Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider recently shared his thoughts on the most influential vocalists in heavy metal. In comments posted on X (formerly Twitter), Snider weighed in on the debate surrounding the genre’s iconic vocalists and suggested a potential shift in the celebrated lineup of heavy metal’s “Mount Rushmore.”
Snider’s remarks focused on which vocalists truly deserve recognition as founding figures of heavy metal. He specifically addressed Bruce Dickinson’s place in the legendary lineup, proposing a change.
“As great as I think Bruce is, I’m feeling his MAJOR influence, Ian Gillian, should be there instead of him,” Snider said. “Sorry Bruce. You probably agree.”
This bold statement reflects Snider’s perspective on who has had the biggest impact on shaping the sound and style of heavy metal vocals. While Dickinson’s place in metal history is secure, Snider believes that Ian Gillan, known for his powerful contributions to Deep Purple, should be recognized for his influence on metal vocalists.
Snider went on to elaborate on the vocalists he believes had the most significant influence on heavy metal singing. According to Snider, it’s not just about the clean, high voices that became staples of the genre, but the grittier, raspy voices that helped to shape its evolution.
“John Fogerty. Leslie West. Alice Cooper. It’s the grit in their voices,” Snider explained. “Robert [Plant], Tate, Bruce, Halford, Gillan all have cleaner high voice. Huge influence on metal no doubt. I guess I was focusing on the raspy voices that eventually overpowered heavy metal and led to the extreme screaming/roaring voices in metal today.”
This observation sheds light on Snider’s personal take on what makes a truly influential metal vocalist. He pointed out how the raw, raspy vocal styles of certain artists paved the way for the extreme screams and roars that have come to define modern heavy metal.
The comments from Snider came in response to a widely discussed image featuring a “Heavy Metal Mount Rushmore” lineup, which typically includes Bruce Dickinson, Rob Halford, Ronnie James Dio, and Ozzy Osbourne. While these figures are undeniably monumental in the genre’s history, Snider’s critique highlights the ongoing debate about heavy metal’s foundational voices and their lasting impact on the genre’s development.
Snider’s remarks about Gillan and Dickinson add another layer to the conversation about the true pioneers of heavy metal. His critique suggests that while Dickinson is an undisputed legend, there are other vocalists whose influence has been just as profound, if not more so.
In a genre known for its evolution, this debate is far from over. Snider’s opinion sparks further discussion about the foundational voices that shaped heavy metal, and how new generations of fans and musicians continue to reinterpret the sounds of the past.
