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Metallica's Surprising Aerosmith Connection: A Riff Comparison
Did the thrash metal legends subtly 'borrow' a riff from Aerosmith for one of their most iconic tracks?
Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:37am by Ben Kaplan
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The uncanny similarities between Metallica's 'No Leaf Clover' and Aerosmith's 'Last Child' riffs spark a debate over the line between influence and imitation in the world of heavy metal.San Francisco TodayMetallica, the iconic heavy metal band, has long been praised for their musical brilliance, but their history also includes some controversial decisions. One such debate surrounds the possibility that the band may have subtly 'borrowed' a riff from Aerosmith for their track 'No Leaf Clover' on the S&M album. The similarities between the Metallica riff and Aerosmith's 'Last Child' are uncanny, leading some to question whether this was a tribute, a rip-off, or simply the natural evolution of music.
Why it matters
Metallica's legacy is a double-edged sword, with the band both celebrated as one of the greatest metal acts and scrutinized for their more questionable choices. This potential riff similarity raises questions about the line between influence and imitation in the music industry, as well as the complex nature of musical creativity and the borrowing of ideas.
The details
The parallels between the riffs in Metallica's 'No Leaf Clover' and Aerosmith's 'Last Child' are uncanny. While the keys and overall sound differ, with Metallica's version being heavier and more distorted, the note accents and phrasing are strikingly similar. This has led some to speculate that Metallica may have subtly incorporated the Aerosmith riff into their own composition, even if unintentionally. Hetfield has openly acknowledged Aerosmith's influence on him, but the degree of similarity in this case is particularly striking.
- Metallica collaborated with the San Francisco Symphony for the album S&M in the late 1990s, which included the new track 'No Leaf Clover'.
- Aerosmith released 'Last Child' in the 1970s, which features the riff that some believe Metallica may have drawn inspiration from.
The players
Metallica
The iconic heavy metal band known for their musical brilliance and influence on the genre.
Aerosmith
The legendary rock band whose riff in 'Last Child' has been compared to the one used in Metallica's 'No Leaf Clover'.
James Hetfield
The lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of Metallica, who has openly acknowledged Aerosmith's influence on him.
Lars Ulrich
The drummer and co-founder of Metallica, who helped shape the band's sound and direction.
Steven Tyler
The lead vocalist of Aerosmith, whose band's riff has been compared to the one used in Metallica's 'No Leaf Clover'.
What’s next
Fans and music critics will likely continue to debate the extent of Metallica's borrowing from Aerosmith, and whether it constitutes a tribute, a rip-off, or simply the natural evolution of music. The band has not directly addressed the similarities, leaving the door open for further analysis and discussion.
The takeaway
This case highlights the complex and sometimes controversial nature of musical creativity, where the line between influence and imitation can be blurred. It raises questions about the ethics of borrowing riffs and ideas, even from one's own musical heroes, and the importance of maintaining originality and authenticity in the music industry.
