Kirk Hammett on Other Musicians Covering Metallica: ‘I Love It When People Interpret the Music Through Their Own Filter’

During a recent episode of “The Metallica Report,” the podcast that provides weekly insider updates on all things Metallica, guitarist Kirk Hammett shared his thoughts on other musicians covering Metallica’s music. When asked if he prefers to hear covers played note for note or adapted in a unique way, Hammett responded: “I love it when people interpret the music through their own filter. I think that’s the proper way to play other people’s music.

But I also understand that people like to recreate it note for note to get that same experience of playing those exact notes. So I support both approaches fully. However, I prefer hearing our music filtered through someone else’s perspective because it results in something more individual and personalized. For me, that leads to much more interesting results than simply trying to play it note for note.”

In 2021, Metallica released “The Metallica Blacklist,” a compilation celebrating the 30th anniversary of their self-titled fifth album, also known as “The Black Album.” This ambitious project featured over 50 artists offering unique interpretations of their favorite tracks from the album, spanning a wide range of genres, generations, cultures, and continents. “The Metallica Blacklist” includes contributions from Miley Cyrus, Elton John, Ghоst, Volbeat, Weezer, Corey Taylor, Biffy Clyro, Royal Blооd, St. Vincent, and many more. Pitchfork described it as “easily the most ambitious release of its kind.”

Supporting their latest album, “72 Seasons,” Metallica has embarked on the “M72” tour, featuring two-night, no-repeat shows in each city. The tour started in Europe, moved to North America, and has now returned to Europe. Each concert features a massive ring-shaped stage with the Snake Pit in the center and four equally spaced drum sets around the stage, allowing drummer Lars Ulrich to engage with the audience from various points.

According to Billboard, Metallica’s tour production travels in 87 trucks—45 for the band’s equipment and setup, plus two groups of 21 each for the steel stage and towers. The tour involves 130 crew members, plus 40 steelworkers, local hires, and truck drivers. Metallica’s manager, Cliff Burnstein, mentioned that 80% to 90% of fans attend both shows in each city.

The “M72” tour launched in late April 2023 in Amsterdam and features opening acts such as Five Finger Deаth PuncҺ, Ice Nine Kills, Mammoth WVH, Pantera, Architects, Greta Van Fleet, and Volbeat.

A portion of the proceeds from the shows supports Metallica’s All Within My Hands foundation, which aims to enrich the lives of community members who have supported the band. The foundation combats food insecurity, provides disаster relief, and offers scholarships.