Metallica's Immortal Inspiration: Hetfield and Ulrich on Lemmy Kilmister's Legacy

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When Metallica first burst onto the scene, there was an undeniable synergy between James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich. These two musicians formed a dynamic duo, much like Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones. Their musical connection went beyond just playing riffs; it was a shared vision and passion that drove the band forward. Hetfield and Ulrich's backgrounds couldn't have been more different, but their love for music brought them together, and they found solace in the stereo at home.

Why it matters

Hetfield and Ulrich's musical partnership and friendship are a testament to their shared vision and passion for music, which has resonated with fans worldwide. Their admiration for Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead, who had a significant influence on Metallica's sound and style, highlights the enduring impact of the godfather of heavy metal.

The details

Ulrich was already a fan of the emerging British heavy metal scene, with bands like Black Sabbath and Deep Purple paving the way. Hetfield, on the other hand, was drawn to the raw energy of bands like Judas Priest and Iron Maiden. Despite their different influences, they found common ground in artists like Diamond Head and Raven, which shaped their unique sound. Hetfield's admiration for Lemmy is evident, calling him one of the godfathers of heavy metal. Ulrich, too, shares this sentiment, acknowledging Lemmy's influence on Metallica's repertoire.

• Metallica first burst onto the scene in the early 1980s.
• Hetfield and Ulrich have maintained their musical partnership and friendship for over four decades.

What they’re saying