History of Metallica in Timeline
Metallica, formed in 1981 by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich, is an American heavy metal band renowned for their aggressive musicianship and fast tempos. They are considered one of the "big four" thrash metal bands, alongside Megadeth, Anthrax, and Slayer. Based in San Francisco, their current lineup includes Hetfield, Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo. Past members include Dave Mustaine (founder of Megadeth), Ron McGovney, Cliff Burton, and Jason Newsted.
October 28, 1981: Formation of Metallica
On October 28, 1981, Metallica was officially formed, five months after Lars Ulrich and James Hetfield first met through an advertisement in The Recycler.
1981: Metallica Formation
In 1981, Metallica was formed in Los Angeles by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich. The band quickly became one of the founders of thrash metal alongside Megadeth, Anthrax, and Slayer. The band's aggressive musicianship and fast tempos set them apart from their peers.
March 14, 1982: First Live Performance
On March 14, 1982, Metallica performed live for the first time at Radio City in Anaheim, California, with newly recruited bassist Ron McGovney.
June 14, 1982: Release of Metal Massacre I Compilation
On June 14, 1982, Metallica's first original song, 'Hit the Lights,' was included in the Metal Massacre I compilation, which generated significant word of mouth for the band.
1982: Recruitment of Cliff Burton
In 1982, Metallica recruited bassist Cliff Burton after being impressed by his performance at a show in West Hollywood.
1982: Signing with Megaforce Records
In 1982, Metallica signed with Megaforce Records after concert promoter Jonathan Zazula brokered a record deal when other labels showed no interest.
1982: Metallica and Mötley Crüe's Early Feud
Metallica and Mötley Crüe's rivalry began in the early 1980s, fueled by clashes in the Los Angeles rock scene and public criticism from both bands.
March 1983: First Live Performance with Cliff Burton
In March 1983, Metallica performed live for the first time with bassist Cliff Burton at the nightclub The Stone.
April 11, 1983: Dave Mustaine Ejected from Band
On April 11, 1983, Metallica decided to eject guitarist Dave Mustaine from the band due to his drug and alcohol abuse and violent behavior.
April 16, 1983: First Live Performance with Kirk Hammett
On April 16, 1983, Metallica performed live for the first time with new guitarist Kirk Hammett at The Showplace in Dover, New Jersey.
May 1983: Recording of Debut Album
In May 1983, Metallica traveled to Rochester, New York, to record their debut album, Metal Up Your Ass, with producer Paul Curcio.
1983: Dave Mustaine Fired from Metallica
In 1983, Dave Mustaine was fired from Metallica due to his alcoholism and conflicts with the band members.
February 1984: Metallica Supports Venom on Seven Dates of Hell Tour
In February 1984, Metallica joined Venom on their "Seven Dates of Hell" tour, which included a notable performance at the Aardschok Festival in Zwolle, Netherlands, in front of 7,000 fans.
February 1984: Coinage of the Term Thrash Metal
In February 1984, the term 'thrash metal' was coined by Kerrang! journalist Malcolm Dome, describing the genre that Metallica had become a key player in.
March 1984: Recording of Ride the Lightning
Metallica spent February and March of 1984 at Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, Denmark, recording their second studio album, "Ride the Lightning".
August 1984: Release of Ride the Lightning
August 1984 marked the release of Metallica's second studio album, "Ride the Lightning", which peaked at 100 on the Billboard 200 chart. Interestingly, a printing error in France resulted in a limited run of albums with green covers, now treasured by collectors.
September 1984: Metallica Signs with Elektra Records and Q-Prime Management
Impressed by their performance, Elektra Records A&R director Michael Alago and Q-Prime Management co-founder Cliff Burnstein signed Metallica in September 1984, marking a pivotal moment in the band's career.
August 17, 1985: Metallica's Performance at Monsters of Rock
Metallica took the stage at Donington Park in England on August 17, 1985, for the renowned Monsters of Rock festival. Sharing the stage with rock giants Bon Jovi and Ratt, Metallica delivered a powerful performance to a crowd of 70,000.
December 1985: Completion of Master of Puppets Recording
Metallica concluded the recording of their highly acclaimed album "Master of Puppets" at Sweet Silence Studios in December 1985, after several months of dedicated work.
1985: Dave Mustaine expresses Dislike for Kirk Hammett
In 1985, Dave Mustaine, former member of Metallica and founder of Megadeth, publicly criticized Kirk Hammett in interviews. He accused Hammett of "stealing" his job and taking credit for guitar leads Mustaine believes he wrote while in Metallica.
March 1986: Release of Master of Puppets
Metallica released their critically acclaimed third studio album, "Master of Puppets," in March 1986. This album, a defining moment in thrash metal, achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 29 on the Billboard 200.
September 27, 1986: Tragic Death of Cliff Burton
On September 27, 1986, a tour bus accident near Dörarp, Sweden, resulted in the tragic death of Metallica bassist Cliff Burton. The bus driver lost control, leading to a crash that fatally injured Burton, while other band members sustained minor injuries. This event deeply affected the band and the metal community.
November 4, 1986: Master of Puppets Achieves Gold Certification
Metallica's album "Master of Puppets" reached gold status on November 4, 1986, a significant milestone reflecting its growing popularity and commercial success. It would later become their first album to achieve six-times Platinum certification in 2003.
1986: Jason Newsted Joins Metallica
Jason Newsted joined Metallica as their bassist in 1986.
1986: Kill 'Em All Charts on Billboard 200
Metallica's debut album, "Kill 'Em All", peaked at number 155 on the Billboard 200 in 1986. Though not an immediate financial success, the album steadily gained traction and significantly contributed to the band's growing fanbase within the underground metal community.
1986: Release of Master of Puppets
In 1986, Metallica released their third album, Master of Puppets, which became a commercial success and is often cited as one of the heaviest metal albums ever produced.
February 1987: Metallica Concludes Tour and Newsted's First Performances
Metallica finished their tour in February 1987, marking the end of a challenging period for the band. This tour included Jason Newsted's first live performances as their new bassist, officially introducing him to the world as Cliff Burton's replacement.
March 1987: Hetfield's Wrist Injury and Cancelled SNL Appearance
In March 1987, James Hetfield broke his wrist while skateboarding, forcing the band to cancel a scheduled appearance on the popular television show "Saturday Night Live." This injury highlighted the physical demands placed on musicians, especially in high-energy genres like metal.
August 1987: Release of The $5.98 E.P. - Garage Days Re-Revisited
Metallica released "The $5.98 E.P. - Garage Days Re-Revisited" in August 1987. This EP, featuring covers of various rock and metal songs, allowed the band to explore new creative avenues, showcase Jason Newsted's musical abilities, and provide a cathartic outlet following Cliff Burton's death.
May 1988: ...And Justice for All Recording Completed
Metallica wrapped up the recording sessions for their fourth studio album, "...And Justice for All", in May 1988. This album marked their first full-length release with Jason Newsted on bass and reflected a period of significant transition for the band.
1988: Reissue of Kill 'Em All with Bonus Tracks
Elektra Records re-released "Kill 'Em All" in 1988, featuring bonus tracks "Am I Evil?" (a Diamond Head cover) and "Blitzkrieg" (a Blitzkrieg cover), offering fans additional material and showcasing the band's influences.
1988: First Grammy Award Nomination
In 1988, Metallica received their first Grammy Award nomination for their album ...And Justice for All, marking a significant milestone in their career.
1989: Metallica's First Grammy Nomination and Controversial Loss
Metallica received their first Grammy nomination in 1989 for "...And Justice for All" in the Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance Vocal or Instrument category. Despite being favored to win, the award went to Jethro Tull, sparking controversy and debate about the Grammys' recognition of heavy metal.
1989: Metallica Impressed by Dr. Feelgood
Despite their dislike for glam metal, Metallica acknowledged the success of Mötley Crüe's album 'Dr. Feelgood' in 1989, eventually hiring its producer, Bob Rock.
October 1990: Metallica Starts Recording "The Black Album"
In October 1990, Metallica started recording their self-titled fifth studio album, widely known as "The Black Album," at One on One Recording's studio in North Hollywood.
September 1991: Metallica Makes History in Moscow
Metallica's performance at the Monsters of Rock festival in Moscow in September 1991 marked a pivotal moment, becoming the first open-air rock concert in the former Soviet Union.
1991: Nielsen SoundScan Best-Selling Album
Following its release in 1991, Metallica's album Metallica became the best-selling album of the SoundScan era, selling more than 16 million copies in the United States.
1991: Release of Metallica (The Black Album)
In 1991, Metallica released their fifth album, Metallica, also known as The Black Album. This album marked a turning point for the band, achieving substantial commercial success and appealing to a more mainstream audience.
1991: Metallica's Musical Shift and Commercial Success
In 1991, Metallica, with producer Bob Rock, streamlined their sound for broader appeal, resulting in their first Billboard number one album, marking a significant commercial milestone.
1991: Metallica Hires Bob Rock
Metallica hired Bob Rock, producer of Mötley Crüe's 'Dr. Feelgood', to produce their self-titled fifth album in 1991.
1991: Michael Kamen Approaches Metallica with Symphonic Collaboration Idea
Michael Kamen, who had worked with Bob Rock on "Nothing Else Matters," approached Metallica in 1991 with the idea of merging their music with a symphony orchestra.
April 1992: Metallica Honors Freddie Mercury
In a tribute to the late Queen frontman, Metallica delivered a powerful three-song set at The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert in April 1992. James Hetfield further showcased his respect by performing "Stone Cold Crazy" alongside the remaining members of Queen and Tony Iommi.
August 8, 1992: Hetfield Injured in Pyrotechnics Accident
Tragedy struck on August 8, 1992, at the Olympic Stadium in Montreal during the Guns N' Roses/Metallica Stadium Tour. James Hetfield suffered second- and third-degree burns from a pyrotechnics malfunction during "Fade to Black." Despite the setback, Metallica returned to the stage after 17 days, showcasing their resilience.
November 1993: Metallica Releases "Live Shit: Binge & Purge" Box Set
Metallica treated fans to "Live Shit: Binge & Purge" in November 1993, their first-ever box set. This collection served as a testament to their intense live performances, featuring three live CDs, three home videos, and a book.
1993: Megadeth Opens for Metallica in Europe
Megadeth, fronted by Dave Mustaine, opened for Metallica on several European tour dates in 1993, signaling a potential truce in their feud.
1995: Metallica Takes a Break and Embraces Change
After intense touring for "Metallica," the band went on a brief hiatus in 1995, returning for a short tour, "Escape from the Studio '95." This period marked a shift in Metallica's musical approach and a change in their appearance, with the members cutting their hair.
1996: Metallica Releases "Load" and Headlines Lollapalooza
Metallica's 1996 album "Load" debuted at number one, showcasing a new musical direction and sparking debate with its controversial cover art. That same year, the band headlined the alternative rock festival Lollapalooza, highlighting their evolving sound and influence.
1996: Load Era: Grunge Influence and Fan Reactions
Metallica's 1996 album "Load" reflected alternative rock influences and a lyrical shift towards themes of anger and loss. The band's stylistic changes, including haircuts and headlining Lollapalooza, sparked mixed reactions from fans and critics.
December 1997: Metallica Performs on Saturday Night Live
Metallica graced the stage of NBC's Saturday Night Live in December 1997, performing "Fuel" and "The Memory Remains" alongside Marianne Faithfull, further demonstrating their musical versatility and mainstream appeal.
1997: Feud Reignited at American Music Awards
Lars Ulrich accused Mötley Crüe of using backing tracks at the 1997 American Music Awards, reigniting the feud between the bands.
1997: ReLoad: Exploring Blues and Hard Rock
Metallica's 1997 album "ReLoad" further explored blues and early hard rock influences, incorporating more rhythm and harmony into their song structures.
1998: Metallica Releases "Garage Inc." - A Tribute to their Influences
Metallica paid homage to their musical roots with the release of "Garage Inc." in 1998. This double album featured a collection of new and old cover songs, reflecting their diverse influences and showcasing their enduring love for music that ignited their passion.
March 7, 1999: Metallica Inducted into San Francisco Walk of Fame
Metallica was honored with a star on the San Francisco Walk of Fame on March 7, 1999, with the city declaring it "Official Metallica Day."
1999: MTV Recognizes Metallica's "One" Video
In 1999, MTV recognized Metallica's innovative music video for "One" as a landmark achievement. It was ranked 38th on their "Top 100 Videos of All Time" and was featured in their 25th-anniversary special, ADD Video, showcasing the most popular videos in MTV's history.
1999: Metallica Records with the San Francisco Symphony
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Metallica joined forces with the San Francisco Symphony in 1999 for two unforgettable performances led by conductor Michael Kamen. The event resulted in the release of the "S&M" album and concert film, showcasing a unique fusion of heavy metal and orchestral music.
July 11, 2000: Ulrich Testifies Before Congress
Lars Ulrich, on July 11, 2000, stood before the Senate Judiciary Committee, delivering a powerful statement against copyright infringement in the digital age. His testimony highlighted the challenges faced by artists in protecting their work and sparked a broader conversation about intellectual property rights.
2000: Metallica Discovers "I Disappear" Leak on Napster
In 2000, Metallica discovered a leaked demo of their song "I Disappear" on Napster, a peer-to-peer file-sharing platform. This discovery ignited a legal battle over copyright infringement and shaped the future of digital music distribution.
2000: Lawsuit Against Napster
In 2000, Metallica led a high-profile case against the peer-to-peer file-sharing service Napster for sharing their copyright-protected material without consent. The case eventually reached a settlement.
2000: Tensions over Echobrain Side Project
Tensions between Jason Newsted and James Hetfield escalated in 2000 when Hetfield repeatedly blocked Newsted's attempts to pursue his side project, Echobrain.
2000: Napster Controversy at the MTV VMAs
At the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards, Lars Ulrich and Marlon Wayans performed a skit criticizing Napster for music piracy, sparking controversy and highlighting Metallica's stance against online music sharing.
January 2001: Jason Newsted Leaves Metallica
Jason Newsted left Metallica in January 2001 after years of creative frustrations and tensions with band members.
January 17, 2001: Jason Newsted Departs from Metallica
On January 17, 2001, Jason Newsted announced his departure from Metallica, citing personal reasons and the physical toll of performing. His departure created a significant vacancy in the band's lineup.
April 2001: Filming Begins for "Some Kind of Monster"
In April 2001, filmmakers Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky began documenting Metallica's recording process, capturing over 1,000 hours of footage that would later become the documentary "Metallica: Some Kind of Monster."
July 19, 2001: Hetfield Enters Rehab
On July 19, 2001, James Hetfield entered rehab for alcohol and other addictions, putting Metallica's recording plans on hold and raising concerns about the band's future.
December 4, 2001: Hetfield Completes Rehab
On December 4, 2001, James Hetfield completed rehab and prepared to rejoin Metallica, marking a turning point in his recovery and the band's ability to resume their musical endeavors.
April 12, 2002: Metallica Returns to the Studio
On April 12, 2002, Metallica returned to the recording studio after Hetfield's return from rehab, marking a significant step in their journey to create their next album.
June 3, 2002: Napster Files for Bankruptcy
Napster filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on June 3, 2002, marking a significant turning point in the legal battle over music sharing and its impact on the music industry.
September 3, 2002: Napster Liquidates Assets
Following a U.S. bankruptcy judge's decision to block its sale, Napster was forced to liquidate its assets on September 3, 2002, signaling the end of an era for the pioneering file-sharing service.
June 2003: "St. Anger" Released
Metallica released their eighth studio album, "St. Anger," in June 2003, receiving mixed reactions for its raw sound and departure from their previous work.
2003: Summer Sanitarium Tour 2003
Metallica embarked on the Summer Sanitarium Tour 2003 to support "St. Anger," showcasing their new music and continuing their tradition of large-scale tours.
2003: Metallica Receives MTV Icon Award
Metallica received the MTV Icon Award in 2003, with a tribute concert featuring various artists performing their songs, showcasing their impact on the music world.
2003: Master of Puppets Certified Six Times Platinum
In 2003, "Master of Puppets" achieved the impressive feat of being certified six times Platinum, cementing its status as a landmark album in heavy metal history and demonstrating its enduring popularity.
2003: Release of St. Anger
In 2003, Metallica released their eighth album, St. Anger, which was documented in the film Metallica: Some Kind of Monster, showcasing the band's internal struggles during its production.
2003: Nikki Sixx Praises 'St. Anger'
Despite the ongoing feud, Nikki Sixx praised Metallica's album 'St. Anger' in a 2003 interview.
2003: Robert Trujillo Joins Metallica
After an extensive audition process, Robert Trujillo, formerly of Suicidal Tendencies and Ozzy Osbourne's band, joined Metallica as their new bassist in 2003, filling the vacancy left by Jason Newsted.
January 2004: "Metallica: Some Kind of Monster" Premieres at Sundance
The documentary "Metallica: Some Kind of Monster," capturing the band's struggles and triumphs, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2004, offering an intimate look into their world.
2004: "St. Anger" Wins Grammy Award
In 2004, Metallica's "St. Anger" won the Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance, recognizing the song's impact and significance within the metal genre.
2004: Release of Metallica: Some Kind of Monster
In 2004, the documentary film Metallica: Some Kind of Monster was released, documenting the troubled production of the band's eighth album, St. Anger, and internal struggles within the band.
2004: Hetfield Reflects on "Load" and "Reload" Material
In the 2004 documentary "Metallica: Some Kind of Monster," James Hetfield revealed the band's initial uncertainty about some songs on "Load" and "Reload." He explained that they reworked and refined these tracks until they met their standards for release.
2004: Ulrich's Health Scare at Download Festival
Lars Ulrich experienced an anxiety seizure before Metallica's set at the 2004 Download Festival, leading to a last-minute drummer lineup featuring Dave Lombardo, Joey Jordison, and Flemming Larsen.
2005: Metallica Takes a Break and Opens for The Rolling Stones
After extensive touring, Metallica took a break in 2005, spending time with family and friends before opening for The Rolling Stones in San Francisco.
February 2006: Metallica Parts Ways with Bob Rock
After 15 years, Metallica announced their decision to part ways with long-time producer Bob Rock and work with Rick Rubin for their next album, marking a significant change in their creative direction.
April 8, 2006: Kerrang! Releases Metallica Tribute Album
Kerrang! magazine released a tribute album for the 20th anniversary of "Master of Puppets" on April 8, 2006, featuring covers by bands like Machine Head and Trivium, highlighting Metallica's influence on the metal scene.
September 10, 2006: Metallica Guest Stars on The Simpsons
Metallica made a guest appearance on The Simpsons' season premiere on September 10, 2006, further solidifying their place in popular culture.
December 2006: "The Videos 1989–2004" DVD Release
Metallica released a DVD compilation, "The Videos 1989–2004," in December 2006, showcasing their evolution through music videos spanning their career.
2006: Tommy Lee and Jason Newsted on 'Rock Star: Supernova
Tommy Lee of Mötley Crüe and former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted participated in the reality show 'Rock Star: Supernova' in 2006.
February 2007: Metallica Contributes to Ennio Morricone Tribute Album
Metallica recorded a guitar-driven rendition of Ennio Morricone's "The Ecstasy of Gold" for the tribute album "We All Love Ennio Morricone," released in February 2007, showcasing their musical versatility.
2007: Metallica's Influence on Machine Head's "The Blackening"
Machine Head drew inspiration from Metallica's "Master of Puppets" when creating their 2007 album "The Blackening," aiming for a similarly powerful and enduring impact.
September 2, 2008: "Death Magnetic" Leaks Online
"Death Magnetic" was leaked online after a French record store began selling copies ahead of the release date.
September 10, 2008: "Death Magnetic" Officially Released
Due to the leak, Metallica's UK distributor, Vertigo Records, officially released "Death Magnetic" on September 10, 2008.
September 12, 2008: "Death Magnetic" Release Date
Metallica's album "Death Magnetic" was scheduled for release on September 12, 2008.
November 2008: Death Magnetic Dominates Charts and Marks End of Warner Bros. Deal
In November 2008, Metallica's album 'Death Magnetic' achieved major success, topping charts in the U.S. and 32 other countries. It became their fifth consecutive album to debut at number one on the Billboard 200, a historic feat. The album's success continued as it remained on top of several Billboard charts for multiple weeks. November 2008 also marked the end of Metallica's contract with Warner Bros., leading the band to explore online distribution for their next album.
2008: Return to Thrash Metal with Death Magnetic
In 2008, Metallica released their ninth album, Death Magnetic, returning to their thrash metal roots. The album received praise similar to their earlier works.
January 14, 2009: Metallica Announced for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
On January 14, 2009, Metallica received the news of their upcoming induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony was set for April 4, 2009.
April 4, 2009: Metallica Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Performances by Jason Newsted and Robert Trujillo
On April 4, 2009, Metallica was officially inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The event saw a special performance with both former bassist Jason Newsted and current bassist Robert Trujillo sharing the stage. Ray Burton, father of late bassist Cliff Burton, accepted the honor on his son's behalf.
June 2009: Ulrich Hints at Future Plans with Rick Rubin and Continued Touring
In a June 2009 interview, Lars Ulrich revealed that Metallica planned to continue touring until August 2010 and expressed their intention to work with producer Rick Rubin again in the future, though there were no immediate plans for a tenth album.
2009: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2009, Metallica was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential bands in heavy metal.
2009: Quebec Performances
Metallica played a series of shows in Quebec in 2009, footage of which was later released as the "Quebec Magnetic" DVD in 2012.
2009: Newsted Inducted into Hall of Fame
Despite his departure, Jason Newsted was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Metallica in 2009.
2009: Release of "Guitar Hero: Metallica"
Metallica collaborated with the creators of the Guitar Hero franchise to release "Guitar Hero: Metallica" in 2009, featuring numerous songs from their discography.
June 16, 2010: The "Big Four" of Thrash Metal Unite for the First Time
In a historic event on June 16, 2010, the "Big Four" of thrash metal - Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax - shared the stage for the first time at the Sonisphere Festival in Warsaw, Poland.
June 22, 2010: The "Big Four" Concert Broadcast Live from Sofia
On June 22, 2010, The "Big Four" concert in Sofia, Bulgaria, as part of the Sonisphere Festival, was broadcasted live via satellite to cinemas worldwide.
June 26, 2010: The "Big Four" Rocks Bucharest
The "Big Four" continued their Sonisphere Festival tour with a performance in Bucharest, Romania on June 26, 2010.
June 27, 2010: The "Big Four" Concludes Eastern European Leg of Sonisphere Festival in Istanbul
The "Big Four" wrapped up the Eastern European leg of their Sonisphere Festival tour with a performance in Istanbul, Turkey on June 27, 2010.
June 28, 2010: "Death Magnetic" Certified Double Platinum
Metallica's album "Death Magnetic" reached a new milestone on June 28, 2010, by achieving double platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
November 9, 2010: Metallica Announced as Headliner for Rock in Rio 2011
On November 9, 2010, Metallica was confirmed as a headlining act for the Rock in Rio festival in Rio de Janeiro, scheduled for September 25, 2011.
November 12, 2010: Metallica Releases "Six Feet Down Under (Part II)"
On November 12, 2010, Metallica released "Six Feet Down Under (Part II)", a live EP featuring eight songs recorded during the early Australian leg of their "World Magnetic" tour. This followed the release of "Six Feet Down Under", another live EP from the same tour.
November 2010: Metallica to Focus on Writing New Music in 2011
In November 2010, Lars Ulrich shared Metallica's plan to shift their focus towards writing new music in 2011, after wrapping up their extensive touring schedule.
November 21, 2010: Metallica's "World Magnetic" Tour Ends in Melbourne
Metallica concluded their extensive "World Magnetic" tour, which spanned over two years in support of their album "Death Magnetic", with a final show in Melbourne, Australia on November 21, 2010.
November 26, 2010: Metallica Releases "Live at Grimey's" EP
On November 26, 2010, Metallica released "Live at Grimey's", a special live EP recorded during an intimate performance at Grimey's Record Store in June 2008, prior to their appearance at the Bonnaroo Music Festival.
December 13, 2010: The "Big Four" Reunite for Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth House
On December 13, 2010, it was announced that the "Big Four" of thrash metal would reunite for a performance at the Sonisphere Festival, held at Knebworth House in Hertfordshire, England on July 8, 2011. This marked the first time all four bands - Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax - would share a stage in the UK.
December 17, 2010: The "Big Four" Adds French Date to Sonisphere Festival Tour
On December 17, 2010, a French date was added to the "Big Four" Sonisphere Festival tour, with a performance scheduled for July 9, 2011.
January 25, 2011: The "Big Four" Announces First-Ever U.S. Performance
January 25, 2011, marked a historic announcement as the "Big Four" of thrash metal confirmed their first-ever performance together in the United States. The concert was set for April 23, 2011, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California.
February 17, 2011: The "Big Four" Adds Gelsenkirchen, Germany to Tour Itinerary
On February 17, 2011, a show in Gelsenkirchen, Germany was added to the "Big Four" tour schedule, taking place on July 2, 2011.
April 2011: Metallica Confirms Rick Rubin for New Album and Expresses Enthusiasm for Upcoming Recording Sessions
In an interview during the Big Four concert in April 2011, Robert Trujillo confirmed that Metallica would collaborate with Rick Rubin again for their next album. He expressed the band's excitement for writing new music and their strong working relationship with Rubin and his team.
June 15, 2011: Metallica Completes Recording Sessions with Lou Reed for Collaborative Album "Lulu"
Metallica announced on June 15, 2011, that their recording sessions with singer-songwriter Lou Reed had been completed. The collaborative album, titled "Lulu", was recorded over a period of several months and featured ten songs inspired by Frank Wedekind's "Lulu" plays.
June 2011: Rick Rubin Reveals Metallica Has Begun Writing Their New Album
In June 2011, renowned producer Rick Rubin revealed that Metallica had commenced the writing process for their new album.
July 3, 2011: The "Big Four" Performs in Gothenburg
On July 3, 2011, The "Big Four" played a concert in Gothenburg, Sweden, as part of their European tour.
July 6, 2011: The "Big Four" Rocks Milan
On July 6, 2011, The "Big Four" performed together in Milan, Italy, as part of their European tour.
September 14, 2011: The "Big Four" Concludes Tour at Yankee Stadium
The "Big Four"'s tour concluded with a final performance at Yankee Stadium in New York City on September 14, 2011.
October 16, 2011: Robert Trujillo Confirms Metallica's Return to Studio for New Material
On October 16, 2011, Robert Trujillo, Metallica's bassist, confirmed that the band was back in the studio working on new material with Rick Rubin. He shared their plan to dedicate a significant portion of the following year to recording the new album.
October 30, 2011: Metallica's Indian Debut
On October 30, 2011, Metallica finally made their long-awaited debut in India with a performance in Bangalore. This came after a previously planned appearance at the "India Rocks" concert was canceled due to safety concerns.
October 31, 2011: Metallica and Lou Reed Release "Lulu"
Metallica and Lou Reed's collaborative album, "Lulu", was released on October 31, 2011. The album's creation process had its share of challenges, with reports of creative differences between the artists.
December 13, 2011: "Beyond Magnetic" EP Release
Metallica digitally released "Beyond Magnetic", an EP featuring songs originally written for "Death Magnetic", exclusively on iTunes on December 13, 2011. The EP saw a CD release in January 2012.
December 2011: Metallica's 30th Anniversary Shows
Metallica celebrated their 30th anniversary with four special shows at the Fillmore in San Francisco during December 2011. The shows featured guest appearances from various artists connected to Metallica's history, including Lloyd Grant, Dave Mustaine, Jason Newsted, and more.
2011: Metallica and Megadeth Perform Together
Metallica and Megadeth participated in the 'Big 4 Tour' alongside Slayer and Anthrax in 2011, marking a period of reconciliation. Mustaine also joined Metallica for their 30th anniversary show in San Francisco.
2011: Hetfield's Reaction to Fan's Comments
During a meet-and-greet in 2011, James Hetfield laughed off a fan's negative comments about Mötley Crüe.
2011: Newsted Performs at Metallica's 30th Anniversary Show
Jason Newsted joined Metallica on stage for their 30th anniversary show in San Francisco in 2011.
January 2012: "Beyond Magnetic" CD Release
After its initial digital release in December 2011, Metallica's "Beyond Magnetic" EP was released on CD in January 2012.
February 7, 2012: Orion Music + More Festival Announcement
On February 7, 2012, Metallica revealed their plans to launch a new music festival, "Orion Music + More", set to take place in Atlantic City on June 23 and 24, 2012. The band confirmed their headlining spot for both days and announced their intention to perform "The Black Album" and "Ride the Lightning" in their entirety.
June 9, 2012: Download Festival Performance
Metallica was announced as a headliner for the Download Festival at Donington Park on June 9, 2012. The band planned to play their entire "Black Album" for the occasion.
July 2012: New Album Release Timeline
In a July 2012 interview with Canadian radio station 99.3 The Fox, Lars Ulrich indicated that Metallica's new album wouldn't be released until at least early 2014.
September 20, 2012: "Quebec Magnetic" DVD Announcement
Metallica announced the release of a new DVD, "Quebec Magnetic", on September 20, 2012. The DVD would feature footage from the band's 2009 shows in Quebec, with fans voting on the setlists included.
November 2012: Launch of Blackened Recordings
Metallica parted ways with Warner Bros. Records in November 2012 to establish their own independent record label, Blackened Recordings. The label would handle future releases and reissues of their back catalog.
December 10, 2012: "Quebec Magnetic" Release
Metallica's concert film "Quebec Magnetic", featuring footage from their 2009 performances in Quebec, was released in the U.S. on December 10, 2012.
January 8, 2013: Update on Upcoming Album
In a Classic Rock interview on January 8, 2013, Lars Ulrich hinted at the sound of their upcoming album, suggesting it would be a continuation of "Death Magnetic". He also mentioned the possibility of working with Rick Rubin again.
July 22, 2013: Studio Confirmation and Album Timeline
Lars Ulrich, in a July 22, 2013 interview with Ultimate Guitar, shared that 2014 would be dedicated to making a new Metallica album, with a likely release in 2015. This was corroborated by Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo.
December 8, 2013: "Freeze 'Em All" Concert in Antarctica
Making history, Metallica became the first band to perform on all seven continents with their "Freeze 'Em All" concert in Antarctica on December 8, 2013. The show was recorded and released as a live album later that month.
2013: Release of Metallica: Through the Never
In 2013, Metallica co-wrote the screenplay and starred in the concert film Metallica: Through the Never, blending live performances with a fictional thriller storyline.
2013: Removal of Metallica Songs from "Rock Band"
Several Metallica songs, including "Ride the Lightning" and "...And Justice for All," were removed from the Rock Band video game in 2013 due to expiring content licenses.
January 2014: Grammy Awards Performance
Metallica, joined by Chinese pianist Lang Lang, delivered a performance of "One" at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards in January 2014.
March 2014: "Metallica By Request" Tour Begins
March 2014 marked the start of Metallica's "Metallica By Request" tour, a unique concept where fans dictated the setlist by requesting songs for the band to play.
June 2014: Glastonbury Festival Performance
In an effort to expand their fanbase, Metallica headlined the Glastonbury Festival in June 2014.
November 2014: BlizzCon 2014 Performance
Metallica took the stage at the closing ceremony of BlizzCon 2014 in November 2014.
2014: Expected Release Year
Metallica's new album was expected to be released sometime in 2014.
2014: Year Dedicated to Recording
Metallica planned to focus on recording their new album throughout 2014.
January 2015: "Metallica Night" with the San Jose Sharks
A "Metallica Night" was held with the San Jose Sharks in January 2015. The event featured a Q&A session with the band and a charity auction, though no live performance.
March 2015: Lollapalooza Announcement
Metallica was announced as a headliner for Lollapalooza in March 2015, marking their return to the festival after two decades.
May 2, 2015: Metallica Day at AT&T Park
Metallica hosted their third annual Metallica Day at AT&T Park on May 2, 2015.
June 14, 2015: National Anthem Performance
James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett performed a live rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" on their electric guitars before Game 5 of the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena in Oakland, California on June 14, 2015.
2015: Expected Release Year
Metallica's new album was projected to be released at some point during 2015.
2015: Tommy Lee Reignites Feud on Twitter
Tommy Lee reignited the feud with Metallica in 2015 by posting a picture of Lars Ulrich with the caption "Straight Outta Tempo" on Twitter.
April 2016: Album Progress Update
In an interview with Billboard during the lead-up to Record Store Day in April 2016, Lars Ulrich discussed the band's involvement in the music industry and how it influenced the album's creation timeline. He expressed optimism that the album was nearing completion and hinted at a 2016 release.
August 18, 2016: "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct" Announcement and "Hardwired" Release
August 18, 2016, saw Metallica announce their tenth studio album, "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct". The worldwide release date was set for November 18, 2016, via their Blackened Recordings label. The announcement included the tracklist, artwork, and the music video for the first single, "Hardwired".
August 20, 2016: U.S. Bank Stadium Opening
Metallica headlined the opening of U.S. Bank Stadium, with Avenged Sevenfold and Volbeat as supporting acts, on August 20, 2016.
November 18, 2016: "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct" Release
As scheduled, Metallica's album "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct" was released on November 18, 2016. It marked their tenth studio album and debuted at the top of the Billboard 200 chart.
2016: Release of Hardwired... to Self-Destruct
In 2016, Metallica released their tenth studio album, Hardwired... to Self-Destruct, which continued their trend of debuting at number one on the Billboard 200.
February 2017: Launch of All Within My Hands Foundation
Metallica launched their foundation, All Within My Hands, in February 2017 to support workforce education, fight hunger, and aid local communities through various initiatives and partnerships.
August 7, 2017: Metallica Night with the San Francisco Giants
On August 7, 2017, Metallica was invited by the San Francisco Giants for their fifth annual "Metallica Night". During the event, band members Hammett and Hetfield performed the national anthem.
2017: Third-Best-Selling Music Artist
By 2017, Metallica had become the third-best-selling music artist since Nielsen SoundScan began tracking sales in 1991, with 58 million albums sold in the United States.
2017: Hetfield Appears on 'Sixx Sense'
In a potential sign of reconciliation, James Hetfield appeared on Nikki Sixx's radio show 'Sixx Sense' in 2017.
January 2018: Announcement of The $5.98 E.P. - Garage Days Re-Revisited Reissuing and Metallica Night
In January 2018, Metallica announced they would be reissuing The $5.98 E.P. – Garage Days Re-Revisited on April 13 for Record Store Day. They also announced the sixth annual "Metallica Night" would be in April with proceeds going to the All Within My Hands Foundation.
February 2018: North American Tour Dates Announcement
In February 2018, Metallica announced a second set of North American tour dates, many of which were in cities they had not been to in nearly 30 years.
September 6, 2018: Concert in Lincoln, Nebraska
On September 6, 2018, Metallica performed in Lincoln, Nebraska. This concert was later streamed for #MetallicaMondays.
2018: 125 Million Albums Sold Worldwide
As of 2018, Metallica had sold more than 125 million albums worldwide, establishing themselves as one of the most commercially successful bands of all time.
March 2019: WorldWired Tour Continues and S&M2 Announcement
In March 2019, Metallica announced their WorldWired Tour would continue into Australia and New Zealand in October with Slipknot. They also shared they would perform at the opening of San Francisco's Chase Center with the San Francisco Symphony in September to celebrate the 20th anniversary of S&M.
March 2019: Trujillo Discusses Upcoming Album
In March 2019, bassist Robert Trujillo revealed in an interview with Australian magazine The Music's official podcast that Metallica had begun working on new material. He expressed his excitement for the album, anticipating it to be a culmination of their previous two records.
July 2019: South American Tour Dates Announced
In July 2019, Metallica announced tour dates for South America in April 2020 with Greta Van Fleet.
March 2020: Metallica's Benefit Concert
In March 2020, Metallica had a benefit concert planned.
March 2020: #MetallicaMondays Begins
In March 2020, Metallica started #MetallicaMondays, a series on YouTube and Facebook where they streamed full archived shows every Monday as a way to entertain fans during the COVID-19 pandemic.
April 2020: South American Tour with Greta Van Fleet
In April 2020, Metallica was scheduled to tour South America with Greta Van Fleet.
April 2020: Ulrich Hints at Album Recording During Quarantine
In April 2020, Lars Ulrich revealed in an interview with Marc Benioff that Metallica was considering using their time in quarantine to work on their next studio album.
May 2020: "Blackened 2020" Release
In May 2020, Metallica, while in quarantine, performed a virtual acoustic version of their song "Blackened", titled "Blackened 2020", which was later released for download.
June 2020: Lars Ulrich Revises Moscow Concert Attendance
In a June 2020 interview, Lars Ulrich provided a revised estimate of the attendance at Metallica's historic Moscow concert in 1991, suggesting it was closer to half a million attendees during their set.
August 10, 2020: Performance at Gundlach-Bundschu Winery
On August 10, 2020, Metallica held a concert at Gundlach-Bundschu Winery in Sonoma, California. The performance, attended by a small crew, was recorded and later screened at drive-in theaters across the U.S. and Canada on August 29.
August 2020: Release of S&M2 Performances
In August 2020, Metallica announced the release of the S&M2 performances as an album, DVD, and box set. The S&M2 shows, a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of their collaboration with the San Francisco Symphony, featured arrangements from the original S&M concerts, new arrangements for songs released since then, and a cover of Alexander Mosolov's "Iron Foundry".
September 2020: Hetfield Enters Rehabilitation and Postponement of Australia/New Zealand Tour
In September 2020, Metallica announced that James Hetfield had entered a rehabilitation program, leading to the postponement of their Australia/New Zealand tour. The band expressed support for Hetfield's recovery.
October 2020: Miley Cyrus Announces Metallica Covers Album
Miley Cyrus revealed her plans to record a Metallica covers album in October 2020.
January 7, 2021: Cyrus Releases "Nothing Else Matters" Cover
Miley Cyrus released her cover of "Nothing Else Matters" on January 7, 2021, featuring Elton John, Chad Smith, and Yo-Yo Ma, showcasing the enduring appeal of Metallica's music.
May 2021: Final #MetallicaMondays Announced
In May 2021, Metallica announced a final #MetallicaMondays event to benefit their All Within My Hands Foundation, taking place on May 24. The stream featured their September 6, 2018 concert in Lincoln, Nebraska.
August 2021: Newsted Contributes to 'Black Album' Reissue
Jason Newsted participated in the 30th-anniversary reissue of Metallica's self-titled album ('Black Album') in August 2021, recording his bass tracks for a special release.
September 6, 2021: All Within My Hands Foundation Fundraiser
On September 6, 2021, Metallica's All Within My Hands Foundation raised $377,450. The band collaborated with Carhartt on the initiative, with the clothing company donating all of their Labor Day sales proceeds to Metallica Scholars.
2021: Nikki Sixx Praises Metallica's Longevity
Nikki Sixx praised Metallica's long career and several of their albums during a 2021 interview.
November 28, 2022: "Lux Æterna" Release
On November 28, 2022, Metallica released "Lux Æterna", the first single from their upcoming album.
January 19, 2023: "Screaming Suicide" Release
On January 19, 2023, Metallica released "Screaming Suicide", the second single from their upcoming album.
March 1, 2023: "If Darkness Had a Son" Release
On March 1, 2023, Metallica released "If Darkness Had a Son", the third single from their upcoming album.
March 30, 2023: "72 Seasons" Music Video Release
On March 30, 2023, Metallica released a music video for the title track of their upcoming album, "72 Seasons".
April 14, 2023: 72 Seasons Release
On April 14, 2023, Metallica released their eleventh studio album, 72 Seasons.
April 2023: Ulrich Hints at New Metallica Album Ideas
In an interview in April 2023, Lars Ulrich hinted at potential ideas for a follow-up album to "72 Seasons," expressing enthusiasm for upcoming live performances and Metallica's continuous creative process.
April 27, 2023: M72 World Tour Begins
On April 27, 2023, Metallica kicked off their M72 World Tour in Amsterdam, promoting their latest album, 72 Seasons.
August 2023: Metallica Foundation Supports Maui Relief Efforts
In August 2023, Metallica's All Within My Hands Foundation provided financial aid for relief efforts following the devastating wildfire in Maui, Hawaii, demonstrating their commitment to disaster relief.
2023: Release of 72 Seasons
In 2023, Metallica released their eleventh studio album, 72 Seasons, continuing their legacy in the heavy metal genre.
May 2024: Hetfield Confirms New Music Writing
James Hetfield confirmed in May 2024 that he has been actively writing new music, indicating ongoing creative endeavors for Metallica.
September 29, 2024: M72 World Tour Concludes
On September 29, 2024, Metallica is scheduled to conclude their M72 World Tour in Mexico City.