Few figures in heavy metal have a legacy as deeply rooted in the genre’s history as Brian Slagel. As the founder of Metal Blade Records, the man responsible for launching bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Cannibal Corpse into the world, Slagel’s name is synonymous with metal’s evolution. Now, with 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal, his new podcast produced by Pantheon, Slagel is distilling decades of metal history into a deep dive on the songs that shaped the genre.
But don’t call it a ranking.
“It’s not a countdown,” Slagel clarifies. “We’re not listing the ‘best’ metal songs. We’re talking about songs that had an impact—on the genre, on the culture, and on the fans.”
A Heavy Metal History Lesson
Each episode of 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal is structured in three parts: first, a historical segment by esteemed metal journalist Martin Popoff; second, a deep dive into the song’s production, often featuring legendary producers; and finally, an artist or notable fan discussing the track from their perspective. The result is a dynamic, layered exploration of what makes metal tick.
Slagel personally curates the guests, bringing in producers, artists, and fans he knows, making the podcast feel like an insider’s discussion on the music that shaped the genre. Some episodes include well-known producers like Bill Metoyer, who worked on early Slayer records, providing unique insights into the creation of these landmark songs.
Slagel doesn’t limit the podcast to Metal Blade’s catalog, either. The selections run the gamut from Alice Cooper to Cannibal Corpse, demonstrating the sheer breadth of what constitutes ‘heavy metal.’
“There’s no ‘one way’ to define heavy metal,” Slagel says. “The podcast lets us explore how different sounds, movements, and moments pushed metal forward.”
The Hidden Stories of Metal’s Most Defining Tracks
One of the podcast’s biggest revelations so far? A little-known recording trick behind System of a Down’s Toxicity album. Producer Dave Schiffman, who engineered the record, shared that guitarist Daron Malakian wanted to replicate the way guitars sounded inside a Guitar Center practice room—where hanging instruments subtly resonated in the background. To achieve this, they lined the studio walls with acoustic guitars, capturing the natural reverberation in the final mix. It’s one of many behind-the-scenes insights Slagel and his guests uncover in each episode.
Another unexpected insight came from his discussion on hair metal. While many dismiss the genre as purely visual spectacle, Slagel argues that bands like Cinderella had more in common with blues-based hard rock than the commercial glam scene. “People lump them in with hair metal, but they had serious musicianship and a different feel,” he says. These broader discussions ensure that the podcast offers fresh perspectives on well-trodden ground.
Fan Reception & The Podcast’s Growth
Since launching, 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal has been downloaded in over 50 countries—a reach that even surprised Slagel. “Pantheon has been really happy with the numbers so far,” he says. “I didn’t expect it to take off quite this fast.”
Fans have responded positively, engaging with the show on social media and sending in their own thoughts on what should be included. While Slagel started with a loose roadmap of 100 songs, he’s open to adjusting based on listener reactions. “Some people have suggested tracks I hadn’t even considered, and in some cases, they’ve made a good argument for why they belong,” he admits. “So there’s some flexibility in how this all plays out.”
Slagel’s View on Metal’s Evolution
With decades in the industry, Slagel has witnessed metal’s many transformations—from the NWOBHM explosion to the rise of extreme metal and modern progressive acts. One of his main goals with the podcast is to showcase how metal has evolved while ensuring that extreme and underground movements are just as represented as classic heavyweights.
“There’s always a balance between the foundational tracks—like the ones that built heavy metal—and the more niche, underground movements that keep pushing it forward,” he explains. “I want this to be an accurate reflection of how metal has grown, not just a ‘greatest hits’ list.”
As for the future of metal, Slagel sees continued innovation. “People always ask if metal is running out of ideas, but I don’t think so,” he says. “Bands are constantly finding new ways to be heavier, darker, and more technical. The passion in metal never dies—it just finds new forms.”
Behind-the-Scenes: Making the Podcast
While hosting 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal has been a rewarding experience, Slagel admits that producing a podcast is more work than he anticipated. “It’s fun, but it’s a lot,” he laughs. “I already have a full-time job running Metal Blade, so squeezing this in has been a challenge.”
The process starts with research—Slagel compiles background on each song, reaching out to producers, artists, and industry experts to add depth to each episode. Recording is another challenge, as coordinating schedules with busy musicians and producers isn’t always easy.
“There’s a lot of moving parts,” he says. “Coordinating with guests, making sure we get the historical context right, and keeping it engaging for listeners—it’s a bigger production than I expected.”
Despite the effort, Slagel loves the experience. “At the end of the day, it’s about talking to people I respect and love about music we’re all passionate about,” he says. “And that makes it worth it.”
What’s Next? More Episodes—and a Hulu TV Series
While 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal is gaining traction—having already been downloaded in over 50 countries—Slagel isn’t stopping there. He’s also involved in a new metal history docuseries for Hulu, Into the Void. Produced by the team behind Dark Side of the Ring, the show will explore pivotal figures in metal’s history, with episodes on legends like Chuck Schuldiner and Randy Rhoads.
Beyond the podcast, Slagel acknowledges the importance of documenting metal’s legacy in all formats—whether it be podcasts, books, or documentaries. “The more ways we can preserve and explore this history, the better,” he says. His efforts extend to incorporating overlooked elements of metal history, including its deep ties to different musical styles and underground movements.
Slagel has also been flexible with the podcast’s content, sometimes shifting away from his initial list based on guest suggestions. “Some artists have brought in ideas I hadn’t even considered,” he says. “It keeps the conversation fresh and unpredictable.”
The Ultimate Metal Anthem?
Among the many songs discussed on the podcast, there’s one that Slagel believes captures the essence of heavy metal more than any other. It’s a track that embodies the genre’s power, storytelling, and epic composition—one that he considers the perfect introduction to metal for the uninitiated.
“It’s got everything,” he says. “Intensity, incredible lyrics, an unforgettable vocal performance, and a structure that keeps evolving. It’s the full package.”
While listeners will have to wait until the final episode to hear Slagel’s definitive pick, for now, he’s enjoying the process of breaking down the songs that have shaped the genre, offering both die-hard fans and newcomers a guided tour through metal’s vast landscape.
New episodes of 100 Songs That Define Heavy Metal drop every Monday. Listen to a couple of Brian’s handpicked episodes below, and check it out wherever you get your podcasts. db
Kerry King
Johan Hegg
