Best Heavy Metal Music Books of 2025

Definitely: The Official Story of Def Leppard is a comprehensive record of the band's history from their humble beginnings to their stratospheric success. Narrated by the band members themselves, the book is filled with rare photographs, handwritten notes, album artwork drafts, and more. The band's triumphs and challenges are chronicled, including drummer Rick Allen's accident and the death of bandmate Steve Clark. The book also features archive text from past members. Overall, Definitely is a must-read for any Def Leppard fan, providing an intimate look at the band's journey to becoming one of the world's best-selling music artists.

Into the Void: From Birth to Black Sabbath―And Beyond is a must-read memoir for any heavy metal fan. Geezer Butler, the band's bassist and main lyricist, provides an honest and engaging account of Black Sabbath's formation and success, as well as his personal life and influences. The book offers a unique perspective on the band's struggles and triumphs, and sheds light on the creative process behind their iconic music. Butler's writing is as original and dramatic as his bass lines, making this an unforgettable read for anyone interested in the history of heavy metal.

Goth: A History is a fascinating deep dive into the goth music and culture by co-founder of The Cure, Lol Tolhurst. The book offers an entertaining and engaging historical memoir of the genre, exploring creative giants like The Cure, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bauhaus, Joy Division, and many more great bands that offered a place of refuge for the misfits of the 80s and ever since. It also covers the origins of goth, its expansion overseas, and the legacy of goth music. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of goth and its influence on music, film, TV, visual arts, social media, and beyond.

The "Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women" is a collection of 25 real-life stories from women who have achieved an authentic life honoring their individuality and freedom of personal expression. The book features powerful affirmations and stunning photography, encouraging readers to dig deep into their own creative lives. The stories are raw and authentic, covering issues such as depression, bullying, infertility, cancer, assault, loss of loved ones, and drug addiction. The book is an inspiring read for women who are seeking an extra boost of bravery or want to feel more positive about the world. Overall, it is a unique and empowering book that showcases the strength and resilience of women from all walks of life.

The Decade That Rocked is a must-read for any heavy metal fan. Mark "Weissguy" Weiss's iconic and never-before-published photography captures the biggest names from the '80s hard rock scene, including Jon Bon Jovi, Ozzy Osbourne, and Mötley Crüe. The book features high-quality images that exemplify the trust and synergy between photographer and subject, and you can feel the essence of the music in the live shots. The book is a testament to Weiss's rock n' roll photographic legacy and sets an unmatched standard for rock photography. Overall, this book is a fantastic tribute to the golden era of heavy metal and a perfect gift for any heavy metal fan.

50 Years of Rolling Stone: The Music, Politics and People that Shaped Our Culture is a unique gift book that takes readers on a decade-by-decade exploration of American music and history. From the 1960s revolution to the pop of today, iconic photographs and interviews with rock legends like Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, and Kurt Cobain, alongside feature articles and exposés by quintessential writers such as Hunter S. Thompson and Matt Taibbi, make this book an essential keepsake of the magazine that has defined American music. This book is a must-have for any rock music lover’s collection.

The Lives of Brian: A Memoir is the story of Brian Johnson, the lead singer of AC/DC, from his humble beginnings in a working-class town in England to his rise to fame after replacing Bon Scott. The book takes readers on a journey through Johnson's life and career, including the recording of the iconic album Back in Black, which became the biggest selling rock album of all time. Overall, this memoir is a must-read for fans of AC/DC and heavy metal music, as it provides a unique insight into the life of one of the genre's most iconic figures.

Slash, the memoir by legendary rock guitarist Slash, takes readers on a wild ride through the highs and lows of his time with Guns N’ Roses. From the band’s formation to their eventual downfall, Slash offers an inside look at the music that defined an era and the craziness that came with it. The book is honest, funny, and at times excessive, giving readers a front-row seat to one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll machines in history. With entertaining and educational content, this book is a must-read for aspiring rock gods and fans alike.

Alice Cooper at 75 is an exquisitely produced book that captures the extraordinary life and career of the original "shock rocker" through 75 key releases and events. Veteran rock journalist Gary Graff presents this rock icon through the lens of 75 career accomplishments, events, and partnerships. This volume features stunning concert and candid offstage photography, images of memorabilia, and a gatefold Alice Cooper timeline. From Cooper's childhood in Detroit to his latest release, this book covers it all. Overall, this lavishly produced celebration of the iconic and beloved rock star is a must-have for any Alice Cooper fan.

The Gospel According to Luke is an autobiography of Steve Lukather, the lead guitarist and singer of Toto, where he shares the complete story of the band's success and their contribution to the music industry. The book also sheds light on the creative processes of legendary names in music such as Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, and many others. Lukather's memoir is engaging, frank, and often hilarious, making it a must-read for all rock music enthusiasts. The book is published by Post Hill Press and falls under the category of Rock Music Books.