The Most Popular Nu Metal Band, Ranked

Choose the band you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 06:45
In the eclectic world of music genres, Nu Metal has carved out a unique space, merging elements from various styles to form its distinctive sound. This genre, combining aggressive rock with the rhythmic subtleties of hip-hop, has given rise to a legion of bands, each bringing their own flavor to the fans. Identifying the most popular band in this category is not only fun but helps new listeners find a starting point to dive into this intense music style. Voting for your favorite band is not just a way to support them; it's also a method for influencing the community's current tastes and trends. As votes accumulate, they reflect changes in fan preferences and spotlight rising talents within the scene. By participating, everyone gets a say in shaping the landscape of Nu Metal, contributing to a living, fan-driven musical history.

What Is the Most Popular Nu Metal Band?

  1. 1
    46
    votes
    Considered one of the pioneers of nu metal, Linkin Park has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has won two Grammy Awards. Their blend of rap, rock, and electronic music has made them one of the most popular nu metal bands of all time.
    Linkin Park is a renowned American rock band known for their unique blend of alternative rock, nu metal, and electronic music. They gained significant popularity in the early 2000s with their debut album 'Hybrid Theory' and continued to evolve their sound in subsequent albums. Recognized for their emotional lyrics, raw energy, and memorable melodies, the band has a large fanbase worldwide.
    • Genres: Alternative rock, nu metal, electronic rock
    • Debut Album: Hybrid Theory (2000)
    • Career Years: 1996 - present
    • Album Sales: Over 100 million worldwide
    • Grammy Awards: 2 wins and 11 nominations
  2. 2
    23
    votes
    Formed in 1993, Korn has been credited with popularizing the nu metal genre. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1994, was a commercial and critical success, and they went on to release several more successful albums.
    Korn is a well-known Nu Metal band that emerged in the early 1990s. They are recognized for pioneering the genre and gaining widespread popularity with their unique blend of heavy metal, alternative rock, and hip hop influences. Korn's music is characterized by heavy guitar riffs, intricate bass lines, aggressive vocals, and introspective lyrics that often explore themes of pain, trauma, and personal struggles.
    • Debut Album: Korn (1994)
    • Commercial Success: Multiple platinum and gold albums, including Follow the Leader (1998) and Issues (1999)
    • Grammy Awards: Two-time Grammy winners for 'Freak on a Leash' (1999) and 'Here to Stay' (2002)
    • Influential Tracks: 'Blind,' 'Freak on a Leash,' 'Falling Away from Me'
    • Lineup Changes: Brian 'Head' Welch temporarily left in 2005 but returned in 2013
  3. 3
    37
    votes
    Known for their unique blend of metal, punk, and Armenian folk music, System of a Down has sold over 40 million records worldwide. They are known for their politically charged lyrics and high-energy live performances.
    System of a Down is a popular Nu Metal band known for their unique blend of heavy metal, alternative rock, and Armenian folk music. The band gained significant commercial success and critical acclaim with their socially and politically charged lyrics, often addressing topics such as war, genocide, and government corruption.
    • Lead Vocals: Serj Tankian
    • Guitar and Backing Vocals: Daron Malakian
    • Bass and Backing Vocals: Shavo Odadjian
    • Drums and Backing Vocals: John Dolmayan
    • Genre: Nu Metal, Alternative Metal, Alternative Rock
    System of a Down in other rankings
  4. 4
    24
    votes
    With their distinctive masks and intense live shows, Slipknot has become one of the most popular nu metal bands of all time. They have won a Grammy Award and have sold over 30 million records worldwide.
    Slipknot is an American metal band known for their aggressive and intense sound, characterized by a fusion of heavy metal, alternative metal, and nu-metal. They gained significant mainstream success in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
    • Formed in: 1995
    • Origin: Des Moines, Iowa, United States
    • Genre: Nu-metal, alternative metal, heavy metal
    • Number of band members: 9
    • Famous songs: Duality, Psychosocial, Wait and Bleed
  5. 5
    19
    votes
    Limp Bizkit
    Tilly antoine · CC BY-SA 4.0
    Known for their rap-rock sound and controversial lyrics, Limp Bizkit has sold over 40 million records worldwide. They were one of the most successful nu metal bands of the early 2000s, and their hit single "Rollin'" is still a staple of rock radio.
    Limp Bizkit is an American Nu Metal band known for their aggressive music style that combines elements of heavy metal, alternative rock, and hip hop. They gained popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s with their energetic live performances and catchy songs.
    • Active Years: 1994-2016, 2019-present
    • Genre: Nu Metal, Alternative Rock, Rap Rock
    • Albums Released: 7 studio albums
    • Best-Selling Album: Significant Other (1999)
    • Record Label: Interscope, Flip, Geffen
    Limp Bizkit in other rankings
  6. 6
    3
    votes
    Combining elements of metal, shoegaze, and alternative rock, Deftones has been one of the most innovative and influential nu metal bands of the past 20 years. They have won a Grammy Award and have sold over 10 million records worldwide.
    Deftones is an American Nu Metal band that formed in Sacramento, California in 1988. With their distinctive sound that combines elements of metal, alternative rock, and experimental music, Deftones quickly gained popularity and became one of the most influential bands in the genre.
    • Genre: Nu Metal, Alternative Metal
    • Formation Year: 1988
    • Origin: Sacramento, California, USA
    • Members: Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Abe Cunningham, Sergio Vega, Frank Delgado
    • Albums Released: 9 studio albums
  7. 7
    6
    votes
    Papa Roach
    Ciell · CC BY-SA 3.0
    With their catchy hooks and emotionally charged lyrics, Papa Roach has become one of the most popular nu metal bands of the past 20 years. They have sold over 20 million records worldwide and have had several hit singles.
    Papa Roach is a popular American nu metal band that originated in Vacaville, California, in 1993. They gained mainstream success in the early 2000s with their hit singles like 'Last Resort' and 'Scars,' showcasing their energetic sound and emotional lyrics.
    • Formed: 1993
    • Origin: Vacaville, California, United States
    • Genre: Nu metal, alternative rock
    • Active Years: 1993 - present
    • Label: Geffen, Eleven Seven
  8. 8
    7
    votes
    Known for their aggressive sound and powerful vocals, Disturbed has sold over 16 million records worldwide. They have had several hit singles, including "Down with the Sickness" and "The Sound of Silence."
    Disturbed is an American Nu Metal band known for their aggressive sound, powerful vocals, and intense lyrical content. Formed in 1994 in Chicago, Illinois, the band has gained a massive following for their energetic live performances and chart-topping success. With their heavy guitar riffs, pounding drums, and distinct vocals, Disturbed has become one of the most influential bands in the Nu Metal genre.
    • Genre: Nu Metal
    • Formed: 1994
    • Origin: Chicago, Illinois, United States
    • Members: David Draiman (vocals), Dan Donegan (guitar), John Moyer (bass), Mike Wengren (drums)
    • Albums Released: 7 studio albums
  9. 9
    1
    votes
    Combining elements of nu metal, alternative rock, and post-grunge, Staind has sold over 15 million records worldwide. They are known for their introspective lyrics and powerful live performances.
    Staind is a popular Nu Metal band known for their emotional and introspective lyrics combined with heavy guitar riffs and melodic hooks. Their music often tackles themes of personal struggle, relationships, and inner turmoil. The band rose to prominence in the late 90s and early 2000s with hit songs like 'It's Been Awhile', 'Outside', and 'So Far Away'. Staind has influenced the Nu Metal genre with their unique blending of alternative rock, metal, and grunge elements.
    • Genre: Nu Metal, Alternative Metal, Post-Grunge
    • Formed: 1995
    • Origin: Springfield, Massachusetts, United States
    • Active Years: 1995 - present
    • Label: Flip, Elektra, Roadrunner
  10. 10
    9
    votes
    Known for their technical proficiency and unconventional song structures, Mudvayne has become one of the most respected nu metal bands of the past 20 years. They have sold over 6 million records worldwide and have won several awards for their music videos.
    Mudvayne is a popular American nu metal band known for their aggressive sound and unique visual aesthetic. The band was formed in Peoria, Illinois in 1996 and gained significant recognition in the early 2000s. They were known for their heavy, groove-based music, incorporating elements of alternative metal, industrial, and progressive rock. Mudvayne became known for their intense and energetic live performances.
    • Formation Year: 1996
    • Origin: Peoria, Illinois, United States
    • Genres: Nu metal, alternative metal, progressive metal
    • Albums Released: 6 studio albums
    • Record Label: Epic Records

Missing your favorite band?

Graphs
Discussion

Ranking factors for popular band

  1. Album sales and chart performance
    Analyze the band's album sales, including the number of albums sold, chart positions, and certifications (such as Gold, Platinum, or multi-platinum status). This indicates their commercial success and popularity among music listeners.
  2. Concert and tour attendance
    Consider the number of tickets sold, venue sizes, and frequency of the band's live shows. A popular Nu Metal band will likely have a strong live following and consistently attract large crowds at their concerts.
  3. Fan base and community engagement
    Examine the size of the band's fan base and how actively engaged the fans are. This can be determined through social media followings, fan clubs, and interactions on music forums/websites.
  4. Critical reception and awards
    Look at the Nu Metal band's critical reception, including reviews from music journalists, as well as any awards or nominations they might have received (such as Grammys or MTV Music Awards). A well-regarded band within the genre will likely have a strong critical response and accolades.
  5. Longevity and influence
    Assess how long the band has been active in the Nu Metal scene and their impact on the genre. This can be determined by evaluating their discography, any lineup changes, and their influence on other artists and bands within the scene.
  6. Media coverage and visibility
    Investigate the band's overall presence in the media, including print, online, and broadcast coverage. A popular Nu Metal band will likely have significant exposure, including interviews, articles, and documentaries about their work.
  7. Streaming and video views
    Consider the band's streaming numbers on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, as well as view counts on their music videos. These can be indicative of their overall popularity and the ongoing success of their music.
  8. Collaboration and side projects
    Analyze the band's involvement in other projects, collaborations, or guest appearances. A popular and respected Nu Metal band will likely collaborate with other well-known artists, engage in high-profile side projects, or contribute to popular media (such as soundtracks or TV appearances).
  9. Merchandise sales
    Examine the band's merchandise sales, including t-shirts, posters, and other collectibles. Popular bands will likely have strong merchandise sales and a broad range of items available to fans.
  10. Chart presence and radio airplay
    Look at the band's presence on music charts and their level of radio airplay. A popular Nu Metal band will have songs that consistently feature on national and international charts, and receive significant radio play.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Nu Metal band. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or band is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2088 views
  • 168 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each band once every 24 hours. The rank of each band is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Categories

More information on most popular nu metal band

Nu Metal is a subgenre of heavy metal that emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It blends elements of heavy metal, alternative rock, hip hop, and industrial music. Nu Metal bands often incorporate down-tuned guitar riffs, electronic beats, and rap vocals into their music. Some of the most popular Nu Metal bands include Korn, Slipknot, Linkin Park, System of a Down, and Limp Bizkit. These bands achieved mainstream success in the late 1990s and early 2000s with their unique sound and energetic live performances. Nu Metal has been a controversial genre, with some critics dismissing it as a passing fad. However, its influence on modern music cannot be denied, as many current artists cite Nu Metal bands as a major inspiration. Today, Nu Metal continues to evolve and thrive, with new bands adding their own unique spin to the genre.

Share this article