Heavy metal and country music are not a match made in heaven. To the majority of music fans, they seemingly hold nothing in common and juxtapose each other in a plethora of different ways. However, that has not stopped some of the most decorated heavy-metal bands from covering some of country music’s biggest hits.
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These covers aren’t highly coveted, as the combination of the two genres might seem a bit off-putting. Although, if you are a music fan who can appreciate even the wildest of combinations, then these might be for you. So, here are three heavy metal bands covering some iconic country music hits.
“These Boots (Are Made For Walking)” by Megadeth
Originally recorded and released by Nancy Sinatra, “These Boots (Are Made For Walking)” is arguably one of the first songs that created the pop-country genre. Given that it was released in 1966, the song has become an integral part of the generation. Thanks to its acclaim, the song has also rarely been reimagined. However, leave it to Megadeth to take on the challenge and flip the song on its head.
Megadeth has covered the song live numerous times. However, it wasn’t until June of 1985, that the band decided to release the song as a single. Frankly, the song is nearly not recognizable, but that is where the beauty resides—In its complete reimagining.
“The Thunder Rolls” by All That Remains
Of course, everyone knows this song belongs to Garth Brooks. Released in 1990, Brooks peaked in the charts at No. 1 thanks to this country pop single. It is one of the most notable songs in Brooks’ expansive catalog, and consequently, it can become a little bit redundant. So, if you want to shake it up, listen to the version created by All That Remains released on their album, Madness.
All That Remains’ rendition of the song does uphold some of the original structure. However, they saturate Brooks’ song with an overwhelming amount of drums and guitar solos that give this a new heavy metal thrashing tone. Frankly, and depending on your taste, you will either love this or hate it.
“I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” by Volbeat
In a darkly comedic way, it’s funny to think that Hank Williams never lived long enough to listen to heavy metal. That being so, what do you think his perspective on this cover would be? There is no way to truly know, but context clues aren’t pointing in the most positive direction.
Regardless of Williams’ perspective on the cover, heavy metal band, Volbeat turns this country hit into a bonified headbanger. Nothing about Volbeat’s cover echos Williams’ message of melancholy and loneliness. Although, it does recreate the song in a rather upbeat fashion. Again, with this one, you’re either going to love it or hate it.
Photo by Michael Uhll/Redferns
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