Anyone can become a heavy metal musician. It is a popular genre for amateur bands. If they manage to distinguish themselves, then they could potentially become household names. This has been the case for several groups. They have attained such a high level of acclaim that they have won major music awards. Arguably the most prestigious award of this genre is the Grammy for Best Metal Performance. Bands that have at some point won it include the following.
Nine Inch Nails
Musician Trent Reznor is the mastermind behind NIN. He is a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. Through his band, Reznor has managed to win the Grammy twice. He beat Helmet, Megadeth and Ministry. After NIN, Reznor went on to compose film soundtracks. His work continues to be recognised by award institutions, including the Oscars.
Soundgarden
Soundgarden was recognisable thanks to the melodic and powerful vocals from Chris Cornell. The band is mostly remembered for their iconic single Black Hole Sun. However, it was the track Spoonman that finally gave them a Grammy. They beat Anthrax, Public Enemy, Pantera and the Rollins Band during the 1995 ceremony. Chris Cornell passed away in 2017 and was widely mourned by both listeners and artists in the metal community. Much like Trent Reznor, Cornell scored film soundtracks. This included the 007 film Casino Royale.
Rage Against the Machine
Rage Against the Machine is one of the most politically charged bands in all of heavy metal. In 1997 their track Tire Me beat Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie and Korn for the Grammy. In 2009 there was a successful campaign to push their song Killing In The Name Of to the Christmas number one spot.
Korn
Korn was one of the most successful bands in the subgenre of nu-metal during the early 2000s. They are mostly remembered for the single Freak On A Leash. However, it was their song Here to Stay that nabbed the Grammy, beating Stone Sour, P.O.D and Slipknot.