Nu metal is a musical genre within heavy metal that emerged in the 1990s.
It is characterized by a blend of influences from grunge, alternative, hip-hop, electronic music, and thrash metal.
Compared to traditional heavy metal, it’s more accessible, and thanks to the rise of bands like Korn and Limp Bizkit, it saw a major surge in popularity.
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Nu metal masterpieces. Recommended popular songs (1–10)
B.Y.O.B.System Of A Down
A song that sings about the business behind war.
It won a Grammy Award.
The title “B.
Y.
O.
B.” is a phrase often used on invitations to parties where alcohol isn’t provided, meaning “bring your own booze.” In this song, it’s used to mean “bring your own bombs.”
DualitySlipknot
A song that sings about hurting oneself to ease the pain and not being controlled by anyone.
It was released as a single by Slipknot in 2004.
The music video, featuring many fans, was filmed in Iowa.
In The EndLinkin Park
This masterpiece, which fuses weighty melodies and rap with emotional vocals, was released in October 2001 by the American rock band Linkin Park.
Featured on their debut album Hybrid Theory, the track captured the hearts of nu metal fans worldwide and reached No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Its striking intro begins with a piano riff, and the call-and-response between Mike Shinoda and Chester Bennington powerfully conveys the frustration of efforts that go unrewarded.
The surreal music video, featuring a massive statue standing in a desert, won Best Rock Video at the 2002 MTV Video Music Awards.
It’s a gem that deeply resonates with anyone who feels loneliness or defeat.
Spit It OutSlipknot
A shocking work released from the debut album Slipknot by the nine-member American metal band Slipknot, whose heavy guitar riffs and breakneck rap verses hit like a spike.
The unique soundscape woven by the highly aggressive instrumentation and melodious choral work has captivated countless rock fans.
Released as a single in September 2000, it reached No.
28 on the UK Singles Chart.
It was also featured in the video game Evolution Snowboarding, and at live shows the performance peaks when the entire audience jumps in unison.
Powerfully embodying anger toward restrictions and repression in music, this track is perfect for moments when you want to unleash your inner emotions.
The PotTool
A song about drug culture in America.
It carries a strong message against the hypocrisy of police and government officials.
It was released as a single in 2006 by the American rock band Tool, and the track was nominated for a Grammy in 2008.
Tear AwayDrowning Pool
A song by the rock band Drowning Pool, formed in 1996 in Dallas, Texas, USA.
It was released as a single in 2002 and reached No.
18 on the U.
S.
charts.
The track was used as the theme song for WWF’s WrestleMania X8.
DigMudvayne
With their heavy guitar riffs and thunderous basslines, American band Mudvayne carved out a new frontier in heavy metal.
Blending elements of nu metal, progressive rock, and funk, their distinctive sound powerfully conveys both defiance toward the music industry and the struggle for self-transformation.
Released in 2000 as a track from the album L.
D.
50, this song won the MTV2 Award at the MTV Video Music Awards.
Paired with psychedelic visuals, it drew widespread attention and reached No.
33 on the U.
S.
Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
It’s a must-listen not only for rock fans seeking intense sound and profound messages, but also for anyone wanting to feel the new possibilities of music.