During an appearance on the sixteenth episode of “The Metallica Report”, James Hetfield spoke about his book “Messengers: The Guitars Of James Hetfield”
James Hetfield, the iconic frontman, guitarist, and songwriter for METALLICA, recently discussed his newly released book, “Messengers: The Guitars Of James Hetfield,” during an interview on the sixteenth episode of “The Metallica Report” podcast. The 400-page book, released on November 21 via Permuted Press, delves into Hetfield’s personal collection of guitars, unveiling the stories and significance behind each instrument in his life and musical career.
Explaining his motivation for creating a book about his guitars, Hetfield expressed, “Having the contacts and connections to put out art forms for me that are outside of music… I did my car book [‘Reclaimed Rust’], so doing a guitar book was the next thing. ‘Reclaimed Rust’ brought up the idea of, ‘Hey, I’ve got all these things sitting in my garage. Why can’t I share them with the world or have them in one book for myself to be able to look at and thumb through easily without having to open the garage doors or open the guitar case after guitar case to look at these guitars?’ So kind of have all these guitars put in one book where I can open it and access it very easily.”
Explaining the choice of the book title, “Messengers,” Hetfield shared, “I had so many different titles for it before I settled on ‘Messengers.’ And ‘Messengers’ just kind of made sense. [My guitars are] the conduit from my higher power through my body, through my digestion, my brain, my fingers into the guitar, through an amp into your ears. It’s a link. It’s a messenger of sorts.”
The book-signing sessions for “Messengers” took place in St. Louis and Detroit, with Hetfield describing the experience as “feel-good.” He highlighted the gratitude expressed by fans and the heartwarming connections between multiple generations attending the events. Hetfield reflected on his own experiences attending concerts with his older brother, emphasizing the significance of witnessing connections between different age groups.
In “Messengers: The Guitars Of James Hetfield,” readers gain insight into the emotional and technical aspects of the guitars that have played a crucial role in shaping Hetfield’s musical journey. The book showcases over forty guitars, including exotic instruments, vintage Gibsons, and custom one-offs. Each guitar is presented alongside lush, museum-quality portraits by photographer Scott Williamson, providing an intimate perspective on these iconic instruments. The book not only offers a visually captivating experience but also serves as a window into the mind and soul of one of rock’s greatest frontmen.
Hetfield’s relentless pursuit of the ideal guitar tone is highlighted in the book. Describing it as a “never-ending quest for the Holy Grail of guitar sounds,” he emphasizes the importance of a percussive and bark-like quality in his tone. The balance between mid push and maintaining a full sound is crucial, as Hetfield strives to create space and sonic depth in his music.
In a promotional video for Ernie Ball, Hetfield delves into his early musical influences, ranging from AC/DC to JUDAS PRIEST and the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal. He acknowledges the impact of bands like IRON MAIDEN, MOTÖRHEAD, and BLACK SABBATH on his musical evolution. Hetfield’s guitar playing mechanics, influenced by the riff-centric style of Tony Iommi and the down-picking speed of Johnny Ramone, have become integral to his distinctive style, blending elements of punk rock and heavy rock.