In the realm of rock and metal, each guitar virtuoso weaves a unique tapestry of influences that shapes their distinctive sound. Bill Kelliher, the talented guitarist of Mastodon, is no exception. His musical journey, as he recently revealed in an exclusive interview with Guitar Summit, is a rich tapestry woven with diverse influences, with one iconic figure standing out as a transformative force – James Hetfield of Metallica.

Diverse Influences:

Bill Kelliher’s guitar skills have been instrumental in defining Mastodon’s progressive sound, characterized by raw power and intricate sonic landscapes. His musical influences range from the legendary Jimi Hendrix to the iconic Van Halen, the complex rhythms of Rush to the harmonies of The Beach Boys, and the instrumental finesse of The Ventures to the timeless melodies of The Beatles. Yet, it was the discovery of punk rock, particularly the influence of Johnny Ramone, that altered Kelliher’s playing dynamic, introducing him to the beauty of simplicity and impactful single-chord resonances.

James Hetfield’s Impact:

However, among the array of influences, James Hetfield emerged as a pivotal figure in Bill Kelliher’s musical evolution. Delving into Metallica’s catalog, Kelliher found in Hetfield a hero whose guitar style resonated with his own developing skills. He expressed, “I’m getting good enough where I can play like that guy.” Hetfield’s rhythm guitar prowess became a guiding light for Kelliher, representing the epitome of songwriting and rhythm.

A Grateful Encounter:

The defining moment came when Bill Kelliher had the opportunity to meet James Hetfield in person. Expressing his gratitude, Kelliher thanked Hetfield for teaching him how to play guitar. Hetfield, seemingly taken aback, responded with humility, not fully comprehending the impact he had. Kelliher clarified, recounting how he would buy Metallica records, learn from them daily, and attribute his rhythm guitar skills to Hetfield’s influence.

Emulating Hetfield:

For Kelliher, emulating Hetfield meant more than just replicating a guitar style. It led him to acquire specific gear, including a Gibson Explorer and amplifiers similar to Hetfield’s setup, mirroring the iconic Metallica look. Hetfield’s influence on Kelliher extended beyond guitar techniques; it encompassed an entire aesthetic that resonated with the grungy, punk rock ethos that defined Kelliher’s identity.

Perspective on Other Metal Bands:

Reflecting on his formative years, Kelliher shared an interesting perspective on bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest. Initially finding their operatic style less appealing, he preferred the more rugged image of bands like Metallica. However, he acknowledges that with time, he has come to appreciate the greatness of Iron Maiden, recognizing their impact on the metal scene.

Bill Kelliher’s guitar journey, shaped by diverse influences and anchored by James Hetfield’s rhythmic genius, serves as a testament to the evolving nature of musical inspiration. From punk rock simplicity to the intricate rhythms of Metallica, Kelliher’s trajectory showcases the transformative power of iconic figures in shaping the artistic identity of a musician.