History of Metallica in Timeline
Metallica, formed in 1981 by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich, is a seminal American heavy metal band and a key member of the "big four" of thrash metal. Known for their fast tempos and aggressive musicianship, the band has been based in San Francisco for most of their career. The current lineup consists of Hetfield, Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo. Former members include Dave Mustaine, who went on to form Megadeth, as well as Ron McGovney, Cliff Burton, and Jason Newsted. Metallica remains a significant force in heavy metal music.
October 28, 1981: Official Formation of Metallica
On October 28, 1981, Metallica was officially formed five months after Lars Ulrich and James Hetfield first met, solidifying the band's beginnings.
1981: Metallica Formation
In 1981, Metallica was formed in Los Angeles by vocalist and guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich. The band later relocated to San Francisco and became a major force in thrash metal.
March 14, 1982: Metallica's First Live Performance
On March 14, 1982, Metallica played its first live performance at Radio City in Anaheim, California, with Ron McGovney on bass.
June 14, 1982: Release of Metal Massacre I
On June 14, 1982, 'Metal Massacre I' compilation was released, featuring Metallica's first original song 'Hit the Lights', though early pressings misspelled the band's name as 'Mettallica'.
1982: Ulrich and Sixx spat at The Troubadour
In 1982, Lars Ulrich and Mötley Crüe's bassist Nikki Sixx were allegedly involved in a spat prior to a show at the Troubadour in Hollywood.
1982: Demo No Life 'til Leather
In 1982, Metallica created the demo No Life 'til Leather, which led to concert promoter Jonny Z offering to broker a record deal between Metallica and New York City based record labels, after which Zazula signed Metallica to Megaforce Records.
1982: Recruitment of Cliff Burton
In late 1982, Lars Ulrich and James Hetfield attended a Trauma show at Whisky a Go Go and were impressed by bassist Cliff Burton. Burton eventually joined Metallica by the end of the year on the condition that they move to El Cerrito.
March 1983: First performance with Cliff Burton
In March 1983, Metallica had its first live performance with Cliff Burton at The Stone nightclub.
April 11, 1983: Mustaine's Departure
On April 11, 1983, just before recording sessions for Metallica's debut album, the band decided to eject Dave Mustaine due to drug and alcohol abuse and violent behavior.
April 16, 1983: First Performance with Kirk Hammett
On April 16, 1983, Metallica's first live performance with Kirk Hammett was at The Showplace in Dover, New Jersey. The support act was Anthrax's original lineup, marking the first time the two bands performed live together.
May 1983: Recording of Debut Album
In May 1983, Metallica traveled to Rochester, New York, to record their debut album, initially titled Metal Up Your Ass, which was produced by Paul Curcio.
1983: Mustaine Fired from Metallica
Dave Mustaine's tenure with Metallica ended with his firing in 1983 due to alcoholism and conflicts within the band.
February 1984: Seven Dates of Hell tour
In February 1984, Metallica supported Venom on the Seven Dates of Hell tour, during which the bands performed in front of 7,000 people at the Aardschok Festival in Zwolle, Netherlands.
February 1984: Coining of "thrash metal"
In February 1984, the term "thrash metal" was coined by Kerrang! journalist Malcolm Dome in reference to Anthrax's song "Metal Thrashing Mad".
March 1984: Recording Ride the Lightning
From February to March 1984, Metallica recorded its second studio album, Ride the Lightning, at Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, Denmark.
August 1984: Release of Ride the Lightning
In August 1984, Metallica released 'Ride the Lightning'. The album reached number 100 on the Billboard 200. A French printing press mistakenly printed green covers for the album, which are now considered collectors' items.
September 1984: Signing with Elektra Records
In September 1984, Metallica signed with Elektra Records after Michael Alago and Cliff Burnstein were impressed with their concert performance. They also became a client of Q Prime management.
December 1985: Master of Puppets Recording
From September to December 1985, Metallica recorded its third studio album, 'Master of Puppets', at Sweet Silence Studios.
1985: Mustaine's Criticism of Hammett
In a 1985 interview with Metal Forces, Dave Mustaine expressed his dislike for Kirk Hammett, accusing him of "ripping off" his guitar leads from the No Life 'til Leather tape and being voted No. 1 guitarist in the magazine.
March 1986: Release of Master of Puppets
In March 1986, Metallica released their third studio album, 'Master of Puppets'.
September 27, 1986: Cliff Burton's Death
On September 27, 1986, during the Damage, Inc. Tour, Cliff Burton died in a bus accident near Dörarp, Sweden. The bus overturned after the driver lost control, pinning Burton underneath.
November 4, 1986: Master of Puppets Certified Gold
On November 4, 1986, Metallica's third studio album, Master of Puppets, was certified Gold, marking a significant milestone in the band's career.
1986: Newsted hired and hazed
Following his hiring in 1986, Jason Newsted regularly experienced incidents of hazing and a perceived lack of acceptance from his bandmates, despite his strong efforts in the band's live performances.
1986: Release of Master of Puppets
In 1986, Metallica achieved commercial success with the release of 'Master of Puppets'. This third album is often considered one of the band's best and a landmark in heavy metal.
1986: Kill 'Em All Billboard Peak
In 1986, Metallica's debut album, Kill 'Em All, peaked at number 155 on the Billboard 200. Although it was not initially a financial success, it helped Metallica earn a growing fan base in the underground metal scene.
February 1987: End of Damage, Inc. Tour
In February 1987, Metallica finished its tour after the tragic death of Cliff Burton and the subsequent search for a replacement.
March 1987: Hetfield Breaks Wrist, Appearance Cancelled
In March 1987, James Hetfield broke his wrist while skateboarding, leading to the cancellation of Metallica's scheduled appearance on Saturday Night Live.
August 1987: Release of 'The $5.98 E.P. - Garage Days Re-Revisited'
In August 1987, Metallica released 'The $5.98 E.P. - Garage Days Re-Revisited', an all-covers extended play (EP). The EP was recorded to utilize their new recording studio, assess Jason Newsted's abilities, and alleviate grief after Cliff Burton's death.
May 1988: Recording of '...And Justice for All' Concludes
In May 1988, Metallica concluded the recording of '...And Justice for All', their first studio album since Cliff Burton's death. The album would be released in September.
1988: ...And Justice for All Grammy Nomination
In 1988, Metallica's album '...And Justice for All' earned the band its first Grammy Award nomination, marking a significant recognition of their work.
1988: Kill 'Em All Reissue
In 1988, Music for Nations released a limited-edition single of "Creeping Death". Two of the three songs on the record – cover versions of Diamond Head's "Am I Evil?" and Blitzkrieg's "Blitzkrieg" – appeared on the 1988 Elektra reissue of Kill 'Em All.
1989: Grammy Nomination and Loss
In 1989, Metallica received its first Grammy Award nomination for '...And Justice for All' in the Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance Vocal or Instrument category, but lost to Jethro Tull's album 'Crest of a Knave', sparking controversy.
1989: Metallica impressed by Dr. Feelgood
In 1989, Metallica were impressed by the production and commercial success of Mötley Crüe's "Dr. Feelgood".
1989: Performance Introduction
Since the 1980s, including 1989, a recording of "The Ecstasy of Gold" has been played to introduce Metallica's performances.
October 1990: Recording of 'Metallica' Begins
In October 1990, Metallica began recording its next album, 'Metallica' (also known as The Black Album), at One on One Recording's studio in North Hollywood, with Bob Rock as the producer.
September 1991: Monsters of Rock Concert in Moscow
In September 1991, 1.6 million rock music fans gathered in Moscow for the first open-air rock concert in the Soviet Union as part of the Monsters of Rock series, featuring Metallica.
1991: Sound Change on Black Album
In 1991, Metallica changed their sound to a more traditional heavy metal style on their album often referred to as The Black Album.
1991: Hiring Bob Rock
In 1991, Metallica hired Bob Rock, the producer of Mötley Crüe's album "Dr. Feelgood", to produce their self-titled fifth album.
1991: Release of Metallica
In 1991, Metallica released their self-titled fifth album, 'Metallica', often referred to as 'The Black Album'. It marked a turning point, transitioning from thrash metal to a more mainstream sound, achieving massive commercial success and becoming the best-selling album of the SoundScan era.
1991: Shift to Mainstream Appeal with "Metallica"
In 1991, Metallica simplified and streamlined its music with new producer Bob Rock for a more commercial approach on their self-titled album, often referred to as the "Black Album", which became their first album to peak at number one on the Billboard 200.
1991: Kamen Approaches Metallica
In 1991, Michael Kamen approached Metallica with the idea of pairing the band's music with a symphony orchestra.
1991: Nielsen SoundScan sales
Since Nielsen SoundScan began tracking sales in 1991, Metallica is the third-best-selling artist with 58 million albums sold in the United States as of 2017.
April 1992: Appearance at The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert
In April 1992, Metallica performed a three-song set at The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert. James Hetfield later performed "Stone Cold Crazy" with the remaining members of Queen and Tony Iommi.
August 8, 1992: Hetfield Injured in Pyrotechnics Accident
On August 8, 1992, during a concert in Montreal as part of the Guns N' Roses/Metallica Stadium Tour, James Hetfield suffered second- and third-degree burns due to a pyrotechnics malfunction during "Fade to Black".
November 1993: Release of 'Live Shit: Binge & Purge'
In November 1993, Metallica released 'Live Shit: Binge & Purge', their first box set, containing live CDs, home videos, and a book.
1993: Megadeth Opens for Metallica on European Dates
In 1993, Megadeth opened for Metallica on numerous European dates, indicating a subsiding of the historical feud between Dave Mustaine and Metallica.
1995: Escape from the Studio '95 Tour
In the summer of 1995, after almost three years of touring Metallica went on a brief hiatus and embarked on a short tour called Escape from the Studio '95.
1996: Release of Load and Lollapalooza Headline
In 1996, Metallica released Load, an album described as having an almost alternative rock approach, marking another change in musical direction. Metallica also headlined the Lollapalooza festival of 1996, which was met with mixed reactions from fans and critics.
1996: Release of Load
In 1996, Metallica released the album Load, which saw the band move towards hard rock.
December 1997: SNL Performance to promote Reload
In December 1997, Metallica performed "Fuel" and "The Memory Remains" with Marianne Faithfull on NBC's Saturday Night Live to promote their upcoming album, Reload.
1997: Ulrich accuses Mötley Crüe
In 1997, Lars Ulrich accused Mötley Crüe of performing to a backing track at the American Music Awards, which reignited the feud between the bands.
1997: Release of Reload
In 1997, Metallica released the album Reload, continuing their move towards hard rock.
1997: Release of Reload and Blues Influences
With the release of ReLoad in 1997, Metallica displayed blues and early hard rock influences, incorporating more rhythm and harmony in song structures.
1998: Release of 'Garage Inc.'
In 1998, Metallica released 'Garage Inc.', a double album of cover songs. The first disc contained newly recorded covers, while the second disc featured the original version of 'The $5.98 E.P. – Garage Days Re-Revisited'.
March 7, 1999: Induction into San Francisco Walk of Fame
On March 7, 1999, Metallica was inducted into the San Francisco Walk of Fame, and the mayor of San Francisco, Willie Brown, proclaimed the day "Official Metallica Day".
1999: Release of S&M album and concert film
In 1999, Metallica released the album and concert film S&M, featuring performances recorded with the San Francisco Symphony in April 1999. The album entered the Billboard 200 at number two and the Australian ARIA charts and Top Internet Albums chart at number one.
1999: 'One' music video voted in MTV's Top 100
In 1999, Metallica's music video for the song "One" was voted number 38 in MTV's "Top 100 Videos of All Time" countdown and was featured on the network's 25th-anniversary edition of ADD Video.
July 11, 2000: Ulrich Testifies on Copyright Infringement
On July 11, 2000, Lars Ulrich provided a statement to the Senate Judiciary Committee regarding copyright infringement.
2000: Ulrich Skit at MTV Video Music Awards
In 2000, Lars Ulrich appeared in a skit at the MTV Video Music Awards criticizing Napster, leading to a confrontation and confiscation of a student's belongings. Later, Shawn Fanning responded by wearing a Metallica shirt with a message about borrowing.
2000: Metallica Discovers Napster Leak and Files Lawsuit
In 2000, Metallica discovered that a demo of their song "I Disappear" was leaked on Napster, leading them to file a lawsuit against the peer-to-peer file-sharing network for copyright infringement and other violations.
2000: Metallica vs. Napster Lawsuit
In 2000, Metallica initiated a legal case against Napster, a peer-to-peer file sharing service, for copyright infringement. The band and other artists sued Napster for sharing their copyrighted material without consent, eventually reaching a settlement.
2000: Hetfield blocks Echobrain
In 2000, tensions between James Hetfield and Jason Newsted reached a breaking point after Hetfield repeatedly blocked Newsted's request to venture into his side project Echobrain.
January 2001: Newsted leaves Metallica
In January 2001, Jason Newsted abruptly left Metallica prior to the recording of St. Anger after discussions about his side project Echobrain broke down.
January 17, 2001: Newsted Leaves Metallica
On January 17, 2001, Jason Newsted left Metallica, citing "private and personal reasons" and physical strain. Disputes over his side project, Echobrain, also contributed to his departure.
April 2001: Filmmakers Document Metallica's Recording Process
In April 2001, filmmakers Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky started documenting Metallica's recording process for their next album, ultimately compiling over 1,000 hours of footage.
July 19, 2001: Hetfield Enters Rehab
On July 19, 2001, James Hetfield entered rehab for alcoholism and other addictions, putting all recording plans on hold and casting doubt on the band's future.
December 4, 2001: Hetfield Leaves Rehab
On December 4, 2001, James Hetfield left rehab.
2001: Jason Newsted Leaves Metallica
In 2001, Jason Newsted left Metallica.
April 12, 2002: Metallica Returns to Recording Studio
On April 12, 2002, Metallica returned to the recording studio after James Hetfield completed rehab.
June 3, 2002: Napster Files for Bankruptcy Protection
On June 3, 2002, Napster filed for Chapter 11 protection under U.S. bankruptcy laws.
September 3, 2002: Napster Forced to Liquidate Assets
On September 3, 2002, an American bankruptcy judge blocked the sale of Napster to Bertelsmann and forced Napster to liquidate its assets, according to Chapter 7 of the U.S. bankruptcy laws.
June 2003: St. Anger Album Release
In June 2003, Metallica's eighth studio album, St. Anger, was released and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The album received mixed reactions from critics, with some criticizing Ulrich's snare drum sound and the absence of guitar solos.
2003: Master of Puppets Certified Platinum
In 2003, 'Master of Puppets' was certified six times Platinum.
2003: Release of St. Anger
In 2003, Metallica released their eighth studio album 'St. Anger', which faced troubled production, later documented in 'Metallica: Some Kind of Monster'.
2003: Summer Sanitarium Tour
In 2003, Metallica supported St. Anger by going on the Summer Sanitarium Tour.
2003: Robert Trujillo Joins Metallica
In 2003, during the recording of St. Anger, Bob Rock played bass. After the album was completed, Metallica held auditions for a new bassist to replace Newsted. Robert Trujillo was chosen as the new bassist after three months of auditions.
2003: MTV Icon Award
Metallica was awarded the MTV Icon award in 2003, and a concert paying tribute to the band with artists performing its songs was held.
January 2004: 'Metallica: Some Kind of Monster' Premieres
In January 2004, the documentary 'Metallica: Some Kind of Monster', which chronicled the band's struggles during the recording of their next album, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.
2004: Ulrich's Hospitalization at Download Festival
During the 2004 Download Festival, Ulrich was rushed to the hospital due to an anxiety seizure and was unable to perform. Dave Lombardo and Joey Jordison volunteered to fill in on drums.
2004: Release of Metallica: Some Kind of Monster
In 2004, the documentary film 'Metallica: Some Kind of Monster' was released. It chronicled the troubled production of Metallica's eighth album, 'St. Anger' (2003), and the internal struggles within the band at the time.
2004: Grammy Award for "St. Anger"
In 2004, the title track from the album "St. Anger" won the Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance. It also served as the official theme song for WWE's SummerSlam 2003.
2004: Release of The Videos 1989–2004 DVD
In December 2006, Metallica released a DVD titled The Videos 1989–2004, covering videos from 1989 to 2004.
2004: Hetfield Reflects on Album Quality in 'Some Kind of Monster'
In the 2004 documentary film Metallica: Some Kind of Monster, James Hetfield mentioned that the band initially thought some of the songs on the albums Load and Reload were of average quality.
2005: Opening for the Rolling Stones
In 2005, Metallica opened for the Rolling Stones at SBC Park in San Francisco on November 13 and 15.
February 2006: Metallica Changes Producer
In February 2006, Metallica announced that they would be working with Rick Rubin instead of Bob Rock for their next album after 15 years. This decision was influenced by fan petitions criticizing Rock's influence on the band's sound.
April 8, 2006: Release of Master of Puppets: Remastered
On April 8, 2006, Kerrang! magazine released a tribute album titled Master of Puppets: Remastered to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Master of Puppets. It featured cover versions of Metallica songs by various artists.
September 10, 2006: Metallica Guest Stars on The Simpsons
On September 10, 2006, Metallica guest-starred on The Simpsons' eighteenth-season premiere, "The Mook, the Chef, the Wife and Her Homer".
December 2006: Release of The Videos 1989–2004 DVD
In December 2006, Metallica released a DVD titled The Videos 1989–2004, which sold 28,000 copies in its first week.
February 2007: We All Love Ennio Morricone Tribute Album
In February 2007, Metallica's guitar-based interpretation of Ennio Morricone's "The Ecstasy of Gold" was released on the tribute album We All Love Ennio Morricone. The track received a Grammy nomination.
2007: Machine Head Draws Inspiration from Master of Puppets
In 2007, Robb Flynn of Machine Head said that when creating the band's album, The Blackening, they aimed for "an album that has the power, influence and epic grandeur of that album Master of Puppets—and the staying power—a timeless record like that".
June 2008: Recording at Grimey's Record Store
In June 2008, Metallica recorded a live EP at Grimey's Record Store, which was later released on November 26, 2010, as "Live at Grimey's".
September 2, 2008: Death Magnetic Leaks Online
On September 2, 2008, a record store in France began selling copies of Death Magnetic before its official release date, leading to the album being available on peer-to-peer clients.
September 10, 2008: Early Release of Death Magnetic in the UK
Due to leaks, Death Magnetic was officially released in the UK on September 10, 2008, by Vertigo Records.
September 12, 2008: Scheduled Release of Death Magnetic
Metallica scheduled the release of their album Death Magnetic for September 12, 2008, and filmed a music video for the album's first single, "The Day That Never Comes".
November 2008: End of Warner Bros. Record Deal
In November 2008, Metallica's record deal with Warner Bros. ended, and the band considered releasing its next album through the internet.
2008: Release of Death Magnetic
In 2008, Metallica released Death Magnetic, which marked a return to a more thrash-influenced sound.
January 14, 2009: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
On January 14, 2009, it was announced that Metallica would be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on April 4, 2009. Former bassist Jason Newsted was also set to perform with the band at the ceremony.
April 4, 2009: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
On April 4, 2009, Metallica was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Jason Newsted and Robert Trujillo performed with the band. Ray Burton accepted the honor on behalf of Cliff Burton.
June 2009: Plans to Continue Touring
In a June 2009 interview, Ulrich mentioned that Metallica planned to continue touring until August 2010 and had no immediate plans for a tenth album, but expressed interest in collaborating with Rick Rubin again.
2009: Newsted inducted into Hall of Fame
In 2009, Jason Newsted was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a member of Metallica, despite his animosity surrounding his decision to leave the band.
2009: Release of Guitar Hero: Metallica
In 2009, Metallica collaborated with the game's developers to make Guitar Hero: Metallica, which included a number of Metallica's songs.
2009: Quebec Magnetic filming
In 2009, Metallica filmed the footage that would later be used in the "Quebec Magnetic" DVD, released in December 2012.
2009: Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2009, Metallica was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing their significant contribution to music.
June 16, 2010: Sonisphere Festival in Warsaw
On June 16, 2010, Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax performed on the same bill for the first time at Warsaw Babice Airport, Poland, as part of the Sonisphere Festival series.
June 22, 2010: Sonisphere Festival in Sofia Broadcast to Cinemas
On June 22, 2010, the Sonisphere Festival show in Sofia, Bulgaria, featuring Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax, was broadcast via satellite to cinemas.
June 26, 2010: Concert in Bucharest
On June 26, 2010, Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax played a concert in Bucharest as part of the Sonisphere Festival.
June 27, 2010: Concert in Istanbul
On June 27, 2010, Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax played a concert in Istanbul as part of the Sonisphere Festival.
June 28, 2010: Death Magnetic Certified Double Platinum
On June 28, 2010, Death Magnetic was certified double platinum by the RIAA.
August 2010: End of Touring Plans
In a June 2009 interview, Ulrich mentioned that Metallica planned to continue touring until August 2010 and had no immediate plans for a tenth album
November 9, 2010: Headlining Rock in Rio 2011
On November 9, 2010, Metallica announced that they would be headlining the Rock in Rio festival in Rio de Janeiro on September 25, 2011.
November 12, 2010: Release of 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 first two Oceanic Legs of the World Magnetic Tour.
November 2010: Plans to Start Writing in 2011
In November 2010, Ulrich stated that Metallica would return to writing new material in 2011, aiming to start the creative process around March or April.
November 21, 2010: End of World Magnetic Tour
On November 21, 2010, Metallica's World Magnetic Tour concluded in Melbourne. The band had been touring for over two years in support of Death Magnetic.
November 26, 2010: Release of Live at Grimey's EP
On November 26, 2010, Metallica released a live EP titled Live at Grimey's, which was recorded in June 2008 at Grimey's Record Store.
December 13, 2010: Sonisphere Festival in Knebworth
On December 13, 2010, the band announced it would again play as part of the "big four" during the Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth House, Hertfordshire, on July 8, 2011.
December 17, 2010: Sonisphere Performance in France
On December 17, 2010, Another "big four" Sonisphere performance that would take place in France on July 9 was announced.
January 25, 2011: Big Four Performance at Empire Polo Club
On January 25, 2011, another "big four" performance on April 23, 2011, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, was announced.
February 17, 2011: Show in Gelsenkirchen, Germany
On February 17, 2011, a show in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, on July 2, 2011, was announced.
March 2, 2011: Big Four Concert in Gothenburg
On March 2, 2011, another "big four" concert, which took place in Gothenburg on July 3, 2011, was announced.
April 2011: Robert Trujillo Discusses New Album
In April 2011, Robert Trujillo said Metallica would work with Rick Rubin again as producer for the new album and were "really excited to write some new music".
April 23, 2011: Big Four Performance at Empire Polo Club
On January 25, 2011, another "big four" performance on April 23, 2011, at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, was announced.
June 15, 2011: Recording Sessions with Lou Reed Conclude
On June 15, 2011, Metallica announced that recording sessions with Lou Reed had concluded for the album Lulu, which comprised ten songs based on Frank Wedekind's plays.
June 2011: Metallica Begins Writing New Album
In June 2011, Rick Rubin said Metallica had begun writing its new album.
July 2, 2011: Show in Gelsenkirchen, Germany
On February 17, 2011, a show in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, on July 2, 2011, was announced.
July 3, 2011: Big Four Concert in Gothenburg
On March 2, 2011, another "big four" concert, which took place in Gothenburg on July 3, 2011, was announced.
July 6, 2011: Big Four Show in Milan
On February 22, a "big four" show in Milan on July 6, 2011, was announced.
July 8, 2011: Sonisphere Festival in Knebworth
On December 13, 2010, the band announced it would again play as part of the "big four" during the Sonisphere Festival at Knebworth House, Hertfordshire, on July 8, 2011.
September 14, 2011: Big Four Concert at Yankee Stadium
On September 14, 2011, the final "big four" concert was in New York City, at Yankee Stadium.
September 25, 2011: Rock in Rio Performance
On November 9, 2010, Metallica announced that they would be headlining the Rock in Rio festival in Rio de Janeiro on September 25, 2011.
October 16, 2011: Back in the Studio Writing
On October 16, 2011, Robert Trujillo confirmed that the band was back in the studio and writing new material with Rick Rubin.
October 30, 2011: Metallca's Indian Debut in Bangalore
On October 30, 2011, Metallica made its Indian debut in Bangalore after the "India Rocks" concert was canceled due to safety concerns.
October 31, 2011: Release of Lulu Album
On October 31, 2011, the album Lulu, a collaboration between Metallica and Lou Reed, was released.
December 13, 2011: Release of Beyond Magnetic
On December 13, 2011, Metallica released "Beyond Magnetic", a digital EP available exclusively on iTunes. A CD release followed in January 2012.
December 2011: 30th Anniversary Shows at the Fillmore
In December 2011, Metallica celebrated its 30th anniversary by playing four exclusive shows for Met Club members at the Fillmore in San Francisco, featuring guest appearances by various artists and songs from throughout the band's career. They also began releasing songs written for Death Magnetic online in December 2011.
2011: Hetfield laughs at Mötley Crüe insults
During a 2011 meet-and-greet in Mexico City, James Hetfield laughed in his insults toward Mötley Crüe from a fan attacking Mötley Crüe due to their public image and frequent appearances in tabloids, while refusing to directly respond to the fan's comments.
2011: Newsted appears at anniversary show
In 2011, Jason Newsted appeared at Metallica's 30th anniversary show in San Francisco.
2011: Big 4 Tour and 30th Anniversary Show
In 2011, Metallica and Megadeth participated in the 'Big 4 Tour' alongside Slayer and Anthrax. Dave Mustaine also took part in Metallica's exclusive 30th-anniversary show in San Francisco, which invited other former members.
2011: Plans to Start Writing
In November 2010, Ulrich stated that Metallica would return to writing new material in 2011, aiming to start the creative process around March or April.
January 2012: CD Release of Beyond Magnetic
In January 2012, Metallica's digital EP "Beyond Magnetic", which was initially released on iTunes in December 2011, was released on CD.
February 7, 2012: Announcement of Orion Music + More Festival
On February 7, 2012, Metallica announced the creation of a new music festival called Orion Music + More, scheduled for June 23 and 24, 2012, in Atlantic City, where Metallica would perform "The Black Album" and "Ride the Lightning" in their entirety.
June 9, 2012: Metallica to Headline Download Festival
On June 9, 2012, Metallica was slated to headline the Download Festival at Donington Park, where they would perform "The Black Album" in its entirety.
July 2012: Ulrich Discusses the next album release date
In July 2012, Ulrich mentioned in an interview that Metallica would not release its new album until at least early 2014.
September 20, 2012: Announcement of Quebec Magnetic DVD
On September 20, 2012, Metallica announced a new DVD containing footage of shows performed in Quebec in 2009, with fans voting on the setlists.
November 2012: Launch of Blackened Recordings
In November 2012, Metallica left Warner Bros. Records and launched its own independent record label, Blackened Recordings, acquiring the rights to all of its studio albums and reissuing them through the new label.
December 10, 2012: Release of Quebec Magnetic
On December 10, 2012, Metallica released the concert film "Quebec Magnetic" in the U.S., featuring footage from their 2009 shows in Quebec.
January 8, 2013: Ulrich comments on the band's upcoming album
On January 8, 2013, Ulrich said that the band's upcoming album would be a continuation of Death Magnetic and that it would be unlikely to be released in 2013.
July 22, 2013: Ulrich talks about the new Metallica record
On July 22, 2013, Ulrich said in an interview that 2014 would be all about making a new Metallica record, with a likely release in 2015.
December 8, 2013: Freeze 'Em All Show in Antarctica
On December 8, 2013, Metallica played a show called "Freeze 'Em All" in Antarctica, becoming the first band to perform on all seven continents.
2013: Release of Metallica: Through the Never
In 2013, Metallica co-wrote and starred in the concert film 'Metallica: Through the Never' alongside Dane DeHaan. The film featured a live performance intertwined with a fictional thriller storyline.
2013: Removal of Metallica Tracks from Rock Band
In 2013, due to expiring content licenses, "Ride the Lightning", "Blackened", and "...And Justice for All" were no longer available for download in the Rock Band video game series.
January 2014: Grammy Performance with Lang Lang
In January 2014, Metallica performed "One" with Chinese pianist Lang Lang at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards.
March 2014: Metallica By Request Tour
In March 2014, Metallica began the "Metallica By Request" tour, where fans could request songs for the band to perform.
June 2014: Release of "Lords of Summer" Demo
In June 2014, Metallica released a "first take" demo of a new song titled "Lords of Summer", which was written for the "Metallica By Request" concerts. Metallica also headlined the Glastonbury Festival.
November 2014: BlizzCon Closing Ceremony Performance
In November 2014, Metallica performed at the closing ceremony of BlizzCon 2014.
2014: New Metallica Record Production
According to Ulrich on July 22, 2013, 2014 would be dedicated to the production of a new Metallica record.
2014: Delay in the new album release
In July 2012, Ulrich mentioned that Metallica would not release its new album until at least early 2014.
January 2015: Metallica Night with San Jose Sharks
In January 2015, Metallica announced a "Metallica Night" with the San Jose Sharks, featuring a Q&A and a charity auction, but no performances.
March 2015: Lollapalooza Headlining Announcement
In March 2015, Metallica was announced as a headliner for Lollapalooza, returning to the festival for the first time in 20 years.
May 2, 2015: Third Annual Metallica Day at AT&T Park
On May 2, 2015, Metallica held their third annual Metallica Day at AT&T Park.
June 14, 2015: NBA Finals Performance
On June 14, 2015, James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett of Metallica performed The Star-Spangled Banner live via electric guitars prior to game 5 of the NBA Finals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena in Oakland, California.
2015: Lee tweets "Straight Outta Tempo"
In 2015, Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee reignited the feud when he tweeted a picture of Lars Ulrich with the words "Straight Outta Tempo" superimposed over his face.
2015: Potential Release Year for the New Album
On July 22, 2013, Ulrich suggested that the new Metallica record would be most likely released during 2015.
April 2016: Ulrich Discusses the New Album
In April 2016, during the week leading up to Record Store Day, Ulrich said that the band's expanded role within the music industry had contributed to the time it had taken to write and record the new album, but he was optimistic about a 2016 release.
August 18, 2016: Announcement of Hardwired... to Self-Destruct
On August 18, 2016, Metallica announced that their tenth studio album, "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct", would be released on November 18, 2016, and unveiled the track listing, album artwork, and a music video for the first single, "Hardwired".
August 20, 2016: Opening of U.S. Bank Stadium
On August 20, 2016, Metallica opened the U.S. Bank Stadium with support from Avenged Sevenfold and Volbeat.
November 18, 2016: Release of Hardwired...to Self-Destruct
On November 18, 2016, Metallica released their tenth studio album, "Hardwired... to Self-Destruct", which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.
2016: Success of Hardwired... to Self-Destruct
In 2016, Metallica continued its streak with 'Hardwired... to Self-Destruct', which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, marking their sixth consecutive studio album to achieve this.
February 2017: Launch of All Within My Hands Foundation
In February 2017, Metallica launched All Within My Hands Foundation, dedicated to creating sustainable communities by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services.
August 7, 2017: Fifth Annual Metallica Night with San Francisco Giants
On August 7, 2017, Metallica was invited by the San Francisco Giants for the fifth annual "Metallica Night," with Kirk Hammett and James Hetfield performing the national anthem.
2017: Best-selling music artist
As of 2017, Metallica was 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 2017, things were alleged to have calmed down when James Hetfield appeared on Nikki Sixx's radio show "Sixx Sense".
January 2018: Reissue of The $5.98 E.P. and Sixth Metallica Night Announcement
In January 2018, Metallica announced the reissue of "The $5.98 E.P. – Garage Days Re-Revisited" for Record Store Day on April 13, and the sixth annual "Metallica Night" was announced a few weeks later, with proceeds benefiting the All Within My Hands Foundation.
February 2018: Announcement of Second Set of North American Tour Dates
In February 2018, Metallica announced a second set of North American tour dates, primarily for cities they had not visited in up to thirty years.
September 6, 2018: #MetallicaMondays concert
On September 6, 2018, Metallica held a concert in Lincoln, Nebraska, which was later streamed as part of the #MetallicaMondays series to benefit their All Within My Hands Foundation.
March 2019: Announcement of WorldWired Tour Dates and S&M2 Concert
In March 2019, Metallica announced that its WorldWired Tour would continue into Australia and New Zealand in October with Slipknot and also announced the S&M2 concert with the San Francisco Symphony in September to celebrate the twenty-year anniversary of S&M.
March 2019: Trujillo comments on new material for the next studio album
In March 2019, Trujillo said Metallica had begun jamming on new material for its next studio album, anticipating a quicker release compared to the previous two.
July 2019: South American Tour Dates Announced
In July 2019, Metallica announced a set of South American tour dates for April 2020 with Greta Van Fleet in support.
March 2020: #MetallicaMondays Streaming Series
In March 2020, Metallica began a series on YouTube and Facebook called #MetallicaMondays, where they streamed full archived shows every Monday during the pandemic.
March 2020: Benefit concert planned to continue as expected.
In September 2019, it was announced that Metallica's other commitments, including a benefit concert in March 2020, were still expected to continue as planned.
April 2020: Ulrich Discusses New Album
In April 2020, Ulrich stated that Metallica could work on its next studio album while in quarantine.
April 2020: South American tour postponed.
In July 2019, Metallica announced a set of South American tour dates for April 2020, but were later postponed.
May 2020: Virtual Acoustic Version of Blackened
In May 2020, Metallica performed a virtual acoustic version of "Blackened" called "Blackened 2020" while in quarantine, later making it available for download.
August 10, 2020: Show at Gundlach-Bundschu Winery
On August 10, 2020, Metallica played a show at Gundlach-Bundschu Winery in Sonoma, California, attended by a few crew members and recorded for drive-in movies across the U.S. and Canada on August 29.
August 2020: S&M2 Album, DVD and Box Set Announcement
In August 2020, Metallica announced that they would release the S&M2 performances as an album, DVD and box set.
September 2020: Metallica to perform at Global Citizen Festival.
In September 2019, it was announced that Metallica would perform at the Global Citizen Festival in September 2020.
October 2020: Miley Cyrus Announces Metallica Covers Album
In October 2020, Miley Cyrus announced that she was planning on recording a Metallica covers album.
January 7, 2021: Miley Cyrus Announces "Nothing Else Matters" Cover
On January 7, 2021, Miley Cyrus announced that she has recorded a cover version of "Nothing Else Matters" that would feature Elton John on piano, drummer Chad Smith from Red Hot Chili Peppers and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. This version was produced by Andrew Watt, and was released as a promotional single for the tribute album The Metallica Blacklist.
May 2021: Announcement of #MetallicaMondays Benefit
In May 2021, Metallica announced that they would do one more #MetallicaMondays on May 24 to benefit their All Within My Hands Foundation.
August 2021: Newsted unboxing video
In August 2021, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the release of Metallica's self-titled album, Jason Newsted was given a box set of the reissue to open for an unboxing video, which was uploaded to the band's YouTube channel.
September 6, 2021: All Within My Hands Foundation Raised Funds
On September 6, 2021, Metallica's All Within My Hands Foundation raised $377,450. As part of the initiative, Metallica teamed up with workwear brand Carhartt, with Carhartt donating all of their sales proceeds on the holiday to the band's Metallica Scholars initiative.
2021: Sixx praises Metallica's longevity
During an interview in 2021, Nikki Sixx applauded Metallica's longevity and praised several of their releases.
November 28, 2022: Release of "Lux Æterna"
On November 28, 2022, Metallica released the single "Lux Æterna".
January 19, 2023: Release of "Screaming Suicide"
On January 19, 2023, Metallica released their second single titled "Screaming Suicide".
March 1, 2023: Release of "If Darkness Had a Son"
On March 1, 2023, Metallica released the third single titled "If Darkness Had a Son".
March 30, 2023: Release of "72 Seasons" Music Video
On March 30, 2023, Metallica released a music video for the album's title track, "72 Seasons".
April 14, 2023: Release of "72 Seasons" album
On April 14, 2023, Metallica released their eleventh studio album 72 Seasons.
April 2023: Ulrich Interview on Loudwire Nights
In an April 2023 interview on Loudwire Nights, Ulrich mentioned that Metallica had some initial ideas for the follow-up to 72 Seasons and praised James Hetfield's riff-writing ability.
April 27, 2023: M72 World Tour began
On April 27, 2023, Metallica began their three-and-a-half-year-long tour, titled the M72 World Tour, in Amsterdam.
2023: Albums sold worldwide
As of 2023, Metallica had sold more than 163 million albums worldwide, establishing them as one of the most commercially successful bands of all time.
2023: Metallica Season in Fortnite Festival
In 2023, Fortnite Festival, a rhythm game within Fortnite, held a Metallica-centric season.
2023: Release of 72 Seasons
In 2023, Metallica released their eleventh and most recent album titled '72 Seasons'.
2023: Foundation Donates to Hawaii Wildfire Relief
In 2023, Metallica's All Within My Hands Foundation granted $200,000 for relief efforts after the destructive 2023 Hawaii wildfires.
May 2024: Hetfield Confirms Writing New Music
In May 2024, James Hetfield confirmed that he has been "writing lots of music, playing guitar pretty much every day."
August 2024: Metallica-centric season concluded in Fortnite
The Metallica-centric season in Fortnite Festival ran from June to August 2024 and included "One", "Lux Æterna", and "Master of Puppets". In addition, Metallica performed virtually in Fortnite in "Metallica: Fuel. Fire. Fury.", with cosmetics based on Hetfield, Ulrich, Hammett and Trujillo being added to the game.
March 2025: Hammett Discusses New Album Ideas
In a March 2025 interview with Rolling Stone, Kirk Hammett stated that he has been working on ideas for the next Metallica album but does not expect the band to start working on the album until at least another year because they are still finishing the tour.
July 5, 2026: M72 World Tour Concludes
Metallica's M72 World Tour is set to conclude in London on July 5, 2026.
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