There’s nothing heavier than crushing sadness. It’s something metal bands have been inspired by for generations and, in our opinion, these are the 10 songs that embody sadness at its very zenith.

Even when writing songs about his cat, Peter Steele could tap into sadness like few others. With songs like “Red Water,” “Everything Dies” and “Everyone I Love is Dead” in Type O Negative’s discography, it was tough to pick just one track, but we went with the 11-minute “Bloody Kisses.” Frankly, the track drags you down and keeps you there for an almost unbearable length of time.

If Motorhead’s “1916” can’t make you cry, you certainly have no soul. The song tells the story of troops on the front lines during WWI. Lyrics like, “I heard my friend cry, and he sank to his knees / Coughing blood as he screamed for his mother,” is not for the weak of heart and we wouldn’t recommend too many repeat listens in one day.

One of metal’s saddest days was when guitar legend Dimebag Darrell was gunned down onstage during a Damageplan show. One of Dime’s good friends, Zakk Wylde took his grief to the piano and penned “In This River,” showcasing Wylde’s undeniable soul and ability to make even the burliest metalhead weep like a child.

Check out our picks for the 10 Saddest Metal Songs of All Time in the Loud List above.

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