fillmore shows, Metallica's take on "Jingle Bell Rock" is a fun and upbeat rendition of the holiday classic. With its catchy melody and driving rhythm, it's a perfect addition to any holiday playlist.
Why It's a Great Christmas Song
Metallica's "Jingle Bell Rock" is a great example of the band's ability to take a traditional Christmas song and turn it into something entirely new and aggressive. With its catchy melody and driving rhythm, it's a perfect addition to any holiday playlist.
5. "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" (Live at the Apollo Theater, 2016)
In 2016, Metallica played a show at the Apollo Theater in New York City, and during the performance, they busted out a cover of "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." The result is a fun and upbeat take on the holiday classic, with James Hetfield's vocals bringing a new level of energy to the track.
Why It's a Great Christmas Song
Metallica's take on "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" is a great example of the band's ability to put their own spin on a classic song. With its catchy melody and driving rhythm, it's a perfect addition to any holiday playlist.
Encourage Engagement:
So, there you have it - five Metallica Christmas songs that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. Whether you're a die-hard metalhead or just looking for something new to add to your holiday playlist, these songs are sure to deliver. So go ahead, throw down your horns, and rock around the Christmas tree with Metallica!
FAQ Section:
What is Metallica's most popular Christmas song?
+Metallica's most popular Christmas song is likely "Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight)", which was released in 1999.
Has Metallica ever performed a Christmas concert?
+Yes, Metallica has performed several Christmas concerts over the years, including a 2011 show at the Fillmore in San Francisco.
Can I find Metallica's Christmas songs on streaming platforms?
+Yes, many of Metallica's Christmas songs are available on streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music.