10 Defining Moments in the Life of James Hetfield
James Hetfield is an American musician, best known as the lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and co-founder of the heavy metal band Metallica.
1981-10-28
1981-10-28
Formed Metallica
Co-founded Metallica, a heavy metal band, in 1981 with drummer Lars Ulrich in Los Angeles, California.
Music
1983-07-25
1983-07-25
Release of Kill 'Em All
Metallica released their debut album 'Kill 'Em All', establishing them in the thrash metal scene.
Music
1986-09-27
1986-09-27
Cliff Burton's Death
Bassist Cliff Burton tragically died in a bus accident during a tour in Sweden.
Personal
1991-08-12
1991-08-12
Release of Metallica (The Black Album)
Metallica released their self-titled album, known as 'The Black Album', which achieved significant commercial success.
Music
1992-08-08
1992-08-08
Pyrotechnics Accident
Suffered severe burns from a pyrotechnics accident on stage in Montreal during the Guns N' Roses/Metallica Stadium Tour.
Personal
2001-07-19
2001-07-19
Entered Rehabilitation
Entered rehab to address alcoholism and other addiction issues.
Personal
2003-06-05
2003-06-05
Release of St. Anger
Released 'St. Anger', Metallica's eighth studio album, known for its raw sound and recording during Hetfield's rehabilitation.
Music
2009-04-04
2009-04-04
Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Metallica was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing their impact on the music industry.
Music
2013-09-27
2013-09-27
Through the Never Film Release
Released 'Through the Never', a concert film featuring live Metallica performances and a fictional storyline.
Film
2016-11-18
2016-11-18
Release of Hardwired... to Self-Destruct
Released 'Hardwired... to Self-Destruct', Metallica's tenth studio album, to critical and commercial success.
Music
Photos
Photos
James Hetfield's '56 Ford F100
"James Hetfield's '56 Ford F100" by aresauburn™ is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/.