Metallica frontman James Hetfield told fans at the band’s Las Vegas Sphere show Saturday that Metallica does not use its concerts to promote political agendas.
Hetfield thanked audience members who had traveled to attend, then said the band was there to help them leave outside concerns behind. He described Metallica’s purpose as bringing “love, energy and heavy music,” according to video of the remarks cited by Fox News.
He did not identify the performers he criticized. His comments reflect views he has expressed in previous interviews. In 2016, Hetfield told the BBC that Metallica generally avoided politics and religion because those subjects could divide people. In a 2017 interview with Chilean newspaper La Tercera, he similarly said he preferred to keep his political opinions private and connect with audiences through music.
The remarks came amid wider debate over musicians’ political statements at concerts. Fox News reported that rapper Macklemore was removed from scheduled opening performances on Ed Sheeran’s tour after making pro-Palestinian statements during a show. Sheeran said the decision was made by the promoter and venues, not by him. The article also cited other performers who have voiced political views onstage.
Metallica’s Sphere residency began Oct. 1 and is scheduled to run through March 13, 2027, according to the source. The article identifies the show where Hetfield spoke as taking place Saturday night but does not provide a calendar date.
