Best Metal Bass Lines: Top 30 Ranked (2026)

Geezer Butler of Black Sabbath once said, "I never tried to be a showman. I was just a musician who enjoyed playing with his mates." That humble approach accidentally created the blueprint for heavy metal, proving that the bass is more than a background instrument; it's the earth-shaking foundation of the entire genre.

Finding the best metal bass lines is a journey through heavy music's history, from the groovy doom of the 70s to the technical wizardry of today. These lines are more than just root notes. They are hooks, counter-melodies, and rhythmic juggernauts that define their songs. They provide the weight, the groove, and the sinister undercurrent that makes metal feel so powerful. This list celebrates the players who pushed the four-string (and sometimes five or six-string) to its absolute limit.

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Our Ranking of the Best Metal Bass Lines Ever

Ranking something so subjective is always a challenge. Our criteria focus on three things: iconic status, technical skill, and impact on the song. A great bass line isn't just hard to play; it must be memorable and essential to the track's identity. From foundational grooves to face-melting solos, here are the 30 bass lines that define metal.

30. "Raining Blood" by Slayer (Bassist: Tom Araya)

While Tom Araya is known more for his ferocious vocals, his bass work on "Raining Blood" is the definition of tight, aggressive rhythm playing. He locks in perfectly with Dave Lombardo's drumming, creating a frantic, punishing foundation for one of metal's most legendary riffs. It’s a masterclass in high-speed picking and stamina.

29. "Laid to Rest" by Lamb of God (Bassist: John Campbell)

John Campbell's playing is the anchor in Lamb of God's chaotic sound. The intro to "Laid to Rest" is a powerful groove that weaves between the guitars, adding a layer of rhythmic complexity that makes the riff so bouncy and infectious. It’s a perfect example of a modern metal bass line that is both heavy and groovy.

28. "Refuse/Resist" by Sepultura (Bassist: Paulo Jr.)

The bass on "Refuse/Resist" is pure tribal thunder. Paulo Jr.'s simple, driving line works with Igor Cavalera's drumming to create a massive, marching feel. It's not flashy, but its power is undeniable. This line proves that sometimes the heaviest thing you can do is hold down an unwavering groove.

27. "Cowboys from Hell" by Pantera (Bassist: Rex Brown)

Rex Brown is the king of the pocket groove. His work on "Cowboys from Hell" is a lesson in sitting back and letting the riff breathe while adding his own funky, blues-inflected flavor. He perfectly complements Dimebag Darrell's guitar heroics without ever getting in the way, providing the song's signature swagger.

26. "Walk" by Pantera (Bassist: Rex Brown)

Another entry for Rex Brown, "Walk," is the definition of simplicity as a weapon. The bass line is just a few notes, but it’s played with so much attitude and weight that it becomes one of the heaviest riffs ever written. It’s the ultimate proof that you don’t need a flurry of notes to make a massive impact.

25. "Symphony of Destruction" by Megadeth (Bassist: David Ellefson)

Often cited as a great starting point for aspiring metal bassists, the main riff of "Symphony of Destruction" is catchy, powerful, and perfectly executed. David Ellefson’s crisp pick attack drives the song forward, locking in with the drums to create a mid-tempo stomp that is impossible not to headbang to.

24. "Peace Sells" by Megadeth (Bassist: David Ellefson)

The iconic, wandering bass intro to "Peace Sells" is instantly recognizable. Ellefson sets a dark, moody tone before the rest of the band kicks in. It's a rare moment where the bass gets the spotlight in a thrash metal classic, creating one of the most memorable song introductions in history.

23. "Would?" by Alice in Chains (Bassist: Mike Starr)

Mike Starr's haunting, distorted bass intro is the heart of "Would?". The line is moody and melodic, setting the somber tone for the entire track. It’s a fantastic example of how a bass line can be the main melodic hook of a song, demonstrating the power of tone and feel over technical complexity.

22. "Chop Suey!" by System Of A Down (Bassist: Shavo Odadjian)

Shavo Odadjian's bass playing is often the secret ingredient in SOAD's manic sound. On "Chop Suey!", he provides a frantic, driving rhythm during the verses that contrasts perfectly with the soaring chorus. His ability to navigate the song's sudden shifts in tempo and dynamics is a testament to his skill and creativity.

21. "Stricken" by Disturbed (Bassist: John Moyer)

John Moyer's bass work on "Stricken" adds a thick, powerful low-end that gives the song its immense weight. The syncopated rhythm during the main riff is incredibly tight, locking in with the kick drum to create a punchy, modern metal groove.

20. "Toxicity" by System Of A Down (Bassist: Shavo Odadjian)

The bass line in the verses of "Toxicity" is a bouncy, almost funky line that provides a cool counterpoint to the driving guitars. Shavo’s playing is a key part of the song's unique dynamic, showcasing how a creative bass part can elevate a track from good to great.

19. "Coming Undone" by Korn (Bassist: Fieldy)

Fieldy's signature percussive, slappy bass tone is on full display here. The bass line in "Coming Undone" is less about melody and more about rhythmic impact. His ultra-low tuning and aggressive technique create a sound that is more like a drum than a traditional bass, a key element of the nu-metal sound Korn pioneered. To achieve that signature percussive attack, many players seek out the best bass strings for slap.

18. "My Own Summer (Shove It)" by Deftones (Bassist: Chi Cheng)

The late Chi Cheng had a unique ability to be both heavy and atmospheric. The main riff of "My Own Summer" is a simple, descending line, but played with a thick, syrupy tone it becomes monstrous. It’s a hypnotic, powerful groove that anchors the song's dissonant guitars and Chino Moreno's ethereal vocals. The band's influence and financial success are a testament to their unique sound, with the net worth of Deftones reflecting their long and storied career.

17. "The Drapery Falls" by Opeth (Bassist: Martin Mendez)

Martin Mendez is a master of progressive metal bass. His playing on this Opeth epic is fluid and melodic, weaving intricate lines around the guitars. He effortlessly shifts between heavy, driving sections and delicate, almost jazz-like passages, showcasing a level of musicality rarely seen in extreme metal.

16. "Crystal Mountain" by Death (Bassist: Kelly Conlon)

Chuck Schuldiner always surrounded himself with incredible musicians, and Kelly Conlon was no exception. The bass on "Crystal Mountain" is incredibly technical and melodic, often playing counter-melodies to the guitars instead of just following them. It’s a prime example of the fretless, fluid style that became a hallmark of the Death sound.

15. "Hammer Smashed Face" by Cannibal Corpse (Bassist: Alex Webster)

Alex Webster is a death metal god. The frantic, machine-gun bass intro to "Hammer Smashed Face" is a legendary feat of speed and precision. Using his three-finger technique, Webster unleashes a torrent of notes that is somehow both unbelievably fast and perfectly clear. He sets the standard for technicality in extreme metal. The band's long career has cemented their status as legends, and you can learn more about Cannibal Corpse's net worth and history online.

14. "Domination" by Pantera (Bassist: Rex Brown)

The breakdown in "Domination" might be the heaviest moment in Pantera's entire catalog, and Rex Brown's bass is a huge reason why. He holds down a crushing, simple groove that allows Dimebag's squealing guitar solo to soar. It’s a moment of pure, unadulterated heavy.

13. "Blackwater Park" by Opeth (Bassist: Martin Mendez)

Another masterwork from Martin Mendez. His bass on the title track of "Blackwater Park" is a journey in itself. He fills the space between the riffs with beautiful, melodic runs and locks into incredibly tight, heavy grooves. His playing adds a layer of sophistication and depth that is essential to Opeth's sound.

12. "The Thing That Should Not Be" by Metallica (Bassist: Cliff Burton)

This is Cliff Burton at his heaviest. The bass on this track is tuned down and played with a crushing weight. The slow, lurching riff feels immense, and Cliff’s presence in the mix is undeniable. He’s not just playing notes; he’s moving tectonic plates.

11. "Ace of Spades" by Motörhead (Bassist: Lemmy Kilmister)

Lemmy didn't play bass like anyone else. He played it like a rhythm guitar, using a Rickenbacker and a cranked Marshall stack to create a distorted, chord-based attack. "Ace of Spades" is the ultimate example of his style. It’s a chaotic, runaway train of a bass line that is the heart and soul of the song. Lemmy's rebellious spirit was legendary, much like other rock and roll pioneers such as Eazy-E, whose net worth was built on a similar anti-establishment attitude.

10. "Holy Wars… The Punishment Due" by Megadeth (Bassist: David Ellefson)

A masterclass in thrash metal bass playing, Ellefson navigates the song's many tempo changes and complex riffs with incredible precision. His fast, articulate picking keeps the energy high, and his playing during the acoustic interlude shows his versatility. A truly epic performance.

9. "Caught in a Mosh" by Anthrax (Bassist: Frank Bello)

Frank Bello is one of metal's most energetic bassists, and his playing on "Caught in a Mosh" is pure adrenaline. The galloping bass line is played with a ferocious fingerstyle attack that gives it a unique punch. It’s a fun, bouncy, and aggressive line that perfectly captures the energy of the New York thrash scene.

8. "The Trooper" by Iron Maiden (Bassist: Steve Harris)

This is the quintessential Steve Harris bass line. The famous "gallop" rhythm (one eighth note followed by two sixteenths) drives the song forward at a frantic pace. Played with his signature fingerstyle technique, the bass sounds like a cavalry charge. It's one of the most iconic heavy metal bass riffs ever written and has inspired countless bassists to put down the pick.

7. "Hangar 18" by Megadeth (Bassist: David Ellefson)

Another technical marvel from David Ellefson. His bass work in "Hangar 18" is incredibly tight and complex, perfectly doubling many of Dave Mustaine's and Marty Friedman's intricate guitar riffs. The interplay between the bass and guitars is a huge part of what makes this song a thrash masterpiece.

6. "Forty Six & 2" by Tool (Bassist: Justin Chancellor)

Justin Chancellor's bass lines are often hypnotic, and this one is a prime example. The main riff, played with a pick and effects, has a unique percussive quality. The line is complex, groovy, and rhythmically tricky, anchoring the song's odd time signatures and providing a powerful, melodic foundation.

5. "N.I.B." by Black Sabbath (Bassist: Geezer Butler)

The song that starts with a bass solo. Geezer Butler’s distorted, wah-drenched intro, "Bassically," sets the stage for one of Sabbath's heaviest tracks. The main riff is a masterclass in blues-based metal, with Geezer throwing in tasty melodic fills that dance around Tony Iommi's guitar. It proved early on that the bass could be a lead instrument.

4. "Orion" by Metallica (Bassist: Cliff Burton)

"Orion" is Cliff Burton's magnum opus. This epic instrumental showcases every facet of his genius. From the melodic, fade-in intro to the harmonized, lyrical bass solo in the middle section, Cliff's playing is the star of the show. He uses his instrument to create textures and melodies in a way no metal bassist had before, a feat that rivals even the most iconic guitar solos in its creativity and impact.

3. "Wrathchild" by Iron Maiden (Bassist: Steve Harris)

The aggressive, clanky intro to "Wrathchild" is pure Steve Harris. It's a statement of intent. The line is played with speed, precision, and an attitude that defines Iron Maiden's sound. It’s a relentless, driving bass part that never lets up, showcasing his incredible stamina and right-hand technique.

2. "Schism" by Tool (Bassist: Justin Chancellor)

According to a fan poll analysis, "Schism" is one of the most beloved metal bass lines of all time, and for good reason. It's a labyrinth of odd time signatures and hammer-ons, but Justin Chancellor makes it sound effortlessly groovy. It is the main riff, the hook, and the rhythmic core of the song all at once. It's one of the most difficult bass songs to learn correctly, not just for its technicality, but for its unique feel.

1. "For Whom the Bell Tolls" by Metallica (Bassist: Cliff Burton)

This is it. The chromatic, bell-like intro is not a guitar; it's Cliff Burton playing high on the neck with heavy distortion and a wah pedal. It’s one of the most iconic moments in metal history. The main riff that follows is simple, powerful, and unforgettable. This song perfectly encapsulates Cliff's philosophy: the bass is not a background instrument. It can be melodic, it can be heavy, it can be the lead voice. It's the undisputed champion and one of the best metal bass lines of all time.

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The Legendary Bassists Who Defined the Genre

Behind every great bass line is a great bassist. These players didn't just write memorable parts; they pioneered new techniques, tones, and approaches to the instrument that shaped metal for generations.

Cliff Burton (Metallica)

Cliff Burton changed the game. He approached the bass with the mindset of a lead guitarist, incorporating classical harmony, punk aggression, and a heavy use of effects like distortion and wah. His famous solos, like "(Anesthesia) – Pulling Teeth," were unheard of at the time.

He made the bass a lead instrument, inspiring countless players to step out from the background. His work on instrumentals was particularly groundbreaking, creating bass-driven narratives that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best instrumental guitar songs ever recorded.

Geezer Butler (Black Sabbath)

The godfather of metal bass. Geezer was one of the first to tune down and use distortion, creating a sound that was heavier than anything that had come before. A blues player at heart, his bass lines were full of melodic fills and runs that often acted as a counter-melody to Tony Iommi's riffs. He wrote the rulebook.

Steve Harris (Iron Maiden)

The man who made the "gallop" famous. Steve Harris's machine-gun fingerstyle technique is legendary. His bass lines are a constant, driving force in Iron Maiden's music, often carrying the main melodic information of the riff. His incredible stamina and aggressive, trebly tone give him a sound that is instantly recognizable.

Alex Webster (Cannibal Corpse)

In the world of extreme metal, Alex Webster is the benchmark for technical skill. His three-finger picking technique allows him to play at blistering speeds with unmatched clarity and precision. He proved that bass could not only keep up in the chaos of death metal but also be a complex and compelling voice.

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Crafting the Perfect Metal Bass Tone

A great bass line needs a great tone to match. Getting a bass to cut through a wall of down-tuned, high-gain guitars is a common challenge for metal players.

First, you need to find your place in the mix. Don't just double the guitars; find the space where the bass can provide low-end power without turning everything to mud. This often means carving out a spot in the midrange. A common mistake is to scoop the mids entirely, which can make your bass disappear in a band setting.

Your gear also plays a huge role. Basses with active humbucking pickups, like those from Spector, Warwick, or Ibanez, are popular choices for their powerful, clear output. For lower tunings, more players are turning to extended-range instruments, with a recent report noting that five and six-string basses are recommended for extreme metal.

Pedals are essential. A good overdrive or distortion pedal can add the grit and aggression needed for metal. A compressor can help even out your dynamics, ensuring every note is heard clearly. The right amp settings are also key; if you want to dial in that crushing sound, it helps to understand the principles behind guitar amp settings for metal, as many of the same concepts apply to bass.

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Fingerstyle vs. Pick: The Great Metal Debate

Should you use your fingers or a pick? It's a timeless argument in the bass community, and in metal, both styles have their champions.

• Pick: Using a pick generally provides a sharper, more aggressive attack with a brighter tone. This can help the bass cut through a dense mix with two distorted guitars. Players like David Ellefson (Megadeth) and Rex Brown (Pantera) are known for their precise pick playing. It's often preferred for fast, alternate-picked thrash metal riffs.
• Fingerstyle: Playing with your fingers typically yields a warmer, rounder tone. It allows for a wider dynamic range and techniques like slapping and popping. Legends like Steve Harris (Iron Maiden) and Geezer Butler (Black Sabbath) prove you can achieve incredible speed and aggression without a pick. Alex Webster takes it to another level with his three-finger technique for death metal.

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer. The best choice is the one that allows you to execute the music effectively and achieve the tone you hear in your head. Many modern players are proficient in both styles, switching between them as the song demands. Experimenting is part of finding your own voice on the instrument. Some players even draw inspiration from the percussive nature of funk, which has its own rich history of amazing funk bass lines.

As the global bass guitar market, valued at over $744 million in 2024, continues to expand (detailed in a recent bass guitar market report), the innovation in both instruments and playing styles is sure to continue for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hardest metal bass line to play?

While "hardest" is subjective, "Schism" by Tool is widely considered one of the most challenging due to its complex time signatures (alternating between 5/4 and 7/8) and technical demands. Other contenders include "Hammer Smashed Face" by Cannibal Corpse for its sheer speed and "Orion" by Metallica for its melodic complexity and solo sections.

Who is considered the best metal bassist of all time?

This is a highly debated topic, but the four names most frequently mentioned are Cliff Burton, Steve Harris, Geezer Butler, and Alex Webster. Each one pioneered a different aspect of metal bass playing, from melodic lead work and galloping rhythms to bluesy fills and extreme technicality.

Do I need a 5-string bass to play metal?

You don't need one, but it is highly recommended for many modern subgenres. A 5-string bass provides access to lower notes (usually a low B string), which is essential for bands that tune their guitars down to B, A, or even lower. It allows the bass to maintain a thick, powerful low-end without dealing with the floppy tension of down-tuned strings on a standard 4-string.

How can I make my bass heard in a metal band?

Focus on your midrange frequencies (mids) on your amp. While boosting bass and treble might sound good when you play alone, the mids are what allow an instrument to cut through a mix. Also, consider a mild overdrive pedal to add grit and harmonic content that helps your notes stand out against distorted guitars. Finally, try creating your own sonic space instead of just copying the guitar riff note-for-note.

What are good metal bass lines for beginners?

"Symphony of Destruction" by Megadeth is a fantastic starting point. The main riff is straightforward, played with a pick, and helps develop rhythmic consistency. Other great choices include "Walk" by Pantera for its simplicity and power, and the main riff of "Iron Man" by Black Sabbath for learning to lock in with a drummer on a slow, heavy groove.