During a recent appearance on the Metallica Report, James Hetfield discussed the missing elements in Metallica performances.
When asked about his ideal technological or innovative advancement that could enhance or transform the way he works on stage, the singer replied by saying:
“I think it would be great if the way our stages in me being a guitar player and singer, I’m not holding the mic, I’m not able to go anywhere. So there are mic stations everywhere, and for our monitor guy to chase me around for all the mics, he can’t have them all open because it sounds insane, especially in an indoor stadium.”
Desired Innovations For Enhanced Stage Presence
He went on to detail what he would like to see in his working environment:
“He’s chasing me around, holding a mic up, and sometimes it is not on when I go up there. It’s on and house because he can see where I am at, holding that mic up, but sometimes he can’t see, and you know, I don’t hear the first few words or something. It would be nice to have some kind of whatever… I’m sure they probably have something like that.”
Additional Things For An Improved Performance Experience
Hetfield also mentioned another tool he wishes existed to improve his day-to-day activities as a member of Metallica:
“If you’re wearing something and you’re within two feet of the microphone, turn it on, something like that. So it would make their job a little easier and mine as well. And being able to maybe sip some water while I’m playing, you know, some kind of straw on the microphone. I don’t know, something else like that. There is always something that could be cool.”
Reflections On Goals For 2024
The frontman reflected on what he expects from 2024, as well during the episode, as he noted:
“I guess the New Year is kind of a cleansing, and I’ve got a new goal or something. I’m really just continuing to try and improve myself, get better, have a better attitude about life, about other people’s lives, and just try to bring as much joy to people as possible.”
Metallica’s ‘M72 World Tour,’ promoting their latest album, ’72 Seasons,’ will continue until the end of September next year. The band will kick off their first 2024 concerts on May 24 and 26 in Munich, Germany.
You can listen to the full podcast below.
