nu metal
what it is
Nu metal is a subgenre of alternative metal that blends elements of heavy metal with influences from other genres such as tribal music, funk, grunge and a little bit of hip-hop. It typically emphasises rhythm and syncopation, with guitar work often involving down-tuned seven-string guitars to create a heavier sound. Guitar solos are generally less common in nu metal.
✦ start here: albums
✦ who's making it, level by level
level 1 · mainstream
the pop everyone knows
level 2 · the door
big names with a sharper edge
level 3 · one step out
cult favorites and indie darlings
level 4 · further
art pop, hyperpop, and the underground
level 5 · all the way
deep experimental
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questions
What is nu metal?
Nu metal is a subgenre of alternative metal that blends elements of heavy metal with influences from other genres such as tribal music, funk, grunge and a little bit of hip-hop. It typically emphasises rhythm and syncopation, with guitar work often involving down-tuned seven-string guitars to create a heavier sound. Guitar solos are generally less common in nu metal.
What are good nu metal albums to start with?
Try Korn by Korn, Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park, The Gift of Game by Crazy Town, and Greatest Hitz by Limp Bizkit.
Who are some women making nu metal?
musicisforgirls.com/genres/nu-metal/girls lists women, non-binary artists, and bands with women making nu metal, from mainstream to underground.
genre notes from last.fm listeners · artists and albums from last.fm, updated 2026-10-20