Heavy metal just witnessed one of its most touching moments as James Hetfield delivered a tribute that had every metalhead reaching for tissues. The Metallica frontman’s heartfelt acknowledgment of Black Sabbath‘s foundational influence created an emotional highlight at Birmingham’s historic “Back to the Beginning” farewell concert.
The 61-year-old vocalist and rhythm guitarist addressed the crowd with genuine gratitude before Metallica’s five-song set, declaring his band’s eternal debt to the Birmingham legends. Hetfield’s sincere appreciation captured what most every metal musician feels about Black Sabbath’s genre-defining impact.
Standing before thousands at Villa Park, the American musician expressed Metallica’s honor at celebrating the band that essentially created their career path. His acknowledgment that Black Sabbath gave them “purpose in life” resonated deeply with fans who understand how the 1968-formed pioneers opened doors for countless metal bands.
@metalhammeruk @metallica have arrived. #backtothebeginning #blacksabbath #metallica
♬ original sound – metalhammeruk
Metallica’s tribute extended beyond words into their carefully curated setlist. The San Francisco-based band opened with “Hole in the Sky,” a Black Sabbath cover they hadn’t performed live since 2009, demonstrating their deep respect through musical homage. They also delivered “Johnny Blade” alongside their own classics including “Creeping Death,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “Battery,” and “Master of Puppets.”
The performance showcased how Hetfield’s distinctive raspy vocals and intricate rhythm playing have been influenced by Black Sabbath’s groundbreaking sound. His emotional delivery proved that even after four decades in metal, the genre’s biggest stars remain humble about their origins.
@gunsnroses108 #london🇬🇧🇬🇧 #backtothebeginning #metallica
♬ som original – GUNS N’ROSES
This moment exemplified the metal community’s supportive nature, where established legends openly celebrate their influences. Hetfield’s tribute reflected the genuine camaraderie that exists between generations of metal musicians, from Sabbath’s 1968 formation to Metallica’s 1981 Los Angeles beginnings.
Related: Legendary ‘Godfather of Heavy Metal’, 76, Performs Final Farewell Show and Fans Go Absolutely Wild
The Los Angeles-formed band’s presence at Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell celebration demonstrated their understanding of metal’s lineage. Without Black Sabbath’s occult themes, down-tuned guitars, and horror-inspired lyrics, the thrash metal movement that Metallica pioneered might never have existed.
Fan reactions to Hetfield’s tribute have been overwhelmingly positive, with comments praising Metallica as “always a class act” and celebrating their respectful acknowledgment of metal’s founding fathers.
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This emotional exchange between metal generations created a perfect moment highlighting how Black Sabbath’s influence continues inspiring new artists decades after their revolutionary 1968 formation in Birmingham.