Best Heavy Metal Dance Songs
The best heavy metal dance songs maintain their heavy feel while also incorporating enough dance elements to get the listener moving. – Author: Anne Erickson, photo via Jeremy Saffer
Heavy metal isn’t the first music that one thinks of when it comes to dance music, but there are certainly some great heavy metal dance songs. Actually, it’s safe to say that heavy metal is probably one of the very last genres that comes to mind in terms of music to get the dance floor packed. But, it doesn’t have to be that way.
Metal is a very diverse genre, which is really evidenced in the many subgenres of metal music. So, there are plenty of metal songs that, dare we say, are danceable and hot. In that spirit, Audio Ink Radio is getting into its best heavy metal dance songs, so buckle up and get ready to hit the dance floor.
Heavy Metal Dance Songs
Five Finger Death Punch, “Under And Over It”
Five Finger Death Punch teeter between metal and hard rock and often rule the mainstream rock chart, but 2011’s “Under and Over It” is one of their heaviest songs and falls more into the metal category. This song’s pounding, driving rhythms make it great for dancing. It’s brutal-sounding, though, so it might not make it onto the dance floor at your best friend’s wedding.
In This Moment, “Adrenalize”
In This Moment is a metal band that isn’t afraid to incorporate electronics into their music, and that’s apparent on “Adrenalize.” The song has a strong electronic backbone and fast-paced rhythm, which coupled with lead vocalist Maria Brink’s explosive vocals make it dance-friendly in a very metal way.
Judas Priest, “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin'”
If you’re looking for a more classic-sounding metal song that works for dancing, Judas Priest and “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin'” fits the bill. This song’s steady, driving drums make this one of their more dance-happy numbers, and it’s a catchy song, which doesn’t hurt.
Mastodon, “Curl of the Burl”
While Mastodon are known more for their groovy tunes than dance songs, “Curl of the Burl” is a special number that begs the listener to get up and dance. The track, off 2011’s “The Hunter,” is one of their most commercial, if one can call Mastodon commercial at all, and has a catchy beat that is fit for dancing.
Powerwolf, “Dancing with the Dead”
Powerwolf totally brings together heavy metal and fun, over-the-top dance-metal music. “Dancing with the Dead” offers plenty of colorful synths, big melodies and repetitive vocals, plus fantastic beats, making it a danceable number.
Rob Zombie, “Living Dead Girl”
So many Rob Zombie songs are great for dancing, but “Living Dead Girl” takes the cake. This song’s crunchy electronic sounds are purpose-made for the dance floor. This is a really recognizable song, too, which makes it a favorite when it comes up in a playlist.
Skindred, “GIMMIE THAT BOOM”
Skindred, in general, has some great, danceable music, because their brand of metal incorporates reggae beats, which are great for dancing. The band’s reliance on rhythm, in general, to move ahead their songs makes them a great band to crank on the dance floor. Try “GIMMIE THAT BOOM,” a fun tune off their 2022 release, “Smile.”
Now that we’re through some of the greatest heavy metal dance songs, for some classic metal sounds, check out Audio Ink Radio’s tally of the best metal songs from the ’70s.
- Best Heavy Metal Dance Songs - February 1, 2025
- Contenders for the Ultimate Thrash Metal Album - January 25, 2025
- Underrated Songs from the ’80s - January 19, 2025
