If you’re a heavy metal fan, there’s nothing quite like the experience of a live concert. The energy, the passion, and the excitement are all unmatched. But some concerts take things to a whole new level, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and leaving fans in awe. Here are some of the most insane heavy metal concerts you have to see to believe.
1. Wacken Open Air
Wacken Open Air is one of the largest and most well-known heavy metal festivals in the world. Held annually in Germany, it features some of the biggest names in the genre and draws massive crowds from all over the globe. With multiple stages and non-stop music for several days, it’s an experience like no other.
2. Download Festival
The Download Festival, held in the UK, is another major heavy metal festival that’s not to be missed. With its massive lineup of top acts and multiple stages, it’s a true celebration of all things heavy. In recent years, it’s expanded to include festivals in other countries, including France, Spain, and Australia.
3. Ozzfest
Ozzfest is a traveling heavy metal festival that was founded by Ozzy Osbourne and his wife Sharon. It’s known for its impressive lineups of both established and up-and-coming acts, as well as its carnival-like atmosphere. With multiple stages, rides, and other attractions, it’s a must-see for any heavy metal fan.
4. Black Sabbath’s “The End” Tour
In 2016, legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath embarked on their final tour, appropriately titled “The End.” The tour featured a massive stage setup, stunning visuals, and all the classic hits from the band’s decades-long career. It was a bittersweet and unforgettable experience for fans around the world.
5. Slipknot’s “Knotfest”
Slipknot’s “Knotfest” is another heavy metal festival that’s become a major event in the genre. With its unique blend of heavy music, art installations, and other attractions, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. The festival has even spawned its own record label and fashion line.
6. Iron Maiden’s “The Book of Souls” Tour
In 2016, Iron Maiden embarked on their “The Book of Souls” tour, which featured an elaborate stage setup and stunning visuals inspired by the album’s artwork. The band played to massive crowds all over the world, cementing their status as one of heavy metal’s most beloved and enduring acts.
7. Slayer’s Final Tour
In 2018, thrash metal icons Slayer embarked on their final tour, bringing their unique brand of aggression and intensity to fans one last time. The tour featured a massive stage setup and some of the band’s most iconic songs, making it a must-see for fans of the genre.
8. Metallica’s “WorldWired” Tour
In 2017, heavy metal legends Metallica embarked on their “WorldWired” tour, which took them to stadiums all over the world. The tour featured a massive stage setup and an impressive array of pyrotechnics and other special effects, making it one of the most visually stunning concerts in recent memory.
9. Motley Crue’s Final Tour
In 2014, glam metal icons Motley Crue embarked on their final tour, which saw them playing all their classic hits for one last time. The tour featured a massive stage setup, pyrotechnics, and all the theatrics that made the band famous.
10. AC/DC’s “Rock or Bust”
In 2015, legendary rockers AC/DC embarked on their “Rock or Bust” tour, which saw them playing to massive crowds around the world. The tour featured a massive stage setup, complete with a giant inflatable Rosie, and all the classic hits that have made the band one of the most beloved in rock history.
11. Rammstein’s “Made in Germany” Tour
German industrial metal band Rammstein is known for their elaborate and often controversial live shows. Their “Made in Germany” tour, which ran from 2011 to 2013, was no exception. Featuring massive pyrotechnics, intricate stage setups, and stunning visuals, it’s a concert experience unlike any other.
12. Tool’s “Fear Inoculum” Tour
In 2019, progressive metal icons Tool embarked on their “Fear Inoculum” tour, which saw them playing to massive crowds all over the world. The tour featured stunning visuals and intricate stage setups, as well as the band’s signature blend of heavy riffs, complex rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics.
13. System of a Down’s “Wake Up the Souls” Tour
In 2015, alternative metal pioneers System of a Down embarked on their “Wake Up the Souls” tour, which marked the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. The tour featured a powerful setlist that touched on social and political issues, as well as stunning visuals and a massive stage setup.
14. Guns N’ Roses’ “Not in This Lifetime” Tour
In 2016, classic rock icons Guns N’ Roses embarked on their “Not in This Lifetime” tour, which saw them reuniting with original members Slash and Duff McKagan for the first time in over 20 years. The tour featured a massive stage setup, as well as all the classic hits that have made the band one of the most beloved in rock history.
15. Megadeth’s “Dystopia” Tour
In 2016, thrash metal legends Megadeth embarked on their “Dystopia” tour, which saw them playing to massive crowds all over the world. The tour featured a stunning stage setup, as well as the band’s signature blend of heavy riffs and socially conscious lyrics.
Have you been to any one or more of these concerts? Tell us about it!
