Papa Roach frontman Jacoby Shaddix, along with bandmates bassist Tobin Esperance and drummer Tony Palermo, recently shared their favorite nu-metal songs of all time. They gave massive shoutouts to genre-defining tracks from Limp Bizkit, Korn, and Deftones.
When asked about his favorite nu-metal song, Shaddix acknowledged his bias toward his own band’s work while crediting another genre legend. “I’d be biased and say ‘Last Resort’ by Papa Roach, but I’ll give it to Limp Bizkit ‘Break Stuff,'” the frontman revealed. Esperance highlighted Korn’s influence on the genre. “Korn’s ‘Blind.’ The first time I heard that opening intro to ‘Blind’ I was like, ‘Oh sh*t, this is something that I haven’t heard before,'” he stated. Drummer Tony Palermo also contributed his pick. “I know Deftones don’t like to be coined as nü-metal, but ‘Shove It’ is up there,” he said.
The band’s appreciation for these classic nu-metal tracks reflects their deep roots in a genre that shaped their musical identity. Understanding how Papa Roach has developed their signature sound over the years provides insight into why these particular tracks resonate with them.
Jacoby Shaddix discussed the band’s comprehensive musical approach in an interview with Wikimetal. Papa Roach draws from four distinct styles that define their identity. The band incorporates heavy rock and metal with big riffs, rap metal elements, emotional and sentimental songs, and various other influences that have allowed them to remain relevant across multiple decades. Tracks like “Getting Away With Murder” exemplify their heavy side. Songs like “Last Resort” represent their rap metal sound.
The band’s willingness to blend multiple genres has been central to their longevity in the music industry. By refusing to be confined to a single sound, Papa Roach has maintained creative flexibility while honoring the nu-metal roots that made them famous. This philosophy likely influences which classic tracks the band members choose as their personal favorites.
