2010s Japanese Metal Band Revives a Classic Hit for Its 15th Anniversary

BABYMETAL kicked off the year with a bang after reviving one of its early fan-favorite songs after 14 years.

The Japanese kawaii metal band, whose global fame skyrocketed in the early 2010s, is celebrating a major career milestone.

Marking their 15th anniversary, the three-piece girl band, consisting of Suzuka Nakamoto, Moa Kikuchi and Momoko Okazaki, put a modern spin on their iconic song “Headbangeeeeerrrrr!!!!!”

On BABYMETAL’s official YouTube channel, the band dropped a re-recorded version of the 2012 song as they honored the sound that helped launch their international rise.

Re-introducing the new version to OG fans and new listeners, it features a more powerful mix that emphasizes the metal side as well as thicker guitar tones and punchier drums.

Fans on social media celebrated BABYMETAL for its groundbreaking role in blending idol pop and heavy metal.

“Happy 15th anniversary to the Babymetal community,” one wrote on their YouTube post.

“3:39 you can hear Su-metal’s mature voice come through when she sings ‘the special night of my 15’” a user pointed out.

“HEADBANGER IS SO BACK, BABY. MOMO VOCALS LIVE ALWAYS WERE AMAZING..BUT HER GROWLS IN THIS VERSION ARE SO GOOD,” a commenter remarked.

Moreover, fans also mentioned that the re-recorded song served as a tribute to Mikio Fujioka, also known as Ko-Gami, the guitarist of BABYMETAL’s backing band, the Kami Band, who sadly passed away at the age of 36 on Jan 5 2018.

“I really love how they did an homage to Mikio Fujioka as well. We will never forget such a talented artist,” a follower remarked.

“This video is a tribute to the late Kami Band guitarist Mikio Fujioka. The video was released on the 8th anniversary of Mikio’s death (Jan 5 2018). The ghostly figure in white with long hair represents Mikio. The filming location is reportedly in Mikio’s hometown,” a commenter said.

“R.I.P FUJIOKA,” another added.

BABYMETAL Makes Billboard 200 History

In Aug 2025, the group released its newest album METAL FORTH. Their fifth studio album includes a slew of collaborations with notable musicians such as Poppy, Tom Morello and Electric Callboy.

Following the release, BABYMETAL made history as the first all-Japanese fronted band to enter the top ten of the Billboard 200. At the time, their album debuted at No. 9 on the U.S.-based chart.

Expressing their gratitude to fans and listeners, the group celebrated global growth.

“Thank you so much for your support on our new album ‘METAL FORTH‘ around the world! We hope you enjoy it! Our music & career are evolving globally, and we are moving forward with ‘Beyond HEAVY METAL.’ Our journey continues, and we can’t wait to see you at BABYMETAL shows in your city and your country,” as mentioned in a press release, as stated by The PRP News.

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