Metallica Covers
More than 30 years after Metallica released its debut album, there’s no debate about the influence of this L.A.-based heavy metal outfit. With eight GRAMMYs, five No. 1 albums, and a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction under its belt, this band continues to grow more popular and inspire new artists year after year.
In honor of the band’s upcoming tour--which includes a stop at Chicago’s Lollapalooza festival--we collected some of our favorite covers of Metallica songs. From small children at local fairs to mega-country stars at huge arenas, it seems like almost everyone has been touched by these iconic musicians.
The Mini Band covers “Enter Sandman”
There aren’t many things more adorable than little kids in rock bands, and of course we were able to find one covering “Enter Sandman.” There’s an especially awesome guitar solo from the band’s pint-sized lead guitarist, Zoe.
Bassnectar remixes “Seek and Destroy”
Even EDM can’t escape the influence of Metallica. Bassnectar is a notorious fan of metal bands, and so it’s no wonder he chose to remix “Seek and Destroy” off Metallica’s debut, “Kill ‘Em All.” (Incidentally, both Bassnectar and Metallica are on the Lollapalooza lineup this year, so there’s a good chance fans will get to see this remix live at the festival.)
Luke Bryan covers “Enter Sandman”
During Luke Bryan’s 2013 tour, he frequently played the iconic track “Enter Sandman” alongside his hit “All My Friends Say.” More recently Bryan has taken covers of Metallica songs off his regular setlist, but this live song duo remains a favorite of his diehard fans.
Umphrey’s McGee covers “…And Justice for All”
The jam band tradition has long included covers of other artists, so it’s no surprise that Umphrey’s McGee has taken a stab at performing the title track from Metallica’s 1988 release, “…And Justice for All.”
Richard Cheese covers “Enter Sandman”
New York native Richard Cheese has been delivering comedic lounge-style covers of rock and hip-hop bands since 2000. He released a cover of Metallica’s iconic “Enter Sandman” on his 2005 album, “Apertif for Destruction.”
Shakira covers “Nothing Else Matters”
Shakira’s covers of the Metallica song “Nothing Else Matters” were a staple on the setlist of her 2011 tour. The cover was even featured in her performance that year at Rock in Rio, a familiar festival stop for Metallica.
Snoop Dogg covers “Sad But True”
In 2003 Metallica was the third artist to be selected as MTV’s Icon of the year, and a slew of artists paid tribute to the band during the event’s televised special. By far the most unique Metallica cover at the show was Snoop Dogg’s performance of the early ‘90s single “Sad But True.”
Primus covers “Master of Puppets”
Primus’ accomplished bassist, Les Claypool, once auditioned for Metallica in the ‘80s. Although he wasn’t awarded a role in the band, he remains close friends with guitarist Kirk Hammett and has covered “Master of Puppets” on the road.
Warren Haynes and The Dead cover “Nothing Else Matters”
The Allman Brothers Band’s longtime guitarist Warren Haynes has frequently teamed up with surviving members of the Grateful Dead on tour since Jerry Garcia’s death in 1995. One of the top collaborations from those treks has been their cover of “Nothing Else Matters.”
Rodrigo y Gabriela play a “Metallica Medley” with Robert Trujillo
Mexican duo Rodrigo y Gabriela established its Metallica fandom early on--the two covered “Orion” on their 2006 self-titled album. On tour last fall, the acoustic guitar icons teamed up with longtime Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo at Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre to perform a 13-minute instrumental medley of the band’s top hits.