As 2024 draws to a close, the hard rock and heavy metal scenes continue to deliver electrifying live performances. From legendary acts to modern icons, the touring landscape has been packed with powerhouse performances, and many bands are planning extensive tours into 2025. Let’s look at the top touring heavy metal and hard rock acts of the year, ranked by their number of planned concerts and the excitement they’ve generated among fans.
1. Metallica – #2
With 25 concerts scheduled through November 2025, Metallica leads the pack in both longevity and power. The thrash metal giants continue to reign as one of the most influential bands in rock history, and their upcoming tour promises to keep them at the forefront of the live music scene. Whether performing their classic hits or showcasing material from their latest album, Metallica’s high-energy live shows remain a must-see experience.
2. Guns N’ Roses – #16
Guns N’ Roses, one of the most iconic hard rock bands of all time, has 21 concerts lined up through July 2025. Their reunion tour, which sees Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan back together, is still going strong. Known for their explosive live performances and a setlist that spans decades, Guns N’ Roses remains a favorite among fans who crave nostalgia and high-octane rock anthems.
3. Iron Maiden – #23
With 31 concerts planned through August 2025, Iron Maiden proves that metal isn’t just a genre—it’s a way of life. The band’s iconic stage setups, impressive setlists, and Bruce Dickinson’s commanding presence continue to thrill audiences worldwide. As they take their “Legacy of the Beast” tour to new heights, Maiden proves that heavy metal and performance artistry go hand in hand.
4. AC/DC – #27
Despite their lineup changes over the years, AC/DC remains an indomitable force in the hard rock world. With 13 concerts scheduled through May 2025, the band is set to continue delivering their timeless brand of high-energy rock. Hits like “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell” keep fans coming back for more, and their legendary live performances show that rock ‘n’ roll is far from dead.
5. Def Leppard – #28
With 4 concerts planned through August 2025, Def Leppard is still rocking the stage. Known for their anthemic hits like “Pour Some Sugar on Me” and “Photograph,” Def Leppard’s enduring popularity is a testament to the band’s ability to connect with multiple generations of fans. Whether opening for other legends or headlining their own shows, their electrifying live performances are never to be missed.
6. System of a Down – #36
With 13 concerts scheduled through September 2025, System of a Down’s socially-conscious lyrics and eclectic sound continue to captivate audiences. Their shows are an intense, cathartic experience, with a mix of aggression and melody that has made them a unique voice in metal. Fans are eagerly awaiting their performances, which have been sporadic in recent years, making each show even more special.
7. Scorpions – #37
The Scorpions are living legends, with 15 concerts scheduled through July 2025. Known for their classic hits like “Rock You Like a Hurricane” and “Wind of Change,” the German band continues to thrill audiences with their hard rock anthems. Their ability to evolve while retaining their signature sound ensures their live shows remain as electrifying as ever.
8. Slipknot – #39
With 9 concerts scheduled through June 2025, Slipknot remains at the forefront of modern heavy metal. Their chaotic stage presence, theatrical performances, and unrelenting aggression make every show an intense spectacle. Slipknot’s fans are some of the most loyal and enthusiastic in the world, and their live shows continue to be an essential experience for metalheads everywhere.
9. Nickelback – #57
Despite being a band that frequently generates mixed opinions, Nickelback remains a staple of the hard rock scene with 11 concerts planned through July 2025. Their success isn’t just in the studio; their live performances continue to draw large crowds, who sing along to hits like “How You Remind Me” and “Rockstar.” Nickelback’s tours are always a reliable source of arena rock excitement.
10. Avenged Sevenfold – #61
With 9 concerts scheduled through September 2025, Avenged Sevenfold continues to captivate fans with their intricate blend of metalcore, hard rock, and progressive metal. Their live shows are a testament to their evolving sound, with a mix of new material and fan-favorite tracks. The band’s ability to surprise and innovate on stage ensures their continued popularity.
Honorable Mentions:
- Foreigner (#64) – 17 concerts planned through October 2025, offering a dose of classic rock with a focus on sing-along anthems.
- Disturbed (#67) – 35 concerts scheduled through May 2025, showcasing their modern take on hard rock and metal.
- Korn (#69) – 10 concerts planned through August 2025, continuing their reign as nu-metal pioneers.
- Lynyrd Skynyrd (#80) – 6 concerts scheduled through May 2025, delivering Southern rock at its finest.
- Judas Priest (#81) – 16 concerts scheduled through July 2025, proving that they are still one of the most influential metal bands on the planet.
As we move into 2025, these acts, along with a wealth of other hard rock and metal bands, are set to bring electrifying performances to stages across the globe. The hard rock and heavy metal communities remain as passionate and powerful as ever, with these bands leading the charge in the live music scene. Whether it’s the legends of yesteryear or the contemporary giants, 2024 has been a year of unforgettable tours and performances. Here’s to even more headbanging, mosh pits, and loud anthems in the years to come.
