YouTube turns 20 – These are the most watched metal videos in the world

It’s already been twenty years since YouTube was born. Initially, the site served primarily as a platform for home videos, but today it’s one of the world’s most influential media platforms – also within the realm of metal music. The service not only changed how music is consumed but also gave bands the opportunity to be seen and heard globally without the backing of major record labels. In this article, we take a brief look back at history and list the most viewed metal videos in YouTube’s history.

Founded in 2005, YouTube changed everything. No longer did you need MTV or record store shelves to discover new music – it was enough to hit play whenever it suited you best. In the metal scene, this opened the doors for both iconic giants and rising names whose videos reached millions of eyes. And when it comes to millions of views for a metal video, we’re talking truly big numbers.

We’ve compiled ten metal videos that have accumulated the most views in the history of the platform. The list combines modern metal sounds, songs that have reached classic status, and occasionally some unexpected names.

Top 10 Most Viewed Metal Videos on YouTube

10. Ghost – “Square Hammer”

Over 111 million views. The Swedish band Ghost combines catchy melodies and theatrical visuals in a way that’s unmatched in the metal world. This song marked a turning point in their international breakthrough.

9. Bring Me The Horizon – “Can You Feel My Heart”

Over 200 million views. A post-metalcore hit that found a new audience in the era of social media. The song bridges different genres and shows the band’s ability to reinvent itself.

8. Babymetal – “Gimme Chocolate!!”

Over 204 million views. The Japanese kawaii-metal band evokes strong reactions by blending J-pop and heavier metal in a way that leaves no one indifferent.

7. Slipknot – “Psychosocial”

Over 500 million views. One of Slipknot’s most recognizable tracks. Masks, intense energy, and heavy riffs make this video a long-standing draw on YouTube.

6. Rammstein – “Du Hast”

Over 600 million views. A classic of German industrial metal, combining an aggressive soundscape, a menacing atmosphere, and striking visual expression.

5. Disturbed – “The Sound of Silence” (cover)

Over 1 billion views. Paul Simon’s original gets a dark and intense rendition that is musically and visually powerful.

4. Scorpions – “Wind of Change”

Over 1 billion views. This iconic ballad by the German band became an anthem for the end of the Cold War. The song has maintained its global appeal.

3. System of a Down – “Chop Suey!”

Over 1.4 billion views. A cornerstone of early-2000s nu-metal that has gained new life through memes and social media. Its instantly recognizable opening line remains strong in pop culture.

2. Metallica – “Nothing Else Matters”

Over 1.4 billion views. This 1991 metal ballad is still one of the most watched metal songs on YouTube. Its timeless melody and emotional delivery make it a genre classic.

1. Linkin Park – “Numb”

Over 2.5 billion views. While it borders on nu-metal, Linkin Park’s influence on the genre is undeniable. This track dominates YouTube in a way few metal bands have achieved.