Motörhead, with their relentless energy, raw sound, and rebellious spirit, have left an indelible mark on the world of rock and metal. Their unique blend of heavy metal, punk, and rock ‘n’ roll has inspired countless bands, each capturing some aspect of what made Motörhead legendary.
In this article, we explore bands that share Motörhead’s uncompromising attitude and high-octane sound.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the genre, these bands will provide you with the same adrenaline-pumping experience that Motörhead fans have cherished for decades.
21 Heavy Metal Bands Similar to Motorhead for Your Heavy Guitar Riff Playlist
Contents
- 1 21 Heavy Metal Bands Similar to Motorhead for Your Heavy Guitar Riff Playlist
- 2 #1 Judas Priest
- 3 #2 Saxon
- 4 #3 Iron Maiden
- 5 #4 Black Sabbath
- 6 #5 Venom
- 7 #6 Anthrax
- 8 #7 Overkill
- 9 #8 AC/DC
- 10 #9 Slayer
- 11 #10 Accept
- 12 #11 Megadeth
- 13 #12 Tank
- 14 #13 ZZ Top
- 15 #14 W.A.S.P.
- 16 #15 Thin Lizzy
- 17 #16 Raven
- 18 #17 Dio
- 19 #18 Rose Tattoo
- 20 #19 Krokus
- 21 #20 Twisted Sister
- 22 #21 Exciter
- 23 Frequently Asked Questions
These bands share Motörhead’s raw, energetic approach to rock and metal, often blending fast tempos, heavy riffs, and a rebellious attitude.
Here’s a list of 21 bands that share similarities with Motörhead, known for their hard-hitting blend of heavy metal, rock ‘n’ roll, and punk energy:
#1 Judas Priest
Judas Priest, formed in Birmingham, England, in 1969, is one of the most iconic and influential heavy metal bands of all time. Known for their twin guitar attack, soaring vocals, and leather-clad image, Judas Priest helped define the sound and aesthetic of heavy metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their breakthrough albums, such as British Steel (1980) and Screaming for Vengeance (1982), featured classic tracks like “Breaking the Law” and “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’,” which became anthems for the metal community.
Judas Priest’s music is characterized by powerful riffs, driving rhythms, and Rob Halford’s operatic vocal style, which set them apart from their peers and solidified their place in metal history. The band’s relentless energy and commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre draw comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating high-octane, riff-driven rock. Judas Priest continues to be a major influence in the metal world, with a career spanning over five decades and a legacy of groundbreaking music.
#2 Saxon
Saxon, formed in Barnsley, England, in 1977, is one of the key bands of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. Known for their high-energy performances and anthemic, riff-driven songs, Saxon quickly gained a following with their early albums, such as Wheels of Steel (1980) and Strong Arm of the Law (1980). These albums featured classic tracks like “747 (Strangers in the Night)” and “Denim and Leather,” which became staples of the NWOBHM scene.
Saxon’s music is characterized by its powerful guitar riffs, catchy choruses, and Biff Byford’s distinctive vocals, which have made them a favorite among heavy metal fans worldwide. The band’s dedication to straightforward, no-frills rock ‘n’ roll draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both raw and energetic. Saxon remains a major force in the heavy metal scene, known for their longevity, consistency, and ability to connect with audiences across generations.
#3 Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden, formed in London in 1975, is one of the most successful and influential heavy metal bands in history. Known for their complex compositions, epic themes, and dynamic live performances, Iron Maiden helped define the sound of heavy metal in the 1980s. Their breakthrough album, The Number of the Beast (1982), featuring hits like “Run to the Hills” and “Hallowed Be Thy Name,” catapulted them to global fame and established them as leaders of the NWOBHM movement.
Iron Maiden’s music is characterized by galloping bass lines, intricate guitar harmonies, and Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals, which set them apart from their peers and earned them a massive, dedicated fan base. Their ability to blend technical skill with a raw, energetic performance style draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared influence on the development of heavy metal. Iron Maiden continues to be a dominant force in the metal world, with a legacy of groundbreaking music and unforgettable live shows.
#4 Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath, formed in Birmingham, England, in 1968, is widely regarded as the pioneers of heavy metal. Their debut album, Black Sabbath (1970), and its follow-up, Paranoid (1970), laid the foundation for the genre with their dark, heavy sound and themes of doom, despair, and rebellion. Songs like “Iron Man,” “War Pigs,” and “Paranoid” became anthems for a generation and set the standard for what heavy metal would become.
Black Sabbath’s music is characterized by Tony Iommi’s iconic, down-tuned guitar riffs, Geezer Butler’s dark, thematic lyrics, and Ozzy Osbourne’s distinctive vocals, all of which combined to create a sound that was both groundbreaking and enduring. Their raw, unpolished approach to rock music draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both heavy and accessible. Black Sabbath’s influence on the development of heavy metal is immeasurable, and their legacy continues to inspire countless bands across the genre.
#5 Venom
Venom, formed in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, in 1979, is credited with laying the groundwork for the black metal genre with their raw, aggressive sound and dark, satanic themes. Their debut album, Welcome to Hell (1981), and its follow-up, Black Metal (1982), were instrumental in shaping the sound and aesthetic of extreme metal, with their lo-fi production, fast tempos, and chaotic, blistering riffs. Venom’s music was a radical departure from the more polished sound of mainstream metal, and it resonated with fans of underground, extreme music.
Venom’s influence extends beyond black metal; their raw, punk-infused approach to heavy metal also draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared disregard for musical conventions and their focus on creating music that is intense and uncompromising. Venom remains a seminal band in the history of extreme metal, known for their impact on the development of multiple subgenres within the metal spectrum.
#6 Anthrax
Anthrax, formed in New York City in 1981, is one of the “Big Four” bands of thrash metal, alongside Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth. Known for their fast tempos, aggressive riffs, and socially conscious lyrics, Anthrax helped define the thrash metal genre in the 1980s. Their breakthrough album, Among the Living (1987), featuring hits like “Indians” and “Caught in a Mosh,” solidified their place as one of the leading bands in thrash metal.
Anthrax’s music is characterized by its high energy, complex guitar work, and Joey Belladonna’s distinctive vocals, which set them apart from their peers and earned them a loyal following. Their ability to blend the intensity of thrash with elements of punk and hardcore draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both aggressive and accessible. Anthrax continues to be a major force in the metal world, known for their powerful performances and influence on the development of thrash metal.
#7 Overkill
Overkill, formed in New Jersey in 1980, is one of the pioneering bands of the thrash metal movement. Known for their relentless speed, aggressive riffs, and raw energy, Overkill quickly established themselves as one of the most consistent and hardworking bands in the genre. Their debut album, Feel the Fire (1985), and its follow-up, Taking Over (1987), featured fast, ferocious tracks that became staples of the thrash metal scene.
Overkill’s sound is characterized by Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth’s distinctive, raspy vocals and the band’s tight, fast-paced instrumentation. Their ability to blend thrash metal with elements of punk and traditional heavy metal draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared commitment to keeping the energy high and the music uncompromisingly intense. Overkill remains a beloved and enduring force in thrash metal, with a career spanning over four decades and a reputation for delivering powerful, high-octane performances.
#8 AC/DC
AC/DC, formed in Sydney, Australia, in 1973, is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands in history. Known for their high-energy performances, straightforward rock ‘n’ roll sound, and anthemic songs, AC/DC quickly rose to prominence with albums like High Voltage (1975) and Highway to Hell (1979). Their music is characterized by Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs, Bon Scott’s (and later Brian Johnson’s) powerful vocals, and a relentless focus on delivering no-nonsense rock.
AC/DC’s raw, unfiltered approach to rock ‘n’ roll draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared emphasis on high-energy, riff-driven music that connects with audiences on a visceral level. The band’s legendary status was cemented with the release of Back in Black (1980), one of the best-selling albums of all time. AC/DC continues to be a major influence in rock music, known for their timeless hits and explosive live shows.
#9 Slayer
Slayer, formed in Huntington Park, California, in 1981, is one of the most influential bands in the history of thrash metal. Known for their aggressive, fast-paced music and dark, controversial lyrics, Slayer helped define the sound and aesthetic of thrash metal in the 1980s. Their breakthrough album, Reign in Blood (1986), is widely regarded as one of the greatest metal albums of all time, featuring tracks like “Angel of Death” and “Raining Blood.”
Slayer’s music is characterized by its blistering speed, complex guitar work, and Tom Araya’s intense vocal delivery, which set them apart from their peers and earned them a dedicated following. Their uncompromising approach to heavy music draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both brutal and influential. Slayer remained a dominant force in metal until their retirement in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking music and unforgettable live performances.
#10 Accept
Accept, formed in Solingen, Germany, in 1976, is one of the most influential bands in the development of heavy metal, particularly in the subgenre of speed metal. Known for their powerful riffs, anthemic choruses, and Udo Dirkschneider’s distinctive vocals, Accept quickly gained a following with their early albums, such as Restless and Wild (1982) and Balls to the Wall (1983). The latter album’s title track became a metal anthem, showcasing the band’s ability to blend heaviness with melody.
Accept’s music is characterized by its driving rhythms, precise guitar work, and a focus on creating music that is both powerful and accessible. Their ability to bridge the gap between traditional heavy metal and the emerging speed metal genre draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on keeping the music fast, heavy, and full of attitude. Accept continues to be a major influence in metal, with a career spanning several decades and a reputation for delivering high-energy performances.
#11 Megadeth
Megadeth, formed in Los Angeles in 1983 by former Metallica guitarist Dave Mustaine, is one of the “Big Four” bands of thrash metal. Known for their technical precision, complex compositions, and politically charged lyrics, Megadeth quickly established themselves as one of the leading bands in the genre. Their debut album, Killing Is My Business… and Business Is Good! (1985), and its follow-up, Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying? (1986), featured fast, aggressive tracks that became staples of thrash metal.
Megadeth’s music is characterized by its intricate guitar work, fast tempos, and Mustaine’s snarling vocal style, which set them apart from their peers and earned them a dedicated fan base. Their ability to blend technicality with aggression draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both heavy and impactful. Megadeth continues to be a dominant force in the metal world, known for their influential albums and powerful live performances.
#12 Tank
Tank, formed in London, England, in 1980, is one of the key bands of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. Known for their raw, energetic sound and punk-infused approach to heavy metal, Tank quickly gained a following with their debut album, Filth Hounds of Hades (1982). The band’s music is characterized by Algy Ward’s gruff vocals, heavy riffs, and a no-nonsense attitude that set them apart from many of their more polished peers.
Tank’s sound is often compared to that of Motörhead, particularly in their shared emphasis on creating music that is both heavy and unpretentious. Their blend of punk energy with heavy metal riffs made them a unique presence in the NWOBHM scene, and their influence can be seen in the development of both thrash metal and speed metal. Tank remains a cult favorite among metal fans, known for their raw sound and rebellious spirit.
#13 ZZ Top
ZZ Top, formed in Houston, Texas, in 1969, is one of the most successful and enduring bands in rock history. Known for their blues-infused rock sound, signature beards, and humor-infused lyrics, ZZ Top quickly rose to fame with albums like Tres Hombres (1973) and Eliminator (1983). Their music is characterized by Billy Gibbons’ distinctive guitar work, Dusty Hill’s solid bass lines, and Frank Beard’s tight drumming, all of which contribute to their unique sound.
ZZ Top’s blend of blues, rock, and a touch of boogie draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both accessible and deeply rooted in rock ‘n’ roll traditions. The band’s ability to blend catchy hooks with gritty, down-to-earth musicianship has made them a favorite among fans of classic rock and blues rock. ZZ Top continues to be a major influence in rock music, known for their iconic image and timeless hits.
#14 W.A.S.P.
W.A.S.P., formed in Los Angeles in 1982, is known for their theatrical live performances, shock rock image, and heavy, riff-driven sound. Led by frontman Blackie Lawless, W.A.S.P. quickly gained notoriety with their self-titled debut album in 1984, featuring hits like “I Wanna Be Somebody” and “L.O.V.E. Machine.” The band’s music is characterized by its powerful riffs, anthemic choruses, and dark, often controversial lyrics.
W.A.S.P.’s blend of heavy metal with glam and shock rock elements draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both heavy and theatrical. The band’s ability to deliver high-energy, visually impactful performances made them a standout act in the 1980s metal scene. W.A.S.P. continues to be a significant influence in the metal world, known for their provocative image and powerful, genre-defining music.
#15 Thin Lizzy
Thin Lizzy, formed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1969, is one of the most influential rock bands of the 1970s, known for their pioneering twin guitar harmonies and the charismatic presence of frontman Phil Lynott. Their music blends hard rock with elements of blues, folk, and traditional Irish music, creating a sound that is both melodic and powerful. The band’s breakthrough came with the album Jailbreak (1976), featuring the hit single “The Boys Are Back in Town,” which became an anthem of the era.
Thin Lizzy’s music is characterized by its memorable riffs, soulful vocals, and a unique ability to blend toughness with melody. Their approach to rock music, which emphasizes both musicianship and emotional depth, draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both raw and accessible. Thin Lizzy’s influence on hard rock and heavy metal is profound, with their twin guitar style becoming a template for countless bands that followed.
#16 Raven
Raven, formed in Newcastle, England, in 1974, is one of the key bands of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. Known for their high-energy performances and “athletic rock” style, Raven quickly gained a reputation for their fast, aggressive music and wild stage antics. Their early albums, such as Rock Until You Drop (1981) and Wiped Out (1982), featured a raw, unpolished sound that became a defining characteristic of the NWOBHM scene.
Raven’s music is characterized by its frantic pace, heavy riffs, and the Gallagher brothers’ (John and Mark) intense performances. Their ability to blend the energy of punk with the heaviness of metal draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both chaotic and exhilarating. Raven remains a cult favorite in the metal community, known for their relentless energy and influence on the development of speed and thrash metal.
#17 Dio
Dio, formed in 1982 by legendary vocalist Ronnie James Dio after his departure from Black Sabbath, quickly became one of the most respected and influential bands in heavy metal. Known for their epic, fantasy-themed lyrics and powerful, operatic vocals, Dio’s music is a perfect blend of classic heavy metal and hard rock. Their debut album, Holy Diver (1983), is considered a metal masterpiece, featuring iconic tracks like “Holy Diver” and “Rainbow in the Dark.”
Dio’s music is characterized by its soaring vocals, melodic guitar work, and a focus on themes of heroism, mysticism, and the battle between good and evil. The band’s ability to craft songs that are both powerful and deeply emotional draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on delivering music that resonates with audiences on multiple levels. Dio’s influence on the metal genre is immense, with Ronnie James Dio regarded as one of the greatest metal vocalists of all time.
#18 Rose Tattoo
Rose Tattoo, formed in Sydney, Australia, in 1976, is one of the most iconic hard rock bands to emerge from the Australian pub rock scene. Known for their raw, no-nonsense sound and rebellious attitude, Rose Tattoo quickly gained a following with their self-titled debut album in 1978, featuring hits like “Bad Boy for Love” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Outlaw.” Their music, characterized by slide guitar riffs and frontman Angry Anderson’s gritty vocals, became a blueprint for the Australian hard rock sound.
Rose Tattoo’s music is a blend of hard rock, blues, and a touch of punk, drawing comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both heavy and straightforward. The band’s influence on Australian rock is profound, with many considering them a precursor to bands like AC/DC. Rose Tattoo continues to be a significant force in rock music, known for their uncompromising sound and rebellious spirit.
#19 Krokus
Krokus, formed in Solothurn, Switzerland, in 1974, is one of the most successful hard rock bands to emerge from Europe in the 1980s. Known for their powerful riffs, catchy hooks, and a sound reminiscent of AC/DC, Krokus quickly gained international fame with albums like Metal Rendez-vous (1980) and Headhunter (1983). The latter album, featuring hits like “Screaming in the Night,” became a metal classic, solidifying the band’s place in the global rock scene.
Krokus’s music is characterized by its heavy, blues-influenced riffs, Marc Storace’s dynamic vocals, and a focus on creating high-energy rock anthems. Their straightforward, no-frills approach to rock music draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared emphasis on keeping the music raw and powerful. Krokus remains a beloved band in the hard rock and metal communities, known for their consistent output and energetic live performances.
#20 Twisted Sister
Twisted Sister, formed in Long Island, New York, in 1972, became one of the most recognizable bands of the 1980s glam metal scene. Known for their flamboyant image, rebellious lyrics, and anthemic rock songs, Twisted Sister quickly rose to fame with their breakthrough album Stay Hungry (1984). The album featured iconic tracks like “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “I Wanna Rock,” which became rallying cries for disaffected youth and solidified the band’s place in rock history.
Twisted Sister’s music is characterized by its powerful riffs, catchy choruses, and Dee Snider’s commanding vocals, which combined to create a sound that was both rebellious and accessible. Their blend of hard rock and heavy metal, combined with a strong sense of theatricality, draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both entertaining and defiant. Twisted Sister remains an influential band in the rock world, known for their impact on the glam metal genre and their unforgettable live shows.
#21 Exciter
Exciter, formed in Ottawa, Canada, in 1978, is one of the pioneering bands of the speed metal genre. Known for their fast tempos, aggressive riffs, and raw energy, Exciter quickly gained a following with their debut album Heavy Metal Maniac (1983). The band’s music is characterized by its relentless speed, heavy guitar work, and Dan Beehler’s powerful drumming and vocals, which combined to create a sound that was both intense and exhilarating.
Exciter’s ability to push the boundaries of speed and aggression in metal draws comparisons to Motörhead, particularly in their shared focus on creating music that is both fast and heavy. Their influence on the development of speed and thrash metal is significant, with many considering them one of the forerunners of the genre. Exciter remains a cult favorite among metal fans, known for their raw sound and pioneering spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bands are similar to Motörhead in terms of musical style?
Bands like Judas Priest, Saxon, and Overkill share Motörhead’s high-energy, riff-driven sound with a blend of heavy metal, rock ‘n’ roll, and punk influences. These bands emphasize raw power and straightforward, aggressive music.
Why is Motörhead often compared to bands like AC/DC and Thin Lizzy?
Motörhead, AC/DC, and Thin Lizzy all share a love for straightforward, hard-hitting rock music with a focus on memorable riffs and anthemic songs. They each bring a unique blend of rock and metal that appeals to fans of both genres.
Are there any modern bands that capture the essence of Motörhead’s sound?
Yes, bands like Airbourne and The Wild! are modern acts that capture the raw, energetic spirit of Motörhead with their blend of rock ‘n’ roll and heavy metal. They continue the legacy of fast, loud, and rebellious music.
What is the defining characteristic of bands that are compared to Motörhead?
Bands compared to Motörhead typically emphasize a blend of speed, heaviness, and a no-nonsense approach to rock and metal. They often prioritize raw, powerful riffs and a rebellious attitude in their music.
