Metallica, one of the most iconic and influential metal bands in history, has had its fair share of wild tour stories that have become the stuff of rock legend. From the early days of cramped vans and cheap motels to selling out stadiums around the world, the band’s journey has been filled with unforgettable moments. Here are some of the most insane Metallica tour stories that will leave you in awe.
One of the most legendary stories from Metallica’s early days involves their infamous tour with Ozzy Osbourne in 1986. While on the road, the band’s bassist, Cliff Burton, had a habit of sleepwalking. One night, the tour bus stopped abruptly, and the band members woke up to find Cliff standing on the side of the highway in his underwear, completely unaware of how he got there. The incident became a part of Metallica folklore and highlighted the close bond between the band members.
In 1992, during Metallica’s “Wherever We May Roam” tour, the band found themselves in a bizarre situation in Montreal. A riot broke out after fans were angered by the cancellation of the concert due to James Hetfield’s arm injury. The chaos spilled into the streets, resulting in injuries and arrests. The band later returned to Montreal to perform a free concert as a gesture of goodwill, demonstrating their commitment to their fans even in the face of adversity.
Metallica’s 2019 “WorldWired” tour was not without its share of unexpected moments. During a show in Milan, Italy, James Hetfield’s microphone malfunctioned, leaving him unable to sing. Rather than cancel the show, the band continued to perform instrumental versions of their songs while technicians worked frantically to fix the issue. The crowd, impressed by the band’s professionalism and dedication, sang along in unison, turning a potential disaster into a memorable experience for all in attendance.
One of the most heartwarming tour stories involving Metallica occurred in 2013 during their tour of South America. While performing in Bogotá, Colombia, the band was joined on stage by a visually impaired fan named Francisco. Metallica invited Francisco to play drums on their song “Seek & Destroy,” fulfilling his lifelong dream of performing with his favorite band in front of thousands of cheering fans. The touching moment showcased Metallica’s connection with their audience and their willingness to go above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences for their fans.
Metallica’s dedication to their fans and their passion for live performance have solidified their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Their tour stories are a testament to the highs and lows of life on the road, from the absurd and chaotic to the heartwarming and uplifting. As Metallica continues to inspire audiences worldwide with their music and live shows, one thing remains certain – their tour stories will continue to captivate and astonish fans for generations to come.
From sleepwalking bassists to impromptu street concerts, Metallica’s tour escapades have left an indelible mark on rock history, showcasing the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of life on the road. Whether facing riots, technical malfunctions, or fulfilling dreams for their fans, Metallica’s tour stories exemplify the band’s resilience, creativity, and unwavering connection with their audience. As they continue to rock stages around the world, Metallica’s tour adventures will undoubtedly continue to amaze and inspire music lovers everywhere.