The Metallica Report

Episode 138: Tony Smith - Former Metallica Tour Manager, Part 2 Mar 18, 2026 1544 This week on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée continue their chat with former tour manager Tony Smith, who offers a couple of great stories involving spontaneous problem-solving in Jakarta and the night of James’ pyro horror in Montreal during the stadium tour with Guns N’ Roses. Tony also offers some simple yet highly effective wisdom and speaks about one of his happiest experiences durin

Episode 137: Tony Smith - Former Metallica Tour Manager, Part 1 Mar 11, 2026 1278 This week on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée chat with former tour manager Tony Smith, who shares tales of his time with the band during the halcyon days of the late ’80s to the late ’90s. Tony talks about how he got involved with the band, early signs they were getting big, fax machines, and a legendary story titled “The Bet” involving Mr. Smith and a Porsche. The Metallica Report –

Episode 136: Sphere - Life Burns Faster with Kirk Hammett & Lars Ulrich Mar 4, 2026 1209 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée discuss Metallica’s forthcoming residency at Sphere in Las Vegas: Life Burns Faster. Joining them in the anticipation and excitement are Kirk Hammett and Lars Ulrich, with Lars having recently taken part in the inaugural ’Tallica Talk phone-in show on SiriusXM’s Maximum Metallica. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for all

Episode 135: Anatomy of A Song with Kirk Hammett on Fuel and Creeping Death Feb 25, 2026 1193 This week on The Metallica Report… Kirk Hammett checks in from the tropics to bring us through two songs he had a major hand in, “Fuel” and “Creeping Death.” In each case, he looks back at the influences that helped the ideas grow, as well as the guitars used to create them, and offers further insight into how the creative Kirk mind works. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide f

Episode 134: Hardwired To Disagree featuring Victoria Anderson & Brian Sharma Feb 18, 2026 1934 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée host another round of Hardwired To Disagree, where two Metallica Family members go head-to-head answering a series of ’Tallica-themed questions. This week’s passionate opinions are brought to us by Victoria Anderson and Brian Sharma, who—between flutes, barbecues, 30th anniversary shows, and Lulu—came prepared to entertain! The Metallica

Episode 133: Robert Trujillo on “The Call of Ktulu,” “Orion,” and the Spirit of Cliff Burton Feb 10, 2026 1971 This week on The Metallica Report… February 10 would have been Cliff Burton’s 64th birthday. In honor of our bell-bottomed titan of the bass, Robert Trujillo treats us to an in-depth conversation about “The Call of Ktulu” and “Orion.” He discusses the joys and challenges of learning the songs and bringing them to life, sharing the responsibility he feels to honor the tracks' DNA while infusing

Episode 132: Dr. Martens x Metallica & The Fans Feb 4, 2026 1241 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée speak with the real Metallica fans cast to model the band’s collaboration with cultural footwear icons Dr. Martens. From their relationship with Metallica to answering the casting call to seeing themselves in this global promotional campaign, we hear all about this whirlwind experience from father-daughter duo Rob and Ruby, and from footwear

Episode 131: Song Breakdown with Robert Trujillo: “You Must Burn!" Jan 28, 2026 1122 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée listen to Robert Trujillo break down one of 72 Season's deeper cuts, “You Must Burn!” Rob reveals why it is such a favorite of his, discusses how the song was written and what Metallica’s songwriting process is, and shares his “equipment secrets,” namely, which specific bass wins out in the studio and on stage. The Metallica Report – your

Episode 130: Adding (Virginia) Fuel to the Fan Debate Jan 21, 2026 1425 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée pose Metalli-questions to members of Virginia Fuel, one of the band’s local fan club chapters, in the return of Hardwired to Disagree. This latest debate keeps things all in the family for a classic battle of the sexes… will you side with the men or the women? The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for all things Metallica, str

Episode 129: James Hetfield Checks In Jan 14, 2026 1026 This week on The Metallica Report… It’s an early 2026 check-in with James Hetfield! From the big picture to day-to-day, he shares what three years of the M72 World Tour have taught him and what TV shows have been keeping him entertained lately. Meanwhile, Steff and Renée look back on "The Maximum Countdown," which closed out 2025 on SiriusXM’s Maximum Metallica, featuring the top 72 Metallica s

Episode 128: Hardwired to Disagree: Fan Debate ft. Chris Cantz, Chris Clark, and Daniel Guthormsen Jan 7, 2026 1840 This week on The Metallica Report… It’s another installment of our favorite fan debate segment, Hardwired to Disagree, where Steff and Renée pitch ’Talli-questions and scenarios to die-hard members of the Metallica Family. Chris Cantz, Chris Clark, and Daniel Guthormsen engage in a lively and passionate discussion; will they find common ground? Or are they Hardwired to Disagree? The Metallic

Episode 127: Happy New Year - Revisiting the Best of 2025 Dec 31, 2025 1608 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée revisit some of their favorite moments from 2025, pre-episode 100. Spoiler alert: we’re going to hear a lot from the band! Plus, James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett round out this year’s holiday commentary with their approach to New Year’s resolutions. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for all things Metallica, straight from t

Episode 126: Happy Holidays from James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett, and The Metallica Report Dec 24, 2025 695 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée search for the meaning of Christmas. Well… at least what it means to James and Kirk. The guitarists share how their families spend the holidays, including traditions, favorite movies, and some silly memories from Christmases past. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for all things Metallica, straight from the source. New epi

James Hetfield - “Twas The Night Before Christmas" Dec 19, 2025 243 “Twas The Night Before Christmas" by James Hetfield Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 125: Get The Load Out Special Dec 17, 2025 1732 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée do a deep dive into the hugely successful “Get The Load Out” competition, which has seen fans submit their cover versions of every cut from the Load album. We hear from participants Archie Heron and Luke McMordie, the band Scary Guys, and Fernando Nina, plus the two primary architects of the competition, HQ's Dan Nykolayko and Evan DeLong.

Episode 124: Robert Trujillo Roving Reporter: Formula 1 & Middle East Shows Dec 10, 2025 1130 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée settle in as official TMR Roving Reporter Robert Trujillo takes the reins. Robert chimes in on the band’s recent stint in Qatar, Bahrain, and Abu Dhabi as Metallica helped celebrate the thrilling finale of the Formula 1 season. He offers views and vibes from the stage, brings us into the F1 pits with the cars themselves, and manages to find g

Episode 123: James Hetfield & Kirk Hammett on Music, Surfing, and Humor Dec 3, 2025 1030 This week on The Metallica Report… Kirk Hammett speaks with Steffan and Renée about the importance of surfing whenever possible on tour. Meanwhile, James Hetfield discusses how he finds new music in 2025, plus he shares what’s keeping him smiling these days. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for all things Metallica, straight from the source. New episode every Wednesday.

Episode 122: James Hetfield & Kirk Hammett Give Thanks, Australian Chapter Heads Gather for a Roundtable Nov 26, 2025 1506 This week on The Metallica Report… James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett join Steffan Chirazi to discuss what Thanksgiving means to them and share their holiday plans. But first, we enjoy a good old-fashioned roundtable conversation with Chapter Heads Dainen Pearce (Australian Anesthesia), Justin Powell (Melbourne Militia), and Rod Williams (Acting Like A Tasmaniac) to put a bow on a spectacular run

Episode 121: James Hetfield & Robert Trujillo Check In from Australia Nov 19, 2025 1486 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan joins the band Down Under and gets the chance to sit down with James and Robert to hear a bit about the on- and off-stage shenanigans the guys have gotten up to in Australia. Surrounded by old friends and family, this leg of the M72 World Tour has proven to be a memorable one! Renée connects with Lise Sperling, a representative from Women's Communit

Episode 120: Metallica Brings the M72 World Tour to Australia & New Zealand Nov 12, 2025 1343 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée check in with Robert Trujillo as the band commences their tour Down Under in Perth. They also hear from Dainen Pearce, Chapter Head for Australian Anesthesia, about his Perth experience, and Rod Williams, Chapter Head for Acting Like A Tasmaniac, on his thoughts about the Adelaide gig. Both chapter heads also discuss the global Metallica comm

Episode 119: The Metallica Fan Debate Rages On Nov 5, 2025 1391 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée pick back up with part two of The Fan Debate, featuring super fans Don & Carla Hammond and Tricia & Andrew Dowis. This week, it’s all about the music as the couples go back and forth naming which Metallica song they would crown as the most underrated, the best for date night, the best cover song, and which holds the best Hetfield lyrics. T

Episode 118: The Metallica Fan Debate Oct 29, 2025 1665 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée sit down with two Metallica super-fan couples, Don & Carla Hammond and Tricia & Andrew Dowis, in this TMR debut of The Fan Debate. From ultimate band dinner guest to best live show, the quartet shares entertaining, provocative, and thoughtful opinions as they react and respond to our hosts’ questions. Become A Fifth Member: metallica.com/

Episode 117: Kirk Hammett - The Collector Oct 22, 2025 1172 This week on The Metallica Report… Steff sits down to talk about various aspects of collecting with Kirk Hammett, who, aside from being a guitar legend, is also a legendary collector of various items such as horror memorabilia and, of course, guitars. Kirk discusses a few of his favorite horror pieces, tales of rare acquisitions, collecting challenges, his personal collecting philosophy, and wh

Episode 116: Digging Deeper into Metallica’s Vault Oct 15, 2025 1167 This week on The Metallica Report… We wrap up our final 2025 visit to Iveniem, home to the real-life Metallica Black Box. Dan Nykolayko (Metallica’s in-house curator) and Ally Bace (Inveniem archivist) join Steffan to sift through boxes, bags, and tapes to uncover more rich Metalli-gold. The excitement during this last mad rummage is palpable as the trio uncovers vintage Polaroids, ancient demo

Episode 115: Get The Load Out Contest and Josh Rezz Oct 8, 2025 1290 This week on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée deep dive into the #GetTheLoadOut Fan Cover Song Contest currently running across Metallica’s social channels, where fans are invited to offer their interpretations of each track on Load. Renée also sits down with musician, content creator, and influencer Josh Rezz—who will be guest judging a couple of the forthcoming submissions—to discuss w

Episode 114: Robert Trujillo’s Radio Roots Oct 1, 2025 2088 This week on The Metallica Report… Robert Trujillo sits down with Steffan & Renée to reflect on the impact and importance of radio on his early life, from his Grandma’s transistor to car rides with his mom. RT also salutes the local stations of the era, reinvokes a big name on the SoCal radio scene, and discusses how SiriusXM has taken on the mantle of being that vital cultural connector. Joini

Episode 113: Exodus’ Gary Holt Talks Kirk Hammett and Bay Area Thrash Sep 24, 2025 1451 This week on The Metallica Report… Gary Holt—the veteran lead guitarist of Exodus and, more recently, a member of Slayer—speaks to us about his longtime friendship with Kirk Hammett. From their school days to the stage, Gary explains how Exodus and Metallica came up in the Bay Area scene through his unique lens. Gary paints a wonderful picture of a couple of dedicated outsiders whose love of me

Episode 112: Catching Up With Robert Trujillo Sep 17, 2025 1342 This week on The Metallica Report… Robert Trujillo checks in with Steff and Renée to reflect on his busy summer, including two memorable SoCal shows with Infectious Grooves and, of course, the impactful Back to the Beginning experience and Ozzy Osbourne’s enormous legacy. Rob also discusses a personal magical moment from that Villa Park celebration, and gives us a peek into what Metallica music

Episode 111: Back To The Metallica Vault Sep 10, 2025 1228 This week on The Metallica Report… It’s another gloves-on adventure at Inveniem, home to the real-life Metallica Black Box. Spider-Dan, Inveniem’s Ally Bace, and Steffan unearth grocery lists, handwritten lyrics, and early band name sketches. There’s also an amusing self-written biography of the band, more vintage fan correspondence, and the answer to a long-debated lyrical question courtesy of

Episode 110: Maximum Metallica with Lars Ulrich Sep 3, 2025 1882 This week on The Metallica Report… It’s Maximum Metallica all the way as we celebrate the launch of the band’s brand new, permanent SiriusXM channel! Lars Ulrich shares some of his most enduring memories of radio, including listening in the car after moving to the US, and early exposure to two of his favorites, Howard Stern and Oasis. He also reflects on the brave nature of SiriusXM program

Episode 109: More Metalli-archeology at the Inveniem Vault Aug 27, 2025 1262 This week on The Metallica Report… We dive right back into another Metalli-treasure excavation with Steffan, Dan Nykolayko, and Ally Bace at the Inveniem, the home of the real-life Metallica Black Box. Among this excursion’s highlights are a rare Kirk Hammett artifact, old and intriguing setlists, and a discussion about that glorious old nugget, the cassette tape! Not to be forgotten, the CD lo

Episode 108: High Voltage: A Return To Metallica’s Vault at Inveniem Aug 20, 2025 1683 This week on The Metallica Report… We're back at Inveniem, home of The Metallica Black Box, for yet another deep dive into some authentic Metalli-artifacts in the Vault. This time, the band’s content curator and digital museum custodian, Dan Nykolayko, joins Inveniem’s Ally Bace and Steffan for a bit of Metalli-archeology. Don’t worry, the gloves are most certainly on this time as the group com

Episode 107: Steff & Renée’s Top Metallica Songs Aug 13, 2025 1558 This week on The Metallica Report… Steff & Renée enjoy a good old-fashioned cohost chat, sharing the Metallica songs that hold the most meaning for them, telling stories behind their picks, and reminiscing about pivotal moments in their own personal Metallica journeys. There’s also news about the Metallica Marching Band competition – with big prizes in play – plus there’s official word of thing

Episode 106: The Bob Rock & Dan Nykolayko Chat Continued (Part 2) Aug 6, 2025 1151 This week on The Metallica Report… We pick back up with the in-depth chat between Bob Rock and Dan Nykolayko, this time featuring our own Steffan Chirazi. From the importance of a good shaker to the “viral load” that Metallica music indisputably holds, it’s another fun and informative journey into this producer’s unique era of Metallica. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for

Episode 105: A Chat Between Bob Rock & Dan Nykolayko (Part 1) Jul 30, 2025 1782 This week on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée cede microphones to Bob Rock and Dan Nykolayko. In this first installment of a two-part discussion, we hear about Bob’s creative journey with Metallica, his recollections of the Load era, and a few studio stories. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for all things Metallica, straight from the source. New episode every Wedn

Episode 104: Jason Newsted on The Load Era Jul 23, 2025 1263 This week on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée hear from Jason Newsted, who brings his trademark honesty and enthusiasm to a chat about Metallica’s Load era. Enjoy his unique perspective on the band’s adventures in Tuktoyaktuk, the Sausalito recording sessions, and preparing for the rigors of Poor Touring Me. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for all things Metallica, st

Episode 103: Fans Put Together A Deep-Dive Playlist Jul 16, 2025 1637 This week on The Metallica Report… Renée and Steff are delighted to showcase a fan-crafted deep-dive playlist, each featuring uniquely personal reasons for inclusion. We hear from Simon Cloutier, Ola Aarrestad, Ron Clark, Raquel Saddler, and Sarah and Pete Sobek about the special cuts that mean so much to them. Plus, from an undisclosed location in Vaultsville, we hear a special-edition DanLoad p

Episode 102: Back To The Beginning - Farewell to Black Sabbath & Ozzy Osbourne featuring Robert Trujillo Jul 9, 2025 1481 The week of July 9, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Renée and Steff talk all things Back To The Beginning, the Black Sabbath reunion and farewell show. Steff brings us through Birmingham and backstage at Villa Park, catching the celebratory vibe of happy homage in the days leading up to and including the main event. Robert Trujillo, the man with a uniquely personal working relationship with the Pri

Episode 101: All Hail Black Sabbath & Ozzy - James, Lars, Kirk, and Robert Share Stories Ahead of Sabbath’s Legendary Farewell Appearance Jul 2, 2025 1743 The week of July 2, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Metallica is just days away from performing at Back To The Beginning, Black Sabbath’s long-awaited reunion and farewell show in Birmingham, England, with a heavy-hitting lineup of Sabbath-admirers. Ramping up in the excitement, Steff and Renée hear James, Lars, Kirk, and Robert share their earliest memories of hearing Sabbath’s mighty music. Rober

Episode 100: Roundtable Q&A with James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo Jun 25, 2025 1718 The week of June 25, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée celebrate 100 episodes of The Metallica Report! Joining them for this major milestone are James, Lars, Kirk, and Robert for a roundtable-style question and answer session fueled by fan submissions. It’s fun, loose, and engaging—the quintessential Metalli-chat vibe. The Metallica Report – your official, weekly guide for all t

Episode 99: “Metallica Saved My Life” Premiere at Tribeca Festival, featuring Robert Trujillo & Metallica Fans Jun 18, 2025 1446 The Week of June 18, 2025 on The Metallica Report… We report from the Tribeca Festival in New York City, where the band’s new documentary, Metallica Saved My Life, received its official premiere. Robert Trujillo delves into what a team effort this project was, and the Metallica Family stars of the movie — Lina Khatib, Camila Guerrero Diaz, Jose Ochoa, Austin Manning, Valerie Leclerc, and Glenn No

Bonus Ep: DanLoad Extra! More from Inside the Load Box Set Jun 13, 2025 885 On Friday the 13th and in honor of release day, Steff & Renée hand it over to Dan Nykolayko — the band’s Director of Digital Content and curator of these massive reissues—to go further into the Load Remastered Deluxe Box Set. Dan discusses the album itself, Atmos mixes, and some never-before-heard Motörhead covers, among many more treasures to discover. There are literally “loads” to enjoy in thi

Episode 98: James Hetfield & Robert Trujillo, plus the Third DanLoad Installment Jun 11, 2025 1722 The week of June 11, 2025 on The Metallica Report… James and Robert answer a couple of listener questions, addressing their influences, inspiration, and where life might have taken them if they weren’t in Metallica. We also hear the third installment of the DanLoad from Dan Nykolayko, this week exploring the DVDs in the back-breakingly gargantuan Load (Remastered) Deluxe Box Set. The Metallica R

Episode 97: Metallica’s Marching Band Magic & The Latest DanLoad of Unreleased Content Jun 4, 2025 1658 The week of June 4th, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Steff & Renée discuss The Metallica Marching Band competition and hear from Virginia Tech’s Athletic Musical Director, Polly Middleton, how The Marching Virginians create their stadium-shaking interpretation of “Enter Sandman.” Then, on this week’s DanLoad, we dive deep into the world of “Shadowcast” and other related Load Deluxe Box Set morsel

Episode 96: Robert Trujillo, Mike Muir, and Tye Trujillo plus the DanLoad May 28, 2025 2061 The week of May 28, 2025 on The Metallica Report… It’s a family affair! Steff and Renée hear from Robert Trujillo, Mike Muir, and Tye Trujillo on the magical bond of generational family ties between Suicidal Tendencies, Team Trujillo, and Metallica. And Dan Nykolayko takes the mic as he drops the first DanLoad, a segment that dives deep into the live audio included in the huge Load Deluxe Box Set

Episode 95: The Load Box Set Chat featuring Curators Dan Nykolayko and Eleni Psaltis May 21, 2025 1961 The week of May 21, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée sit down with Dan Nykolayko and Eleni Psaltis, the curators of the upcoming Load Deluxe Box Set. From what the band envisioned to chasing down previously undiscovered recordings and live performances, Dan and Eleni bring us from Lars’ basement to Inveniem and everywhere in between while they discuss the scope of—and stories behind—

Episode 94: M72 - From Virginia Tech- to Band Relationships with James, Kirk, and Robert May 14, 2025 1212 The week of May 14, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée reflect on a seismic night at Lane Stadium with the Virginia Tech Hokies, while James and Kirk consider how the latest phase of inter-band relationships is proving such positive fuel for both Metallica and M72 in 2025. Then, Robert runs through his “match day routine,” and James answers a question posed by fan Scott Vanderveer. Th

Episode 93: Enter Sandman May 7, 2025 1656 The week of May 7, 2025 on The Metallica Report… This week is all about “...Sandman,” “...Sandman,” “ and more “...Sandman.” First, we hear from James Hetfield about his developing appreciation for the equestrian world after meeting Sandman, the horse that just competed in the Kentucky Derby. Steff and Renée are also joined by the Virginia Fuel Chapter to chat about Virginia Tech's “Enter Sandma

Episode 92: James Hetfield on the Return of M72, Songs, and Superstitions Apr 30, 2025 1234 The week of April 30, 2025 on The Metallica Report… With M72 2025 in full stride, James Hetfield sits down to discuss what it’s like to be back on the M72 stage, his relationship with some of those older songs, and his rituals and superstitions—on and off the road. James also shares his latest humorous, pre-tour nightmare anxieties and goes all-in on answering a fan’s question about the song “Esc

Episode 91: M72 Relaunch in Syracuse Starring Kirk Hammett, Robert Trujillo, and the Fans Apr 23, 2025 1362 The week of April 22, 2025 on The Metallica Report… As soon as the show in Syracuse concludes, Steffan and Renée are hard at work recapping the M72 2025 kickoff, still riding high off the energy in the JMA Wireless Dome. And no report is hotter off the press than Steff’s conversation with Robert Trujillo in the back of his van, leaving the venue. We also get the inside scoop from Robert and Kirk

Episode 90: Syracuse Inbound - Countdown To The Start Of M72 2025 At HQ Apr 16, 2025 1660 The week of April 16, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Steffan has set up shop in the middle of HQ on a rehearsal day as he and Renée count down the days until Syracuse hosts Metallica for the first time in 29 years! After a surprise guest quickly crashes the pod, Steff chats with superfan Todd Styles, and Renée gets the rundown on the M72 Blood Drives from Darren Irby of the American Red Cross. Our

Episode 89: Best Live Memories - Metallica Fans Share Their Favorite Gigs Apr 9, 2025 1851 The week of April 9, 2025 on The Metallica Report… As the anticipation for M72 2025 builds, dedicated members of the Metallica Family chime in with their favorite Metallica moments. Martijn van Wieringen, Robert Elliot, April Mancuso, Chris Yerges, and Tory Eide each bring us to the heart of their chosen live memories accompanied by music from each respective show. And our hosts—always willing to

Episode 88: Metallica Scholars Chat with Robert Trujillo Apr 2, 2025 1449 The week of April 2, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Renee, Steff, and Robert Trujillo meet three of the many magnificent students from the Metallica Scholars Initiative, the marquee program funded by the band’s foundation, All Within My Hands. During a Zoom call hosted by the American Association of Community Colleges, we hear from Danira, a welding student challenging gender norms; Dryden, who sw

Episode 87: The Collection - Kirk Hammett Speaks About His New Guitar Book Mar 26, 2025 2020 The week of March 26, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Kirk Hammett joins to talk about his brand new book with Gibson Publishing, The Collection: Kirk Hammett, and dives into a series of stories about the guitars within its pages. From Flying Vs to Les Pauls—with plenty of other gems in between—Kirk discusses his relationship with these instruments, what they mean to him spiritually, the influences

Episode 86: Smashing Boundaries - A Dive into Metallica’s Immersive Apple Vision Pro Experience Mar 20, 2025 1754 The week of March 19, 2025 on The Metallica Report… We explore Metallica’s collaboration with Apple to create a pioneering, 25-minute live concert film from the M72 Mexico City stop in September 2024 using immersive technology with Apple Vision Pro. Lars Ulrich, Zane Lowe, and Robert Trujillo chime in about how this technology breaks the fourth wall between the band and the fans. Then, members

Episode 85: Let There Be Light! A Chat with Metallica’s Lighting Designer Rob Koenig Mar 12, 2025 2368 The week of March 12, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée chat with Metallica’s lighting director, designer, and all-around music lover, Rob Koenig. A true wealth of knowledge, he discusses his process, lighting concepts behind M72, previous tours, new lighting technology, and why rainstorms are no longer a threat for Metallica shows. Rob also details his enormous passion for music, his

Episode 84: The HQ Audio Crew Starring Sara Killion & Kent Matcke Mar 5, 2025 2105 The week of March 5, 2025 on The Metallica Report… We’re back at HQ to speak with two vital members of the HQ Audio Crew and arguably the kindest people in the building: Sara Killion and Kent Matcke. Chief among Sara’s many responsibilities as producer Greg Fidelman’s trusted studio aide is charting and mapping every sound that Metallica makes while recording. Meanwhile, Kent facilitates audio

Episode 83: Treasures from James Hetfield’s Archives - Further Exploration of Metallica’s Vault Feb 26, 2025 1340 The week of February 26, 2025 on The Metallica Report… We pick back up with Steff and Renée, who are still immersed in Metallica’s archival vault. In this episode, they travel down a James Hetfield rabbit hole filled with original notebooks, lyrics, doodles, and more. Reveling in the energy emanating from the pages, our hosts seize the opportunity to get an intimate read on the frontman from a mu

Episode 82: Behind the Doors of Inveniem - A Visit to Metallica’s Archival Vaults Feb 19, 2025 2330 The week of February 19, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Led by Inveniem archivist Ally Bace, Steff and Renée enter the Metallica vault to explore physical pieces of the band’s history, including master tapes, handwritten notes, diaries, clothing, and so much more. Ally discusses her journey to becoming an archivist, the forensic process of handling the artifacts, and the emotional power these piec

Episode 81: Inside Metallica HQ; Meet the Runners Feb 12, 2025 2329 The week of February 12, 2025 on The Metallica Report… We speak with the Metallica HQ Studio Runners—Jackson Langford, Jack Ketchum, Alex Coltharp, and Dana Lindstrom—about their tasks and duties around the building and beyond. From massive lunch runs to damaging cars and walls (with a purpose, of course) and from restringing guitars to joining the touring crew, some assignments are definitely le

Episode 80: David Fricke - Metallica’s Journey in Rolling Stone Magazine Feb 5, 2025 2886 The week of February 5, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Legendary music critic David Fricke details his decades-long journey with Metallica, writing some of rock journalism’s most unflinching and detailed stories about the band through the pages of Rolling Stone magazine. Beginning with their first full-assignment encounter on the Damaged Justice tour, David shares observations of Metallica’s uniqu

Episode 79: Jimmy Clark - Laughter, Loyalty, and Life as Lars Ulrich’s Drum Tech Jan 29, 2025 2065 The week of January 29, 2025 on The Metallica Report… Percussionist Jimmy Clark, also known in the Metallica world as Lars Ulrich’s tech, joins us to share stories of his own career, how he became friends with a mischievous young Danish drummer back in the day, his industry education in Nashville, and how he worked his way from the rafters to the stage with Metallica. Jimmy also discusses his own

Episode 78: Justin Crew - Enter the World of Kirk Hammett’s Guitar Tech Jan 22, 2025 2124 The week of January 22, 2025 on The Metallica Report… We continue our techs-behind-the-band series with Justin Crew, Kirk Hammett’s right-hand guitar-man of 29 years. Justin recounts the genesis of his own career from Go West to AC/DC, how he landed the Metallica/Hammett gig, the terror of flatbed trucks, being on the Poor Touring Me tour, and what his work on M72 requires. Justin also discusses

Episode 77: Chad Zaemisch - Inside the Mind of James Hetfield’s Guitar Tech Jan 15, 2025 2398 The week of January 15, 2025 on The Metallica Report… We hear from guitar tech Chad Zaemisch. He shares what it’s like being interviewed for a job by prospective boss James Hetfield, then details his creative and technical approach to the role. He discusses how the gig has changed over the last 22 years, what working a show is like, and the importance of trust in his relationship with James. Fina

Episode 76: James Hetfield on Words & Lyrics Jan 8, 2025 1582 The week of January 8, 2025 on The Metallica Report… We speak with James Hetfield about his perennial and peerless lyrics. Our songwriter shares what he loves about the architecture of words, whether he sees himself as a storyteller, and his appreciation of Tom Waits. Then, we take a trip back through the So What! archives to revisit his approach to songs such as “Harvester Of Sorrow,” “Moth Into

Episode 75: Best of TMR 2024 with Metallica & More Jan 1, 2025 1824 The week of January 1, 2025 on The Metallica Report… As we welcome 2025, Steff and Renée had to take one last chance to appreciate the year that was with their favorite moments and guests from The Metallica Report 2024. From bird-watching to high school memories to world tour vibes, this one covers a lot of ground! So sit back and enjoy reminiscing with James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett,

Episode 74: Lars Ulrich, Rob Trujillo Dec 25, 2024 1346 The week of December 25, 2024 on The Metallica Report… With the holiday season in full swing, we hear from Metallica’s confirmed cinephile, Lars Ulrich. Having seen 18 films at the Mill Valley Film Festival alone, he speaks about some of his favorite movies over the last few months. And for good measure, Steff has him throw in his current musical flavors, as well. Meanwhile, Robert Trujillo shar

Episode 73: Lars Ulrich, Robert Trujillo, Jason Momoa, LA Rams’ Rob Havenstein Dec 18, 2024 2038 The week of December 18, 2024 on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée bring all the details from last week’s Helping Hands Concert & Auction at YouTube Theater in Los Angeles. Coverage starts during rehearsals when Lars and Robert share the band’s approach to the unique nature of this traditionally acoustic/electric show. Metallica superfan Jason Momoa takes us back to his entrée into music, hi

Episode 72: Helping Hands Honorees Jeff Ament, Maggie Baird Dec 11, 2024 2430 The week of December 11, 2024 on The Metallica Report… Steff and Renée are getting ready for the fourth biennial Helping Hands Concert & Auction on Friday, December 13, by speaking with two of this year’s honorees. First, Renée catches up with actress Maggie Baird (aka the mother of Billie Eilish and Finneas) from Support + Feed. If that organization sounds familiar, it’s because Support + Feed

Episode 71: Zach Harmon Talks Guitar Picks Dec 4, 2024 1111 The week of December 4, 2024 on The Metallica Report… Metallica’s long-time tech, Zach Harmon, sits down to offer an overview of how the humble yet venerated guitar pick has developed over the years for this band. Zach explains the importance of shapes, colors, sizes, and styles of these tiny tools of the trade and reveals his own fervent attention to detail and creativity when it comes to such t

Episode 70: Happy Thanksgiving from the Metallica Family Nov 27, 2024 966 The week of November 27, 2024 on The Metallica Report… Here in America, we’re celebrating Thanksgiving tomorrow. For many of us, Thanksgiving day is full of lots of food, of course, and spending time with family. “Family.” That word can mean so many different things depending on who you ask. So, we checked in with a few people in our orbit to hear what family means to them, kicking it off with ou

Episode 69: Filmmaker Adam Dubin Nov 20, 2024 1466 The week of November 20, 2024 on The Metallica Report… Adam Dubin, the man behind A Year and a Half in the Life of Metallica, joins Steffan and Renée to revisit his time behind the Metallica curtain and share why his approach to filming struck the right chord. He also gives us a more personal look into a pivotal time in the lives of the young band members. The Metallica Report - your official, w

Episode 68: A Conversation with Robert Trujillo & Jerry Cantrell Nov 13, 2024 2111 The week of November 13, 2024 on The Metallica Report… This special episode of “The Metallica Report” delivers a rare conversation between Jerry Cantrell of Alice In Chains and Metallica’s own Robert Trujillo. With Steffan’s help, the pair delve into their early days, sharing their influences and how they first connected. They also discuss their work together on Jerry’s solo work, particularly his

Episode 67: James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo Remember Jonny and Marsha Zazula Nov 6, 2024 1366 The week of November 6, 2024 on The Metallica Report… On the anniversary of 2022’s tribute show honoring the lives of Jonny and Marsha Zazula, James, Lars, Kirk, and Robert remember the pair who jumpstarted Metallica’s career with Megaforce Records. In 1983, the right man on the opposite coast got ahold of a No Life ’Til Leather cassette tape. This man and his business partner/wife became integr

Episode 66: James Hetfield; Robert Trujillo; Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills Oct 30, 2024 1514 The Week of October 30, 2024 on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée have a lot of ground to cover. First, our hosts ask Robert Trujillo and artist Rhys Cooper about Metallica’s return to Australia. Then, in the Spooky Season spirit, James and Robert chime in on what horror is to them. Finally, Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills joins the podcast to discuss “A Work of Art,” the band’s song and

Episode 65: James Hetfield; Kirk Hammett Oct 23, 2024 1104 The week of October 23, 2024 on The Metallica Report… In honor of World Mental Health Day, Steffan and Renée tackle the important issue of self-care with James and Kirk, as Metallica’s guitarists share their secrets for staying healthy both in mind and body. James discusses meditation—how it has helped him, the many forms it takes, and why sometimes disengaging from the world is necessary. Kir

Episode 64: Pinball Wizardry - Jody Dankberg, Stern Pinball; Jeff Yeager; Rhys Cooper Oct 16, 2024 1726 The week of October 16, 2024 on The Metallica Report… It’s all about Metallica Remastered, the new machine from the premier pinball game designers and manufacturers at Stern Pinball. Renée moderates a roundtable discussion of the evolution of the game with Stern’s Director of Licensing and Marketing, Jody Dankberg, artist and designer of the graphics, Rhys Cooper, and our in-house Pinball Wizard,

Episode 63: Kirk Hammett; James Hetfield Oct 9, 2024 1132 The week of October 9, 2024 on The Metallica Report… Steffan and Renée are joined by Kirk Hammett to discuss one of the most revered guitars in rock and roll history: Greeny. One part Gibson Les Paul Standard and one part magic, Kirk gushes about his relationship with what he has dubbed “The People’s Guitar.” But even the best guitars and guitarists are incomplete without a kick-ass tech, so Kirk

Episode 62: James Hetfield; Reports from Mexico City; S7N and “Sin Barreras” Oct 2, 2024 1235 The week of October 2, 2024 on The Metallica Report… Steffan gives Renée —and all of us—the lowdown on how Metallica’s two weekends in Mexico City wrapped up, including updates on support acts, Lucha Libre, Robert’s Spanish, James’ take on Robert and Kirk’s spotlight in the set, and the way metal is deeply rooted in the region’s culture. Episode 60 guest Karla Farrugia (Mexitallica Chapter Head)

Episode 61: James Hetfield; Metallica’s Director of Digital Content, Dan Nykolayko; Members of Mexitallica Sep 25, 2024 1634 The week of September 25, 2024 on The Metallica Report… We hear an excerpt of James Hetfield’s conversation about his relationship with Cliff Burton, as delivered by one of the driving forces behind “Orion: A Tribute to Cliff Burton,” Dan Nykolayko. Joining Steffan, Dan also discusses this final installment of the exhibit, and what he learned about the iconic bassist. While in Mexico City, Steff

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