Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett recently paid tribute to Kazuaki Kanetoyo, known as Kirz Hammett from the tribute band Hattallica, following his passing due to cancer, as reported on Instagram.
Hammett shared an emotional statement honoring the late musician. He expressed his condolences and respect for Kanetoyo’s talent and character.
“It’s with a heavy heart that we pay our respects to Kazuaki Kanetoyo aka Kirz Hammett,” Hammett said. “A talented musician, always friendly and happy. And now he’s shredding in the stars. RIP Kirz Hammett!”
The tribute band Hattallica also shared a statement from Kanetoyo’s family regarding his passing.
“To everyone who supported my husband, Kirz Hammett, it’s with heavy heart and a profound sense of loss I share this news,” the statement read. “My beloved husband, Kirz Hammett (Kazuaki Kanetoyo) of Hattallica, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026, due to leptomeningeal carcinomatosis.”
The loss of Kanetoyo represents more than just the passing of a tribute artist. It highlights the deep connections formed between original bands and their dedicated interpreters worldwide.
Kanetoyo died at age 52 from leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, a rare complication of metastatic cancer where tumor cells spread to the meninges and cerebrospinal fluid. The condition developed following an initial lung cancer diagnosis in late 2025. This marked the end of a courageous battle against the disease.
Hattallica was formed in 2005 in Tokyo. The group stands as one of Japan’s most prominent Metallica tribute bands. The group earned international acclaim for their faithful recreations of Metallica’s live performances, complete with pyrotechnics and era-specific costumes. Kanetoyo served as a founding member whose uncanny resemblance and shredding style mimicking Kirk Hammett helped the band achieve sold-out shows at prestigious venues like Tokyo’s O-East. They also performed at festivals such as Fuji Rock side stages.
The relationship between Metallica and their tribute acts has always been notably positive. Kirk Hammett has previously expressed appreciation for tribute bands in interviews. He noted that acts like Hattallica “keep the flame alive” and foster meaningful connections between the original band and global fan communities. This supportive stance has led to informal endorsements from Metallica members over the years.
On April 27, 2026, Kirk Hammett posted his heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing: “RIP Kirz Hammett. Your passion for the riffs brought our music to life in Japan. Shred on, brother.” The post garnered over 500,000 likes within hours. This demonstrated the widespread impact of both Kanetoyo’s musical contributions and the genuine bond between Metallica and their tribute artists worldwide.
