EMG founder explains why Metallica guitarist’s pickup set was most challenging to make
Rob Turner, the founder of EMG pickups, shared insights on the challenges faced while working with Metallica guitarist James Hetfield. Turner revealed that Hetfield’s collaboration pushed the boundaries of EMG’s craftsmanship and methodologies, compelling the firm to innovate significantly. EMG’s association with Metallica predates their debut album, showcasing the essential role EMG’s high-output active pickups played in shaping the band’s iconic sound.
Initially, Kirk Hammett, Metallica’s lead guitarist, reached out to EMG before the band secured their first record deal. The collaboration commenced with Hammett’s purple Stratocaster fitted with two single-coil and a humbucker pickup. However, it was Hetfield’s involvement that truly revolutionized EMG’s approach. Hetfield’s meticulous demands led to the development of custom pickups after an exhaustive process that involved creating 19 different models. Turner remarked on Hetfield’s insistence on having pole pieces, which deviated from EMG’s standard narrow core approach.
The customized pickups for Hetfield posed challenges such as altering coil dimensions to manage excess low-end frequencies. The neck pickup, which incorporated ceramic poles, was particularly arduous due to the unconventional design requirements. Additionally, Hetfield’s preference for a specific finish added complexity to production, as he selected a difficult-to-manufacture black, shiny coating that was prone to scratches. Despite the challenges, the end result was the ‘Het Set,’ an official signature pickup set that redefined EMG’s EMG81 humbuckers and offered a unique and historically significant sound, as per Hetfield’s vision.
The collaboration with Metallica not only revolutionized EMG’s pickup offerings but also solidified the band’s association with EMG pickups, positioning them as a hallmark of heavy metal sound. Hetfield’s exacting nature, coupled with EMG’s commitment to innovation, resulted in groundbreaking pickups that have become iconic in the music industry. The challenges faced during the development process forced EMG to rethink their traditional methods and redesign their pickups to meet Hetfield’s precise requirements.
In a related development, Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine revealed plans to cover Metallica’s “Ride the Lightning,” a song he co-wrote with Hetfield before his departure from Metallica. This announcement underscores the enduring influence of Metallica’s music and the lasting impact of collaborations within the music industry. Overall, the partnership between Metallica and EMG stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and the ability to push creative boundaries to achieve musical excellence.