Back in Time Today
When a lead singer leaves a band—especially a metal band—it can feel like the end of an era. But sometimes, the replacement steps in, grabs the mic, and unleashes a performance that not only silences the doubters but completely redefines the band. These 12 replacement metal vocalists didn’t just fill big shoes—they crushed them.
1. Brian Johnson (AC/DC)
When Bon Scott tragically died in 1980, fans mourned—and doubted. Enter Brian Johnson, whose explosive debut on Back in Black didn’t just match expectations, it made history. The album became one of the best-selling of all time, and Johnson became a legend in his own right.
With his raspy voice and dynamic stage presence, Johnson breathed new life into AC/DC. His energy and charisma were infectious, quickly winning over skeptics and cementing his place in rock history.
Did you know? Brian Johnson’s audition for AC/DC was so impressive that it became the stuff of legend, setting the stage for a historic career.
2. Ronnie James Dio (Black Sabbath)
Replacing Ozzy Osbourne seemed unthinkable—until Ronnie James Dio did it. His powerful, mystical voice on Heaven and Hell revived Sabbath and gave the band a new creative direction.
Dio’s majestic tones and enigmatic stage persona brought a new dimension to Black Sabbath’s music. His influence can be felt across generations of metal acts.
Fun fact: Dio is often credited with popularizing the “devil horns” hand gesture in metal culture, a symbol that has become synonymous with the genre itself.
3. Corey Taylor (Slipknot)
Slipknot had Anders Colsefni in the early days, but when Corey Taylor stepped in, everything changed. With unrelenting screams and surprisingly melodic vocals, Taylor helped launch the band to global stardom.
Taylor’s intense performances and versatile voice made him a standout figure in the metal scene. His ability to convey raw emotion captivated fans worldwide.
Did you know? Corey Taylor is not only the frontman for Slipknot but also leads Stone Sour, showcasing his wide range and musical versatility beyond heavy metal.
4. Phil Anselmo (Pantera)
Terry Glaze fronted Pantera during their glam-metal years, but Phil Anselmo brought aggression and grit. His raw vocals on Cowboys from Hell helped reinvent the band—and put groove metal on the map.
Anselmo’s fierce presence and vocal style resonated with fans, making Pantera a household name in the metal community. His influence paved the way for countless new artists.
Fun fact: Before joining Pantera, Anselmo was part of several underground bands, honing his skills and developing the unique style that would later define his career.
5. James LaBrie (Dream Theater)
After Charlie Dominici’s one-album stint, Canadian tenor James LaBrie brought technical brilliance and range. His voice became synonymous with Dream Theater’s complex, prog-metal sound.
LaBrie’s ability to navigate intricate melodies and harmonies set him apart, endearing him to fans of progressive metal. His voice has been a cornerstone of the band’s evolving sound.
Fun fact: LaBrie’s vocal range and technical skills are so impressive that he often collaborates with other artists, further solidifying his reputation in the music industry.
6. Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden)
Original singer Paul Di’Anno brought grit to Maiden’s early years, but Bruce Dickinson added operatic firepower. His soaring vocals on The Number of the Beast and beyond transformed Iron Maiden into metal royalty.
Dickinson’s theatrical stage presence and powerful voice captivated audiences worldwide. His unique ability to blend opera-style singing with heavy metal grit set Iron Maiden apart.
Did you know? Bruce is also a qualified airline pilot and even flew the band’s plane during tours, showcasing his diverse talents beyond just his vocal prowess.
7. Ripper Owens (Judas Priest)
He was a fan fronting a tribute band—until Priest called him up. Replacing Rob Halford is no small feat, but Owens impressed with his powerful delivery on albums like Jugulator. While he never outshone Halford in fame, he proved he had the pipes to carry the legacy.
Owens’ story is one of dreams realized, captivating fans with his steadfast dedication to the Priest sound.
Fun fact: Owens’ rise from tribute band singer to fronting Judas Priest was so remarkable that it inspired the movie “Rock Star,” starring Mark Wahlberg.
8. Matt Barlow (Iced Earth)
Gene Adam handled vocals on Iced Earth’s debut, but Matt Barlow’s entrance changed everything. His deep, commanding voice added emotional depth and helped define the band’s signature sound.
Barlow’s emotive performances and distinctive style won over fans, crafting a legacy that endures in the hearts of metal enthusiasts.
Did you know? Matt Barlow took a break from music to become a police officer, demonstrating his commitment to service and community beyond the stage.
9. Mark Tornillo (Accept)
When Udo Dirkschneider departed (again), Accept found a second wind in Mark Tornillo. His gravelly vocals and high energy revitalized the band, especially on Blood of the Nations, which earned rave reviews.
Tornillo’s vibrant performances reinvigorated Accept’s legacy, drawing in new fans while satisfying long-time followers.
Did you know? Before joining Accept, Tornillo was the lead singer of TT Quick, a band that gained a cult following in the 80s, showcasing his enduring roots in the metal genre.
10. Floor Jansen (Nightwish)
Following Tarja Turunen and Anette Olzon, Floor Jansen brought a jaw-dropping blend of operatic skill and metal power. Her live performances are now considered some of Nightwish’s best ever.
Jansen’s dynamic range and commanding stage presence captivated audiences, earning her a revered place in metal history.
Fun fact: Before joining Nightwish, Floor was a member of After Forever and ReVamp, where she honed her signature style that now defines her performances.
11. Jørn Lande (Masterplan)
Replacing Roland Grapow’s vision of a band that could blend melody and muscle, Jørn Lande’s Dio-esque vocals gave Masterplan a massive, dramatic edge that stole the show on every track.
Lande’s commanding voice and theatrical flair have been instrumental to Masterplan’s success, drawing comparisons to metal legends.
Did you know? Jørn Lande has been a prolific collaborator, lending his voice to numerous projects across the rock and metal genres, further showcasing his versatility.
12. Todd La Torre (Queensrÿche)
When Geoff Tate left, fans wondered if Queensrÿche could go on. Todd La Torre didn’t just replace him—he reinvigorated the band with a voice that echoed classic Tate and added his own flair.
La Torre’s vocal prowess and energetic performances won over legions of fans, restoring the band’s former glory.
Fun fact: Before joining Queensrÿche, La Torre made a name for himself as the drummer and vocalist for Crimson Glory, demonstrating his diverse musical talents.