(Artist Report)

Written by:  Ginny Gaines  

On July 5, 2025, Metallica played at Black Sabbath’s final concert in their hometown of Birmingham, UK. They honored Sabbath by performing two of their songs and playing a killer set of their own hits. James Hetfield said thanks in a heartfelt speech: “Without Sabbath, there would be no Metallica.” Even actor Jason Momoa was seen losing it in the crowd.

Their M72 World Tour hit Denver in late June and drew over 152,000 fans in two nights. They beat past records set by Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran. Fans also gave back—240 units of blood were donated during the concerts! Metallica played two concerts in Tampa, Florida at Raymond James Stadium on June 6 and June 8, 2025, as part of their M72 World Tour. They played a completely different set of songs each night. On the first night, they rocked out with hits like "Creeping Death," "Harvester of Sorrow," and "Master of Puppets." On the second night, they switched it up and played songs like "Welcome Home (Sanitarium)" and "Whiskey in the Jar."

Metallica’s tour rolls on with stops in: Australia and New Zealand in November. Bahrain on December 3 and Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix on December 6. A new Apple Vision Pro concert film lets fans experience Metallica like never before—with immersive tech. Their documentary Metallica Saved My Life featured at the Tribeca Festival, showcasing emotional fan stories. Through their Metallica Scholars Initiative, the band also supports students learning skilled trades.

The M72 Tour features state-of-the-art sound systems, giant video screens, and a round stage with a "Snake Pit" area in the middle where some lucky fans get up close. They travel with hundreds of crew members, and each show involves crazy logistics, including thousands of guitar picks and dozens of cameras. Guitarist Kirk Hammett recently said in an interview that the band might explore sounds similar to their Load and Reload albums from the mid-'90s.

Metallica is still going full speed—touring the world, putting out creative projects, and staying connected with fans. They're proving that after 40+ years, they're still one of the biggest and most beloved rock bands on Earth. People who went to the Denver concerts said it felt more like a spiritual experience than just music. Metallica's frontman, James Hetfield, made fans feel welcome, joking that once you're at their show, you're “part of the family.” Folks traveled from all over just to see them and even donated a ton of blood at the show’s blood drive, which set a new local record.

That's a wrap for my update on Metallica...In closing, please just know, Soundwave Music Media will be here and I will always do my best to bring you the rock music report! Please consider supporting me and the crew by purchasing a Soundwave shirt or hat and support our sponsors! Rock On! Until next time...🤘

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