Home Entertainment WOLFGANG VAN HALEN was honored to participate in Metallica’s special M72 tour and praised them: “They are very, very great people”

WOLFGANG VAN HALEN was honored to participate in Metallica’s special M72 tour and praised them: “They are very, very great people”

Entertainment — 12/14/2023

Wolfgang Van Halen, the frontman of MAMMOTH WVH, recently shared his experience opening for METALLICA on their “M72” world tour during an interview with Matt Pinfield on 95.5 KLOS’s “New & Approved” show. Expressing gratitude, Wolfgang emphasized the pleasure and honor of being part of such an extraordinary tour. He praised the kindness of METALLICA’s crew and especially highlighted the supportive nature of the band members, who frequently visited the dressing room to check on the MAMMOTH WVH team.

Wolfgang mentioned the uniqueness of performing in the round in the middle of a stadium, describing the stage as “insane, extravagant, and hilarious.” He acknowledged the initial shock but shared that after about nine or ten shows, they became accustomed to the unconventional setup. Wolfgang expressed his excitement and honor to be part of the tour, emphasizing the wonderful experience of working with METALLICA.

Reflecting on how MAMMOTH WVH secured the opening slot, Wolfgang recounted meeting METALLICA drummer Lars Ulrich at the Taylor Hawkins tribute concert in London in September 2022. The encounter led to an unexpected invitation to join the entire tour, making MAMMOTH WVH the only opener playing every building with METALLICA.

Describing the stage design of the “M72” tour, Wolfgang noted the unprecedented nature of the in-the-round setup, relocating the METALLICA Snake Pit to center stage. He shared the band’s initial shock during soundcheck and described the experience of playing in front of a live audience as “unreal” and “absolutely crazy.”

MAMMOTH WVH’s journey with METALLICA began on April 27 at the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Despite the initial challenges of adapting to the unique stage setup, Wolfgang expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity and considered it an honor to share the stage with METALLICA.


Wolfgang Van Halen, the former bassist of VAN HALEN and son of the late guitarist Eddie Van Halen, showcased his gratitude for the chance to be part of this remarkable musical experience alongside METALLICA.