What makes a great hard rock song? It takes killer guitar riffs, ear-splitting bass, thunderous drums, and a vocal performance that cannot be replicated by a mere mortal. Here are 10 masterful compositions of hard rock and early heavy metal for your ultimate mix tape.

#10.  “Painkiller” Judas Priest – Painkiller (1990)

#9.  ”Mr. Crowley” Ozzy Osbourne – Blizzard of Ozz (1980)

#8.  ”Cowboys From Hell” Pantera – Cowboys From Hell (1990)

#7.  ”Ace of Spades” Motorhead – Ace of Spades (1980)

#6.  ”Back In Black” AC/DC – Back In Black (1980)

#5.  ”Black Dog” Led Zeppelin – Led Zeppelin IV (1971)

#4.  ”Raining Blood” Slayer – Reign In Blood (1986)

#3.  ”Master of Puppets” Metallica – Master of Puppets (1986)

#2.  ”The Trooper” Iron Maiden – Piece of Mind (1983)

#1.  ”Children of the Grave” Black Sabbath – Master of Reality (1971)

Top 100 Best Hard Rock Songs List