In the 2000s, nu-metal became much more defined among bands such as System Of A Down, Linkin Park, Slipknot, and Papa Roach. Two major nu-metal bands have announced an upcoming tour, and it’s got us thinking about the genre’s creation. Though the foundation of nu-metal was planted in the mid-to-late 90s, these bands put all the right pieces together. These underrated songs from the mid-90s accidentally created 2000s nu-metal.
“like i care” by helmet
Many of the 2000s nu-metal bands cited Helmet as a major influence. They’re often credited as helping to create the genre in the 90s. Their biggest hit, “Unsung”, was a defining track for the genre in 1992. Their 1997 album, Aftertaste, is often overlooked, though it helped create the sound of 2000s nu-metal. “Like I Care” is a great example, as it sounds ahead of its time. They’ve been cited as an influence by Linkin Park, System Of A Down, and KoRn.
“what a day” by faith no more
Faith No More is also credited with taking part in nu-metal’s creation. In 1995, King For A Day…Fool For A Lifetime is criminally underrated compared to the band’s two previous releases. The album is loaded with underrated tracks, including “What A Day”. Many tracks on this album served as inspiration for 2000s nu-metal, and it’s evident. Faith No More not only influenced 2000s nu-metal but also their peers such as KoRn, Deftones, and Slipknot.
“Headup” by Deftones
Released on Deftones’ 1997 album, Around The Fur, this song could’ve easily been released ten years later. Deftones were very much ahead of their time within nu-metal, defining the genre in the mid-to-later 90s. This is yet another song that is KoRn-coded, yet they were peers. Deftones were just as influential to their peers, such as Slipknot, as they were to new 2000s nu-metal bands.
“stalemate” by limp bizkit
On Limp Bizkit’s debut album, they immediately took over nu-metal. Nu-metal bands for the next decade had a template that was proven effective. “Stalemate” is a heavily underrated nu-metal track from the debut album. Bands such as Linkin Park, Papa Roach, and Hollywood Undead cite Limp Bizkit as an influence.
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