Metallica's frontman, James Hetfield, has made it clear that the iconic band has no intention of becoming a "legacy band" focused solely on past hits. In a recent episode of The Metallica Report, Hetfield reflected on the band’s record-breaking world tour and how the success of 72 Seasons is shaping their future.
With over three million fans attending the tour since it launched in April 2023, Hetfield emphasized the importance of striking a balance between classic tracks and fresh material: “We’re not afraid of it, but we’re not overindulging in it as well. We know people wanna hear the ‘best of’. And you’ve gotta challenge them to listen to some of the new stuff as well, ’cause we certainly don’t wanna be a legacy band that just plays their greatest hits and then that’s it.”
Hetfield also shared insights into their approach to live performances, embracing imperfection: “That’s part of what we say before we go out: ‘Hey, all mistakes are free. And it’s not a mistake. Really, that word is kind of ridiculous in a way. It’s just a unique way of playing it that night. Everyone gets to enjoy whatever happens right then. And frankly, I think it’s a challenge.”
Looking ahead to their upcoming M72 shows in 2025, Metallica plans to continue their “No Repeat Weekend” tradition, offering completely different setlists and support acts across two nights. Fans can expect massive opening acts like Pantera, Limp Bizkit, Suicidal Tendencies, and Ice Nine Kills.
For Hetfield, this freedom to play, experiment, and occasionally mess up is what keeps Metallica fresh and engaging after all these years. “There’s been times when I’ve edited out a whole middle section and then at the end of the song said, ‘Oh my God, I forgot to play that part here. Let’s just play it for you.’ There’s a freedom up there that the fans allow, there’s a grace that they allow us to be human. So there is a confidence that you can’t go wrong. You just can’t go wrong. You show up and you do your best and you know it’s from the heart.”
