Editing Metallica (section)

==History==
===1981–1984: Formation, early years, and ''Kill 'Em All''===
Metallica was formed in [[Los Angeles]] in late 1981 when Danish drummer [[Lars Ulrich]] placed an advertisement in a Los Angeles newspaper, ''[[The Recycler]]'', which read, "Drummer looking for other metal musicians to jam with [[Tygers of Pan Tang]], [[Diamond Head (English band)|Diamond Head]] and [[Iron Maiden]]."<ref name="Timeline 1">{{cite web|title=Metallica Timeline Early 1981 – Early 1982|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090315095541/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=1|publisher=MTV|archive-date=March 15, 2009|access-date=May 28, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> Guitarists [[James Hetfield]] and Hugh Tanner of [[Leather Charm]] answered the advertisement. Although he had not formed a band, Ulrich asked [[Metal Blade Records]] founder [[Brian Slagel]] if he could record a song for the label's upcoming compilation album, ''[[Metal Massacre]]''. Slagel accepted, and Ulrich recruited Hetfield to sing and play rhythm guitar.<ref name="Timeline 1"/> The band was officially formed on October 28, 1981, five months after Ulrich and Hetfield first met.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metallica.com/history.html |title=History – Metallica |website=Metallica |access-date=March 2, 2020 |archive-date=April 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401002504/https://www.metallica.com/history.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.metallica.com/timeline.asp?page=events&n_categoryid=1988&year=1981?sPosx=41 |title=1981: Events |publisher=Metallica.com |access-date=December 26, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090623031847/http://www.metallica.com/timeline.asp?page=events&n_categoryid=1988&year=1981%3FsPosx%3D41 |archive-date=June 23, 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

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The band name came from Ulrich's friend Ron Quintana, who was brainstorming names for a fanzine and was considering ''MetalMania'' or ''Metallica''. After hearing the two names, Ulrich wanted the latter for his band, so he suggested Quintana use ''MetalMania'' instead.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://rockandrollgarage.com/lars-ulrich-tells-chose-name-metallica-band/|title=Lars Ulrich tells how they chose the name Metallica for the band|first=Rafael|last=Polcaro|website=Rockandrollgrage.com|date=January 5, 2018|access-date=May 3, 2019|archive-date=May 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190503062258/http://rockandrollgarage.com/lars-ulrich-tells-chose-name-metallica-band/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Dave Mustaine]] replied to an advertisement for a lead guitarist; Ulrich and Hetfield recruited him after seeing his expensive guitar equipment. In early 1982, Metallica recorded its first original song, "Hit the Lights", for the ''Metal Massacre I'' compilation. Hetfield sang and played both bass and rhythm guitar, while Lars Ulrich played drums and Lloyd Grant was credited with a guitar solo.<ref name="Timeline 1"/> ''Metal Massacre I'' was released on June 14, 1982; early pressings listed the band incorrectly as "Mettallica", angering the band.<ref>{{cite web|last=Saulnier|first=Jason|url=http://musiclegends.ca/interviews/lloyd-grant-interview-metallica/|title=Lloyd Grant Interview|publisher=Music Legends|access-date=May 6, 2013|date=January 4, 2012|archive-date=March 23, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160323063410/http://musiclegends.ca/interviews/lloyd-grant-interview-metallica/|url-status=live}}</ref> The song generated [[word of mouth]], and the band played its first live performance on March 14, 1982, at Radio City in [[Anaheim, California]], with newly recruited bassist [[Ron McGovney]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica Timeline March&nbsp;14, 1982 – July 6, 1982|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=2|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090411200826/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=2|publisher=MTV|archive-date=April 11, 2009|access-date=May 28, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> Their first live success came early; they were chosen to open for British heavy metal band [[Saxon (band)|Saxon]] at one gig of their 1982 U.S. tour. This was Metallica's second gig. Metallica recorded its first demo, ''[[Power Metal (Metallica album)|Power Metal]]'', whose name was inspired by Quintana's early business cards, in early 1982.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-01-20 |title=Oto pierwsza wizytówka Metalliki z napisem "power metal" [FOTO] - Antyradio |url=https://www.antyradio.pl/muzyka/Rock-News/Byly-basista-Metalliki-pokazal-pierwsza-wizytowke-Metalliki-45865 |access-date=2025-05-03 |website=www.antyradio.pl |language=pl}}</ref>

The term "[[thrash metal]]" was coined in February 1984 by ''[[Kerrang!]]'' journalist [[Malcolm Dome]] in reference to [[Anthrax (American band)|Anthrax]]'s song "[[Metal Thrashing Mad]]".<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Dome|first=Malcolm|author-link=Malcolm Dome|magazine=[[Kerrang!]]|title=Anthrax: Fistful Of Metal|volume=62|date=February 23, 1984|page=8}}</ref> Prior to this, Hetfield referred to Metallica's sound as "[[power metal]]". In late 1982, Ulrich and Hetfield attended a show at the [[West Hollywood]] nightclub [[Whisky a Go Go]], which featured bassist [[Cliff Burton]] in the band [[Trauma (American band)|Trauma]]. The two were "blown away" by Burton's use of a [[wah-wah pedal]] and asked him to join Metallica. Hetfield and Mustaine wanted McGovney to leave because they thought he "didn't contribute anything, he just followed."<ref name="Timeline 2"/> Although Burton initially declined the offer, by the end of the year, he had accepted on the condition that the band move to [[El Cerrito, California|El Cerrito]] in the [[San Francisco Bay Area]].<ref name="Timeline 2"/> Metallica's first live performance with Burton was at the nightclub The Stone in March 1983, and the first recording to feature Burton was the ''Megaforce'' demo (1983).<ref name="Timeline 2">{{cite web|title=Metallica Timeline Fall 1982 – April&nbsp;16, 1983|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=3|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081227033807/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=3|publisher=MTV|archive-date=December 27, 2008|access-date=May 31, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Metallica was ready to record their debut album, but when Metal Blade was unable to cover the cost, they began looking for other options. Concert promoter [[Jon Zazula|Jonathan "Jonny Z" Zazula]], who had heard the demo ''No Life 'til Leather'' (1982), offered to broker a record deal between Metallica and [[New York City]]–based record labels. After those record labels showed no interest, Zazula borrowed enough money to cover the recording budget and signed Metallica to his own label, [[Megaforce Records]].<ref name="Pillsbury 2006 2">{{Harvnb|Pillsbury|2006|p=2}}</ref>

[[File:Priest feast 22 - megadeth 05.jpg|thumb|Dave Mustaine (pictured in 2009) went on to found rival band Megadeth after being fired from the band in 1983.]]
In May 1983, Metallica traveled to [[Rochester, New York]], to record its debut album, ''Metal Up Your Ass'', which was produced by Paul Curcio.<ref>{{Harvnb|Christe|2003|p=86}}</ref> The other members decided to eject Mustaine from the band because of his drug and alcohol abuse and violent behavior just before the recording sessions on April 11, 1983.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Cecolini|first=Vinny|date=November 1998|title=Foreclosure of a Team|journal=Metal Hammer}}</ref> [[Exodus (band)|Exodus]] guitarist [[Kirk Hammett]] replaced Mustaine the same afternoon.<ref name="Pillsbury 2006 2"/> Metallica's first live performance with Hammett was on April 16, 1983, at a nightclub in [[Dover, New Jersey]], called The Showplace;<ref name="Timeline 2"/> the support act was Anthrax's original lineup, which included [[Dan Lilker]] and [[Neil Turbin]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallipromo.com/an.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002055209/http://www.metallipromo.com/an.html|archive-date=October 2, 2013|title=Anthrax;|publisher=Metallipromo.com|date=December 24, 2010|access-date=March 18, 2013}}</ref> This was the first time the two bands performed live together.<ref name="Timeline 2"/>

[[File:Kirk2010.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|left|Kirk Hammett (pictured in 2010) replaced Mustaine in 1983, and has been with the band ever since.]]
Mustaine, who went on to form [[Megadeth]], has expressed his dislike for Hammett in interviews, saying Hammett "stole" his job.<ref>{{cite news|title=Dave Mustaine: James Hetfield Is Jealous of Me|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=27141|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090130062244/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=27141|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=September 21, 2004|archive-date=January 30, 2009|access-date=May 31, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> Mustaine was "pissed off" because he believes Hammett became popular by playing guitar leads that Mustaine had actually written.<ref>{{cite web|title=Interview: Dave Mustaine news|url=http://www.askmen.com/celebs/interview_100/149b_dave_mustaine_interview.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081202113421/http://www.askmen.com/celebs/interview_100/149b_dave_mustaine_interview.html|work=AskMen.com|publisher=IGN Entertainment|archive-date=December 2, 2008|access-date=May 31, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> In a 1985 interview with ''[[Metal Forces]]'', Mustaine said, "It's real funny how Kirk Hammett ripped off every lead break I'd played on that ''No Life 'til Leather'' tape and got voted No.&nbsp;1 guitarist in your magazine."<ref name="Metal Forces">{{cite web|last=Doe|first=Bernard|title=Megadeth — Love it to Death|work=[[Metal Forces]]|url=http://www.metalforcesmagazine.com/site/feature-megadeth-mf12/|access-date=June 16, 2012|archive-date=October 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002123451/http://www.metalforcesmagazine.com/site/feature-megadeth-mf12/|url-status=live}}</ref> On Megadeth's debut album, ''[[Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!]]'' (1985), Mustaine included the song "Mechanix", which Metallica had previously reworked and retitled "The Four Horsemen" on ''Kill 'Em All''. Mustaine said he did this to "straighten Metallica up" because Metallica referred to Mustaine as a drunk and said he could not play guitar.<ref name="Metal Forces"/>

Because of conflicts with its record label and the distributors' refusal to release an album titled ''Metal Up Your Ass'', the album was renamed ''[[Kill 'Em All]]''. It was released on Megaforce Records in the U.S. and on [[Music for Nations]] in Europe, and peaked at number 155 on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200 in 1986.<ref name="Whitburn">[[Joel Whitburn|Whitburn, Joel]]. ''Top Pop Albums'' (2001): 578</ref>{{efn|The 1988 re-issue of ''Kill 'Em All'' on Elektra Records also charted on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200, peaking at number 120.<ref name="Whitburn"/>}} Although the album was not initially a financial success, it earned Metallica a growing fan base in the underground metal scene.<ref>{{cite news|last=Lepage|first=Mark|date=October 31, 2009|url=http://www2.canada.com/ottawacitizen/story.html?id=9a47a506-f3a6-44e2-9fd3-443a42042b63|title=Metal metamorphosis|newspaper=[[Ottawa Citizen]]|access-date=June 12, 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228131949/http://www2.canada.com/ottawacitizen/story.html?id=9a47a506-f3a6-44e2-9fd3-443a42042b63|archive-date=December 28, 2014}}</ref> To support the release, Metallica embarked on the ''Kill 'Em All for One'' tour with [[Raven (band)|Raven]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica Timeline May&nbsp;10–27, 1983 – July 27 – September 3, 1983|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=4|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113230418/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=4|publisher=MTV|archive-date=January 13, 2009|access-date=May 30, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> In February 1984, Metallica supported [[Venom (band)|Venom]] on the Seven Dates of Hell tour, during which the bands performed in front of 7,000 people at the Aardschok Festival in [[Zwolle]], Netherlands.<ref name="Timeline 3">{{cite web|title=Metallica Timeline October–December 1983 – August 1984|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=5|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115011308/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=5|publisher=MTV|archive-date=January 15, 2009|access-date=May 30, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===1984–1986: ''Ride the Lightning'', ''Master of Puppets'', and Burton's death===
[[File:Metallica 1983 press photo (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright=0.75|[[Cliff Burton]] (pictured in 1983) replaced Ron McGovney as the bassist in 1982 and played with the band until his death in 1986.]]
Metallica recorded its second studio album, ''[[Ride the Lightning]]'', at [[Sweet Silence Studios]] in [[Copenhagen]], Denmark, from February to March 1984. It was released in August 1984 and reached number 100 on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200.<ref name="Charts"/> A French printing press mistakenly printed green covers for the album, which are now considered collectors' items. Mustaine received writing co-credit for "Ride the Lightning" and "The Call of Ktulu".<ref name="Timeline 3"/>

[[Elektra Records]] [[A&R]] director Michael Alago and co-founder of Q-Prime Management Cliff Burnstein attended a Metallica concert in September 1984; they were impressed with the performance, signed Metallica to Elektra and made the band a client of Q-Prime Management.<ref name="Timeline 4">{{cite web|title=Metallica Timeline Fall, 1984 – March&nbsp;27, 1986|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=6|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114055412/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=6|publisher=MTV|archive-date=January 14, 2009|access-date=June 2, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> Metallica's growing success was such that the band's British label, Music for Nations, released "[[Creeping Death]]" as a limited-edition single, which sold 40,000 copies as an import in the U.S. Two of the three songs on the record – cover versions of Diamond Head's "[[Am I Evil?]]" and [[Blitzkrieg (metal band)|Blitzkrieg]]'s "Blitzkrieg" – appeared on the 1988 Elektra reissue of ''Kill 'Em All''.<ref>{{Harvnb|Christe|2003|p=130}}</ref> Metallica embarked on its first major European tour with [[Tank (band)|Tank]] to an average crowd of 1,300. Returning to the U.S., it embarked on a co-headlining tour with [[W.A.S.P. (band)|W.A.S.P.]] and support from [[Armored Saint]]. Metallica played its largest show at the [[Monsters of Rock]] festival at [[Donington Park motorsport circuit#Music festivals|Donington Park]], England, on August 17, 1985, with [[Bon Jovi]] and [[Ratt]], playing to 70,000 people. At a show in [[Oakland, California]], at the [[Day on the Green]] festival, the band played to a crowd of 60,000.<ref name="Timeline 4"/>

Metallica's third studio album, ''[[Master of Puppets]]'', was recorded at [[Sweet Silence Studios]] from September to December 1985 and released in March 1986. The album reached number 29 on the [[Billboard 200|''Billboard''&nbsp;200]] and spent 72 weeks on the chart.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Discography – Metallica|url={{BillboardURLbyName|artist=metallica|chart=all}} |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/5hEnwRGkd?url=http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/discography/index.jsp?aid%3D11546%26cr%3Dalbum%26or%3DASCENDING%26sf%3Dlength%26pid%3D5199%26kw%3DMaster%2Bof%2BPuppets |magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] |archive-date=June 2, 2009 |access-date=June 2, 2009 |url-status=dead }}</ref> It was the band's first album to be certified [[Music recording sales certification#RIAA certification|Gold]] on November 4, 1986, and was certified six times Platinum in 2003.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?artist=%22Master+of+Puppets%22|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130728000332/http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?artist=%22Master+of+Puppets%22|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 28, 2013|title=Gold & Platinum|publisher=[[RIAA]]|access-date=May 26, 2010}}</ref> Steve Huey of [[AllMusic]] considered the album "the band's greatest achievement".<ref>{{cite web|first=Steve|last=Huey|title=Metallica: Master of Puppets|url={{AllMusic|class=album|id=master-of-puppets-mw0000667490|pure_url=yes}} |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/5hEoIdeum?url=http://allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10%3Anl08b5t4tsqe |website=Allmusic |archive-date=June 2, 2009 |access-date=June 2, 2009 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Following the release of the album, Metallica supported [[Ozzy Osbourne]] on a U.S. tour.<ref name="Timeline 4"/> Hetfield broke his wrist while skateboarding; he continued with the tour, performing vocals, with guitar technician [[John Marshall (guitarist)|John Marshall]] playing rhythm guitar.<ref name="Timeline 5"/>

On September 27, 1986, during the European leg of Metallica's [[Damage, Inc. Tour]], members drew cards to determine which bunks on the tour bus they would sleep in. Burton won and chose to sleep in Hammett's bunk. At around sunrise near [[Dörarp]], Sweden, the bus driver lost control and skidded, which caused the bus to overturn several times. Ulrich, Hammett and Hetfield sustained no serious injuries; however, Burton was pinned under the bus and died. Hetfield said:
<blockquote>I saw the bus lying right on him. I saw his legs sticking out. I freaked. The bus driver, I recall, was trying to yank the blanket out from under him to use for other people. I just went, "Don't fucking do that!" I already wanted to kill the [bus driver]. I don't know if he was drunk or if he hit some ice. All I knew was, he was driving and Cliff wasn't alive anymore.<ref name="Timeline 5">{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline June&nbsp;26, 1986 – September 27, 1986|publisher=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=7|access-date=November 16, 2007|archive-date=December 17, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071217130128/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=7|url-status=dead}}</ref></blockquote>

===1986–1994: Newsted joins, ''...And Justice for All'' and ''Metallica''===
[[File: 13-06-09 RaR Newsted 13.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|Jason Newsted (pictured in 2013) joined Metallica soon after Cliff Burton's death in 1986.]]
Burton's death left Metallica's future in doubt. The three remaining members decided Burton would want them to carry on, and with the Burton family's blessings, the band sought a replacement.<ref name="Timeline 6">{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline October 1986 – March 1987|work=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=8|access-date=November 30, 2007|archive-date=April 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090411195927/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=8|url-status=dead}}</ref> Roughly 40 people – including Hammett's childhood friend, [[Les Claypool]] of [[Primus (band)|Primus]]; [[Troy Gregory]] of [[Prong (band)|Prong]]; and [[Jason Newsted]], formerly of [[Flotsam and Jetsam (band)|Flotsam and Jetsam]] – auditioned for the band to fill Burton's spot. Newsted learned Metallica's entire setlist; after the audition, Metallica invited him to Tommy's Joynt in San Francisco. Hetfield, Ulrich and Hammett decided on Newsted as Burton's replacement; his first live performance with Metallica was at the Country Club in [[Reseda, California]]. The members initiated Newsted by tricking him into eating a ball of [[wasabi]].<ref name="Timeline 6"/> The band finished its tour in February 1987.

After Newsted joined Metallica, the band left their El Cerrito practice space – a suburban house formerly rented by sound engineer [[Mark Whitaker (music producer)|Mark Whitaker]] and dubbed "the Metalli-mansion" – and relocated to the adjacent cities of [[Berkeley, California|Berkeley]] and [[Albany, California|Albany]] before eventually settling in the Marin County city of [[San Rafael, California|San Rafael]], north of San Francisco.<ref>{{cite book|last=Doughton|first=K.J.|title=Metallica Unbound|publisher=[[Grand Central Publishing]]|date=August 1, 1993|isbn=978-0-446-39486-4}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=McIver|first=Joel|title=Justice for All: The Truth About Metallica|url=https://archive.org/details/justiceforalltru0000mciv_h8q4|url-access=registration|publisher=[[Omnibus Press]]|year=2004|isbn=978-1-84772-797-8|page=[https://archive.org/details/justiceforalltru0000mciv_h8q4/page/85 85]}}</ref> In March 1987, Hetfield again broke his wrist while skateboarding, forcing the band to cancel an appearance on ''[[Saturday Night Live]]''. In August 1987, an all-covers [[extended play]] (EP), titled ''[[The $5.98 E.P. - Garage Days Re-Revisited]]'', was released. The EP was recorded in an effort to use the band's newly constructed recording studio, test Newsted's talents, and to relieve grief and stress following the death of Burton. A video titled ''[[Cliff 'Em All]]'' commemorating Burton's three years in Metallica was released in 1987; the video included bass solos, home videos and pictures.<ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline August&nbsp;21, 1987 – December 4, 1987|publisher=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=9|access-date=December 1, 2007|archive-date=April 11, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090411200831/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=9|url-status=dead}}</ref>

[[File:Metallica Damaged Justice Tour.jpg|thumb|Metallica performing during its Damaged Justice Tour in 1988]]
Metallica's first studio album since Burton's death, ''[[...And Justice for All (album)|...And Justice for All]]'', was recorded from January to May 1988 and released in September. The album was a commercial success, reaching number 6 on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200, and was the band's first album to enter the top 10.<ref name="Charts">{{cite web|title=Metallica Chart Positions|website=Allmusic|url={{AllMusic|class=artist|id=metallica-mn0000446509|tab=awards|pure_url=yes}} |access-date=December 3, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100923150541/http://www.cmc.dk/ |archive-date=September 23, 2010 }}</ref> The album was certified Platinum nine weeks after its release.<ref>{{Harvnb|Christe|2003|p=196}}</ref> There were complaints about the production, however; Steve Huey of AllMusic said Ulrich's drums were clicking more than thudding, and the guitars "buzz thinly".<ref>{{cite web|last=Huey|first=Steve|url={{AllMusic|class=album|id=and-justice-for-all-mw0000196917|pure_url=yes}} |title=Metallica: ...And Justice for All |access-date=December 23, 2006 |website=Allmusic |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100923150541/http://www.cmc.dk/ |archive-date=September 23, 2010 }}</ref> The lack of audible bass in the album also drew widespread criticism.<ref>{{cite magazine | url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/metallicas-and-justice-for-all-album-what-happened-to-bass-715079/ | title=Metallica's 'And Justice for All': What Happened to the Bass? | magazine=[[Rolling Stone]] | date=August 25, 2018 }}</ref> To promote the album, Metallica embarked on a tour called [[Damaged Justice]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Damaged Justice World Tour|publisher=Metallica.com|url=http://www.metallicaworld.co.uk/metallica_tour_dates_justice_world.htm|access-date=December 9, 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071210010111/http://www.metallicaworld.co.uk/metallica_tour_dates_justice_world.htm|archive-date=December 10, 2007}}</ref>

In 1989, Metallica received its first [[Grammy Award]] nomination for ''...And Justice for All'' in the new [[Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance Vocal or Instrumental|Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance Vocal or Instrument]] category. Metallica was the favorite to win, but the award was given to [[Jethro Tull (band)|Jethro Tull]] for the album ''[[Crest of a Knave]]''.<ref name="Rockin' on an Island"/> The award was controversial with fans and the press; Metallica was standing off-stage waiting to receive the award after performing the song "[[One (Metallica song)|One]]". Jethro Tull had been advised by its manager not to attend the ceremony because he was expecting Metallica to win.<ref name="Rockin' on an Island">"Rockin' on an Island". ''Kerrang!'' '''258'''. September 30, 1989.</ref> The award was named in ''[[Entertainment Weekly]]''{{'s}} "Grammy's 10 Biggest Upsets" list.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Endelman|first=Michael|title=Grammy's 10 Biggest Upsets|magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]]|url=https://www.ew.com/ew/gallery/0,,1567466_20010834_20010795,00.html?|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071216011728/http://www.ew.com/ew/gallery/0%2C%2C1567466_20010834_20010795%2C00.html|archive-date=December 16, 2007|access-date=December 3, 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Following the release of ''...And Justice for All'', Metallica released its debut music video for the song "One", which the band performed in an abandoned warehouse. The footage was remixed with the film ''[[Johnny Got His Gun (film)|Johnny Got His Gun]]''. Rather than organize an ongoing licensing deal, Metallica purchased the rights to the film. The remixed video was submitted to MTV with an alternative, performance-only version that was held back in case MTV banned the remixed version. MTV accepted the remixed version; the video was viewers' first exposure to Metallica. In 1999, it was voted number 38 in MTV's "Top 100 Videos of All Time" countdown<ref>{{cite web|title=MTV: 100 Greatest Music Videos Ever Made|publisher=Rockonthenet.com|url=http://www.rockonthenet.com/archive/1999/mtv100.htm|access-date=December 8, 2007|archive-date=August 10, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160810083707/http://www.rockonthenet.com/archive/1999/mtv100.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> and was featured on the network's 25th-anniversary edition of ''ADD Video'', which showcased the most popular videos on MTV in the last 25 years.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/ontv/dyn/add_video/series.jhtml#/ontv/dyn/add_video/series.jhtml|title=A.D.D. Videos: 25 Years of MTV|publisher=MTV|access-date=March 12, 2006|archive-date=April 16, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080416130946/http://www.mtv.com/ontv/dyn/add_video/series.jhtml#/ontv/dyn/add_video/series.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In October 1990, Metallica entered [[17 Hertz Studio|One on One Recording's]] studio in North Hollywood to record its next album. [[Bob Rock]], who had worked with [[Aerosmith]], [[The Cult]], [[Bon Jovi]] and [[Mötley Crüe]], was hired as the producer. ''[[Metallica (album)|Metallica]]'' – also known as ''The Black Album'' – was remixed three times, cost US$1&nbsp;million,<ref name="Timeline 8">{{cite web |title=Metallica timeline February 1990 – August&nbsp;13, 1991 |work=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=11 |access-date=December 2, 2007 |archive-date=October 25, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111025054818/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=11 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and ended Hammett and Ulrich's marriages.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Drugs, divorce and incessant drum takes: Metallica on making metal's biggest ever album |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/music/drugs-divorce-and-incessant-drum-takes-metallica-on-making-metal-s-biggest-ever-album-1.4666030 |access-date=June 4, 2024 |newspaper=The Irish Times |language=en |archive-date=September 16, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916132616/https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/music/drugs-divorce-and-incessant-drum-takes-metallica-on-making-metal-s-biggest-ever-album-1.4666030 |url-status=live }}</ref> Although the release was delayed until 1991, ''Metallica'' debuted at number one in 10 countries, selling 650,000 units in the U.S. during its first week.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Garcia|first=Guy|title=Heavy Metal Goes Platinum|magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]]|date=October 14, 1991|url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,974031,00.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070428122620/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,974031,00.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 28, 2007|access-date=December 12, 2007}}</ref> The album marked a change in Metallica's musical style and brought the band mainstream attention; it has been certified 16 times Platinum in the U.S., which makes it the 25th-best-selling album in the country.<ref name="Top 100 Albums">{{cite web|title=Top 100 Albums|publisher=RIAA.com|url=https://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?table=tblTop100|access-date=December 2, 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070701162536/http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?table=tblTop100|archive-date=July 1, 2007}}</ref> The making of ''Metallica'' and the following tour was documented in ''[[A Year and a Half in the Life of Metallica]]''. The tour in support of the album, called the [[Wherever We May Roam Tour]], lasted 14 months and included dates in the U.S., Japan and the U.K.<ref name="Timeline 8" /> In September 1991, 1.6&nbsp;million rock music fans converged in [[Moscow]] to enjoy the first open-air rock concert to be held in the [[Soviet Union]]; it was part of the [[Monsters of Rock]] series.<ref>{{cite news |title=List of the most crowded music concerts in history |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/list-of-the-most-crowded-music-concerts-in-history/articleshow/49702777.cms?from=mdr |work=The Economic Times |date=November 8, 2015 |access-date=May 19, 2020 |archive-date=November 11, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111231049/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/list-of-the-most-crowded-music-concerts-in-history/articleshow/49702777.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}</ref> In April 1992, Metallica appeared at [[The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert]] and performed a three-song set.<ref name="Purvis" /> Hetfield later performed "[[Stone Cold Crazy]]" with the remaining members of [[Queen (band)|Queen]] and [[Tony Iommi]].<ref name="Purvis">Georg Purvis (2007). "Queen: Complete Works". p. 390. Reynolds & Hearn</ref>

On August 8, 1992, during the co-headlining [[Guns N' Roses/Metallica Stadium Tour]] at the [[Olympic Stadium (Montreal)|Olympic Stadium]] in [[Montreal]], Hetfield suffered second- and [[third degree burns|third-degree burns]] to his arms, face, hands and legs. There had been some confusion with the new pyrotechnics setup, which resulted in Hetfield walking into a {{convert|12|ft|m|adj=on}} flame during "Fade to Black".<ref>{{cite AV media|title=Metallica, FULL VH1 Behind The Music episode|url=https://www.bitchute.com/video/jNn2HkDRmeoH/|language=en|access-date=August 6, 2021|archive-date=August 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806042445/https://www.bitchute.com/video/jNn2HkDRmeoH/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Newsted said Hetfield's skin was "bubbling like on ''[[The Toxic Avenger (1984 film)|The Toxic Avenger]]''".<ref name="Timeline 9"/> Metallica returned to the stage 17 days later with guitar technician and [[Metal Church]] member [[John Marshall (guitarist)|John Marshall]] replacing Hetfield on guitar for the remainder of the tour, although Hetfield was able to sing. Later in 1993, Metallica went on the Nowhere Else to Roam Tour, playing five shows in [[Mexico City]]. ''[[Live Shit: Binge & Purge]]'', the band's first box set, was released in November 1993. The collection contains three live CDs, three home videos, and a book filled with riders and letters.<ref name="Timeline 9">{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline August&nbsp;9, 1992 – November 23, 1993|publisher=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=12|access-date=December 1, 2007|archive-date=May 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130502200916/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=12|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===1994–2001: ''Load'', ''Reload'', Napster controversy and Newsted's departure===
[[File:James Hetfield - Cardiff 1996.jpg|thumb|left|James Hetfield performing with the band during its tour for ''Load'' in 1996]]
After almost three years of touring to promote ''Metallica'', including a headlining performance at [[Woodstock '94]], Metallica returned to the studio to write and record its sixth studio album. The band went on a brief hiatus in the summer of 1995 and played a short tour, Escape from the Studio '95, which comprised three outdoor shows, including a headline show at [[Donington Park motorsports circuit|Donington Park]] supported by [[Slayer]], [[Skid Row (American band)|Skid Row]], [[Slash's Snakepit]], [[Therapy?]] and [[Corrosion of Conformity]]. The band spent about a year writing and recording new songs, resulting in the release of ''[[Load (album)|Load]]'' in 1996. ''Load'' debuted at number one on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200 and [[ARIA Charts]]; it was the band's second number one album.<ref name="Charts"/> The cover art, ''Blood and Semen III'', was created by [[Andres Serrano]], who pressed a mixture of his own semen and blood between sheets of plexiglass.<ref name="Timeline 10">{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline December 1995 – June 27, 1996|publisher=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=14|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=April 13, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130413025134/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=14|url-status=dead}}</ref> The release saw another change in the band's musical direction and a new image, which included a revamped logo and the band members having their hair cut. While ''Load'' was a commercial success, the band's change in style had polarized their fanbase.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Brannigan |first1=Paul |title="Metal needs a good f**king kick up the ass": the story of Metallica's Load |url=https://www.loudersound.com/features/metallica-load-story-behind-the-album |website=www.loudersound.com |date=August 14, 2016 |access-date=June 8, 2024 |archive-date=July 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230722140503/https://www.loudersound.com/features/metallica-load-story-behind-the-album |url-status=live }}</ref> Metallica headlined the alternative rock festival [[Lollapalooza]] festival in mid-1996.<ref name="Playboy"/><ref name="Load review"/>

During early production of the album, the band had recorded enough material to fill a double album. It was decided that half of the songs were to be released; the band would continue to work on the remaining songs and release them the following year. This resulted in follow-up album, titled ''[[Reload (Metallica album)|Reload]]''. The cover art was again created by Serrano, this time using a mixture of blood and urine.<ref name="Timeline 10"/> ''Reload'', too, debuted at number one on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200 and reached number two on the Top Canadian Album chart.<ref name="Charts"/> Hetfield said in the 2004 documentary film ''[[Metallica: Some Kind of Monster]]'' that the band initially thought some of the songs on these albums were of average quality; these were "polished and reworked" until judged releasable.<ref name="Some Kind of Monster film"/> To promote ''Reload'', Metallica performed "[[Fuel (Metallica song)|Fuel]]" and "[[The Memory Remains]]" with [[Marianne Faithfull]] on [[NBC]]'s ''Saturday Night Live'' in December 1997.<ref name="Timeline 11">{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline November&nbsp;18, 1997 – December 8, 1998|publisher=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=16|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=May 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130502233850/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=16|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In 1998, Metallica compiled a double album of cover songs, titled ''[[Garage Inc.]]'' The first disc contained newly recorded covers of songs by [[Diamond Head (English band)|Diamond Head]], [[Killing Joke]], the [[Misfits (band)|Misfits]], [[Thin Lizzy]], [[Mercyful Fate]], [[Black Sabbath]] and others, and the second disc featured the original version of ''The $5.98 E.P. – Garage Days Re-Revisited'', which had become a scarce collectors' item. The album entered the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200 at number two.<ref name="Timeline 11"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline February&nbsp;24, 1999 – February 23, 2000|work=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=17|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=May 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130502222018/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=17|url-status=dead}}</ref>

On April 21 and 22, 1999, Metallica recorded two performances with the [[San Francisco Symphony]], which was conducted by [[Michael Kamen]], who had previously worked with producer Rock on "[[Nothing Else Matters]]". Kamen approached Metallica in 1991 with the idea of pairing the band's music with a symphony orchestra. Kamen and his staff of over 100 composed additional orchestral material for Metallica songs. Metallica wrote two new Kamen-scored songs for the event: "[[No Leaf Clover]]" and "-Human". The audio recording and concert footage were released in 1999 as the album and concert film ''[[S&M (album)|S&M]]''. It entered the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200 at number two and the Australian ARIA charts and Top Internet Albums chart at number one.<ref name="Charts"/>

In 2000, Metallica discovered that a demo of its song "[[I Disappear]]", which was supposed to be released in combination with the [[Mission: Impossible II (soundtrack)|''Mission: Impossible II'' soundtrack]], was receiving radio airplay. Tracing the source of the leak, the band found the file on the [[Napster]] [[peer-to-peer]] file-sharing network and also found that the band's entire catalogue was freely available.<ref name="Testimony">{{cite web|title=Testimony of Mr. Lars Ulrich|publisher=[[United States Senate Committee on the Judiciary]]|date=July 11, 2000|url=http://judiciary.senate.gov/testimony.cfm?id=195&wit_id=252|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071129061341/http://judiciary.senate.gov/testimony.cfm?id=195&wit_id=252|archive-date=November 29, 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> Metallica [[Metallica v. Napster, Inc.|filed a lawsuit]] at the [[U.S. District Court]], [[Central District of California]], alleging that Napster violated three areas of the law: [[copyright infringement]], unlawful use of digital audio interface device and the [[Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act]] (RICO).<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Jones|first=Christopher|title=Metallica Rips Napster|magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]|date=April 13, 2000|url=https://www.wired.com/politics/law/news/2000/04/35670|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080516221654/http://www.wired.com/politics/law/news/2000/04/35670|archive-date=May 16, 2008|access-date=December 5, 2007}}</ref>

[[File:Lars Ulrich The Rock Copenhagen.JPG|thumb|upright=0.8|left|Lars Ulrich led the case against Napster for Metallica.]]
Ulrich provided a statement to the [[Senate Judiciary Committee]] regarding copyright infringement on July 11, 2000.<ref name="Testimony"/> [[Federal Judge]] [[Marilyn Hall Patel]] ordered the site to place a [[Content-control software|filter]] on the program within 72 hours or be shut down.<ref>{{cite news|last=Pellegrini|first=Frank|title=The End of the Line for Royalties?|newspaper=Time|url=http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,101597,00.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010307122210/http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,101597,00.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 7, 2001|date=March 6, 2001|access-date=December 12, 2007}}</ref> A settlement between Metallica and Napster was reached when German media conglomerate [[Bertelsmann]] BMG showed interest in purchasing the rights to Napster for $94&nbsp;million. Under the terms of settlement, Napster agreed to block users who shared music by artists who do not want their music shared.<ref>{{cite news|title=Napster settles suits|publisher=CNN|date=July 21, 2001|url=https://money.cnn.com/2001/07/12/news/napster/|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=September 23, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090923025811/http://money.cnn.com/2001/07/12/news/napster/|url-status=live}}</ref> On June 3, 2002, Napster filed for [[Chapter 11]] protection under U.S. bankruptcy laws. On September 3, 2002, an American bankruptcy judge blocked the sale of Napster to Bertelsmann and forced Napster to liquidate its assets, according to [[Chapter 7, Title 11, United States Code|Chapter 7]] of the U.S. bankruptcy laws.<ref>{{cite news|last=Evangelista|first=Benny|title=Napster runs out of lives – judge rules against sale|date=September 4, 2002|work=San Francisco Chronicle|url=http://www.sfgate.com/business/article/Napster-runs-out-of-lives-judge-rules-against-2774278.php|access-date=January 2, 2008|archive-date=March 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309222141/https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/Napster-runs-out-of-lives-judge-rules-against-2774278.php|url-status=live}}</ref>

At the [[2000 MTV Video Music Awards]], Ulrich appeared with host [[Marlon Wayans]] in a skit that criticized the idea of using Napster to share music. Wayans played a college student listening to Metallica's "I Disappear". Ulrich walked in and asked for an explanation, and he responded to Wayans' excuse that using Napster was just "sharing" by saying that Wayans' idea of sharing was "borrowing things that were not yours without asking." He called in the Metallica road crew, who proceeded to confiscate all of Wayans' belongings, leaving him almost naked in an empty room. Napster creator [[Shawn Fanning]] responded later in the ceremony by presenting an award wearing a Metallica shirt that read: "I borrowed this shirt from a friend. Maybe, if I like it, I'll buy one of my own." Ulrich was later booed on stage at the award show when he introduced the final musical act, [[Blink-182]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nyrock.com/features/2000/vma00.asp|title=MTV's Video Music Awards 2000: If only I have a brain|publisher=NY Rock|date=September 7, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111016194740/http://nyrock.com/features/2000/vma00.asp|archive-date=October 16, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/story?id=115952&page=1|title=Eminem and 'N Sync Big VMA Winners|work=ABC News|access-date=April 21, 2020|archive-date=January 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122171541/https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/story?id=115952&page=1|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:JunoAwards2009-BobRock (cropped) (cropped).jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.8|Longtime producer Bob Rock recorded bass for ''St. Anger'' following Jason Newsted's departure in 2001.]]
Newsted left Metallica on January 17, 2001, just as plans were being made to enter the recording studio. He said he left the band for "private and personal reasons, and the physical damage I have done to myself over the years while playing the music that I love."<ref>{{cite web|last=Basham|first=David|title=Bassist Jason Newsted Leaves Metallica|publisher=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1438016/20010117/metallica.jhtml|date=January 17, 2001|access-date=December 3, 2007|archive-date=July 26, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080726125030/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1438016/20010117/metallica.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref> During a ''[[Playboy]]'' interview with Metallica, Newsted said he wanted to release an album with his [[side project]], [[Echobrain]]. Hetfield was opposed to the idea and said, "When someone does a side project, it takes away from the strength of Metallica" and that a side project is "like cheating on your wife in a way."<ref name="Playboy"/> Newsted said Hetfield had recorded vocals for a song used in the film ''[[South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut]]'', and appeared on two [[Corrosion of Conformity]] albums. Hetfield replied: "My name isn't on those records. And I'm not out trying to sell them" and raised questions such as, "Where would it end? Does he start touring with it? Does he sell shirts? Is it his band?"<ref name="Playboy">{{cite web|title=The Playboy Interview – Metallica|work=[[Playboy]]|url=http://www.playboy.com/articles/metallica-interview/index.html|access-date=December 3, 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090404205425/http://www.playboy.com/articles/metallica-interview/index.html|archive-date=April 4, 2009}}</ref>

===2001–2006: ''Some Kind of Monster'', ''St. Anger'', and Trujillo joins===
In April 2001, filmmakers [[Joe Berlinger]] and [[Bruce Sinofsky]] began following Metallica to document the recording process of the band's next studio album. Over two years they recorded more than 1,000 hours of footage. On July 19, 2001, before preparations to enter the recording studio, Hetfield entered [[Drug rehabilitation|rehab]] to treat his "alcoholism and other addictions". All recording plans were put on hold and the band's future was in doubt.<ref name="Timeline 12">{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline April 2001 – December&nbsp;4, 2001|publisher=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=21|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=May 23, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100523122240/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=21|url-status=dead}}</ref> Hetfield left rehab on December 4, 2001,<ref name="Timeline 12"/> and the band returned to the recording studio on April 12, 2002. Hetfield was required to limit his work to four hours a day between noon and 4&nbsp;pm, and to spend the rest of his time with his family.<ref name="Some Kind of Monster film"/> The footage recorded by Berlinger and Sinofsky was compiled into the documentary ''[[Metallica: Some Kind of Monster]]'', which premiered at the [[Sundance Film Festival]] in January 2004. In the documentary, Newsted said his former bandmates' decision to hire a therapist to help solve their problems which he felt they could have solved on their own was "really fucking lame and weak".<ref name="Some Kind of Monster film">''Some Kind of Monster'' feature film, Metallica, January 2004, Paramount Pictures.</ref>

[[File:Robert Trujillo live in London 2008-09-15.jpg|thumb|right|upright=0.8|Robert Trujillo joined Metallica in 2003 after the recording of ''[[St. Anger]]''.]]
In June 2003, Metallica's eighth studio album, ''[[St. Anger]]'', debuted at number one on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200, and drew mixed reactions from critics. Ulrich's "steely" sounding snare drum and the absence of guitar solos received particular criticism.<ref name="Metacritic">{{cite web|title=''St. Anger'' by Metallica|website=[[Metacritic]]|url=https://www.metacritic.com/music/st-anger|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=September 12, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100912164851/http://www.metacritic.com/music/st-anger|url-status=live}}</ref> Kevin Forest Moreau of ''Shakingthrough.net'' said, "the guitars stumble in a monotone of mid-level, processed rattle; the drums don't propel as much as struggle to disguise an all-too-turgid pace; and the rage is both unfocused and leavened with too much narcissistic navel-gazing".<ref>{{cite web|last=Moreau|first=Kevin|title=Rattle and Ho-Hum|publisher=Shakingthrough.net|date=June 23, 2003|url=http://www.shakingthrough.net/music/reviews/2003/metallica_st_anger_2003.html|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=August 29, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080829005340/http://www.shakingthrough.net/music/reviews/2003/metallica_st_anger_2003.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Brent DiCrescenzo of ''[[Pitchfork (website)|Pitchfork]]'' described it as "an utter mess".<ref>{{cite web|last=DiCrescenzo|first=Brent|title=Metallica St. Anger|publisher=Pitchfork Media|date=June 16, 2003|url=https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/5250-st-anger/|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=March 18, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090318035026/http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/5250-st-anger/|url-status=live}}</ref> However, ''[[Blender (magazine)|Blender]]'' magazine called it the "grimiest and grimmest of the band's Bob Rock productions", and ''[[New York Magazine]]'' called it "utterly raw and rocking".<ref name="St Anger by Metallica">{{cite web|title=''St. Anger'' by Metallica|publisher=Metacritic.com|url=https://www.metacritic.com/music/st-anger|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=September 12, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100912164851/http://www.metacritic.com/music/st-anger|url-status=live}}</ref> The title track, "[[St. Anger (song)|St. Anger]]", won the [[Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance]] in 2004; it was used as the official theme song for [[WWE]]'s ''[[SummerSlam (2003)|SummerSlam 2003]]''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Grammy Award winners – Metallica|publisher=Grammy.com|url=http://www.grammy.com/GRAMMY_Awards/Winners/Results.aspx?title=&winner=Metallica&year=0&genreID=0&hp=1|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/5mqfKCOyt?url=http://www.grammy.com/GRAMMY_Awards/Winners/Results.aspx?title=|archive-date=January 17, 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref>

For the duration of ''St. Anger''{{'}}s recording period, producer Bob Rock played bass on the album and in several live shows at which Metallica performed during that time.<ref name="Some Kind of Monster film"/> Once the record was completed, the band started to hold auditions for Newsted's permanent replacement. Bassists [[Pepper Keenan]], [[Jeordie White]], [[Scott Reeder (bassist)|Scott Reeder]], [[Eric Avery]], [[Danny Lohner]], and [[Chris Wyse]]{{mdash}}among others{{mdash}}auditioned for the role. After three months of auditions, [[Robert Trujillo]], formerly of [[Suicidal Tendencies]] and Ozzy Osbourne's band, was chosen as the new bassist.<ref name="Some Kind of Monster film"/> Newsted, who had joined Canadian thrash metal band [[Voivod (band)|Voivod]] by that time, was Trujillo's replacement in Osbourne's band during the 2003 [[Ozzfest]] tour, which included Voivod.<ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica timeline January&nbsp;3, 2002 – March 19, 2003|publisher=MTV|url=http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=22|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=May 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130502231445/http://www.mtv.com/onair/icon/metallica/timeline/?id=22|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Before the band's set at the 2004 [[Download Festival]], Ulrich was rushed to the hospital after having an anxiety seizure and was unable to perform.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fri.dk/personlig-udvikling/lars-ulrich-fra-total-ass-til-familiefar|title=Lars Ulrich – fra 'total ass' til familiefar|publisher=FRI.DK|work=Berlingske Media|date=June 27, 2009|author=Tonie Yde Mørch|access-date=June 7, 2011|archive-date=November 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121124063718/http://www.fri.dk/personlig-udvikling/lars-ulrich-fra-total-ass-til-familiefar|url-status=live}}</ref> Hetfield searched for last-minute volunteers to replace Ulrich. Slayer drummer [[Dave Lombardo]] and [[Slipknot (band)|Slipknot]] drummer [[Joey Jordison]] volunteered. Lombardo performed "Battery" and "The Four Horsemen", Ulrich's drum technician Flemming Larsen performed "Fade to Black", and Jordison performed the remainder of the set.<ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica's Lars Ulrich Hospitalized in Switzerland, Misses Show|publisher=[[Yahoo Music]]|date=June 7, 2004|url=http://new.music.yahoo.com/metallica/news/metallicas-lars-ulrich-hospitalized-in-switzerland-misses-show--12054238|access-date=December 9, 2006|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100501034029/http://new.music.yahoo.com/metallica/news/metallicas-lars-ulrich-hospitalized-in-switzerland-misses-show--12054238|archive-date=May 1, 2010}}</ref> Having toured for two years in support of ''St. Anger'' on the Summer Sanitarium Tour 2003 and the [[Madly in Anger with the World Tour]], with multi-platinum rock band [[Godsmack]] in support, Metallica took a break from performing and spent most of 2005 with friends and family. The band opened for [[the Rolling Stones]] at [[AT&T Park|SBC Park]] in San Francisco on November 13 and 15, 2005.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kaufman|first=Gil|title=Metallica Opening for Rolling Stones in San Francisco|publisher=MTV|date=April 3, 2005|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1506869/20050803/metallica.jhtml|access-date=December 5, 2007|archive-date=December 2, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081202030127/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1506869/20050803/metallica.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===2006–2013: ''Death Magnetic'' and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction<!--'Blackened Recordings' redirects here-->===
In February 2006, Metallica announced on its official website that after 15 years, long-time producer Bob Rock would not be producing the band's next studio album. Instead, the band chose to work with producer [[Rick Rubin]].<ref>{{cite web|title=If You Want a Successful Album – Work with Rick Rubin|publisher=Tixsearcher.com|url=http://www.tixsearcher.com/blog/if-you-want-a-successful-album-work-with-rick-rubin|access-date=August 19, 2014|archive-date=November 23, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123222440/https://www.tixsearcher.com/blog/if-you-want-a-successful-album-work-with-rick-rubin|url-status=live}}</ref> Around the same time, a petition signed by 1,500 fans was posted online in an attempt to encourage the band to prohibit Rock from producing Metallica albums, saying he had too much influence on the band's sound and musical direction. Rock said the petition hurt his children's feelings; he said, "sometimes, even with a great coach, a team keeps losing. You have to get new blood in there."<ref>{{cite web |last1=Blabbermouth |title=Bob Rock Says Metallica Fans' Petition To Dump Him Was 'Hurtful' To His Kids |url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/bob-rock-says-metallica-fans-petition-to-dump-him-was-hurtful-to-his-kids/ |website=Blabbermouth |date=September 18, 2006 |access-date=May 3, 2021 |archive-date=May 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210503141512/https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/bob-rock-says-metallica-fans-petition-to-dump-him-was-hurtful-to-his-kids/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In December 2006, Metallica released a DVD titled ''[[The Videos 1989–2004]]'', which sold 28,000 copies in its first week and entered the ''Billboard'' Top Videos chart at number three.<ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica's 'Videos' beats Slipknot's Voliminal' on Music Video Chart|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=December 15, 2006|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=63882|access-date=December 5, 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071219142444/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=63882|archive-date=December 19, 2007}}</ref> Metallica recorded a guitar-based interpretation of [[Ennio Morricone]]'s "[[The Ecstasy of Gold]]" for a tribute album titled ''[[We All Love Ennio Morricone]]'', which was released in February 2007. The track received a Grammy nomination at the [[50th Grammy Awards]] for the category "[[Best Rock Instrumental Performance]]".<ref>{{cite web|title=Best Metal Performance|publisher=Grammy.com|url=http://www.grammy.com/GRAMMY_Awards/50th_Show/list.aspx#04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071208065050/http://www.grammy.com/GRAMMY_Awards/50th_Show/list.aspx|archive-date=December 8, 2007|access-date=December 7, 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> A recording of "The Ecstasy of Gold" has been played to introduce Metallica's performances since the 1980s.<ref>{{cite news|title=We All Love Ennio Morricone|url=http://www.metallica.com/releases/we-all-love-ennio-morricone.asp|publisher=Metallica.com|date=February 20, 2007|access-date=December 12, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150124231104/http://www.metallica.com/releases/we-all-love-ennio-morricone.asp|archive-date=January 24, 2015}}</ref>

[[File:Metallica London 2008-09-15 Kirk and James.jpg|thumb|right|Metallica performing in London in 2008]]
Metallica scheduled the release of the album ''[[Death Magnetic]]'' as September 12, 2008, and the band filmed a music video for the album's first single, "[[The Day That Never Comes]]". On September 2, 2008, a record store in France began selling copies of ''Death Magnetic'' nearly two weeks before its scheduled worldwide release date,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=103902|title=Metallica's 'Death Magnetic' Sold Two Weeks Early at French Record Store?|publisher=Roadrunner Records|work=Blabbermouth.net|access-date=November 7, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110809005659/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=103902|archive-date=August 9, 2011}}</ref> which resulted in the album being made available on peer-to-peer clients. This prompted the band's UK distributor [[Vertigo Records]] to officially release the album on September 10, 2008. Rumors of Metallica or Warner Bros. taking legal action against the French retailer were unconfirmed, though drummer Lars Ulrich responded to the [[Music leak|leak]] by saying, "...{{nbsp}}We're ten days from release. I mean, from here, we're golden. If this thing leaks all over the world today or tomorrow, happy days. Happy days. Trust me",<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.kerrang.com/2008/09/metallica_album_leak.html|title=Metallica album leak...|work=Kerrang!|access-date=September 17, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080905225835/http://www2.kerrang.com/2008/09/metallica_album_leak.html|archive-date=September 5, 2008}}</ref> and, "By 2008 standards, that's a victory. If you'd told me six months ago that our record wouldn't leak until 10 days out, I would have signed up for that."<ref>{{cite news|last=Gundersen|first=Edna|url=https://www.usatoday.com/life/music/news/2008-09-10-metallica-main_N.htm|title=Metallica remains calm over 'Magnetic' leaks|date=September 11, 2008|newspaper=[[USA Today]]|access-date=September 17, 2008|archive-date=September 14, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914002320/http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/news/2008-09-10-metallica-main_N.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>

''Death Magnetic'' marked a return to the band's traditional thrash metal sound. The album debuted at number one in the U.S., selling 490,000 units; Metallica became the first band to have five consecutive studio albums debut at number one in the history of the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200.<ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica's Death Magnetic Reigns on European Album Chart|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=September 25, 2008|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=105557|access-date=September 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080928060133/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=105557|archive-date=September 28, 2008}}</ref> A week after its release, ''Death Magnetic'' remained at number one on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200 and the European album chart; it also became the fastest selling album of 2008 in Australia.<ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica's Death Magnetic Is Fastest-Selling Album of the Year in Australia|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=September 21, 2008|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=105261|access-date=September 29, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080925030948/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=105261|archive-date=September 25, 2008}}</ref> ''Death Magnetic'' remained at number one on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200 album chart for three consecutive weeks. Metallica was one of two artists whose album{{mdash}}the other being [[Jack Johnson (musician)|Jack Johnson]]'s album ''[[Sleep Through the Static]]''{{mdash}}remained on the ''Billboard''&nbsp;200 for three consecutive weeks at number one in 2008. ''Death Magnetic'' also remained at number one on ''Billboard''{{'s}} Hard Rock, Modern Rock/Alternative and Rock album charts for five consecutive weeks. The album reached number one in 32 countries outside the U.S., including the UK, Canada, and Australia.<ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica's Death Magnetic Tops Album Chart for Third Week in a Row|publisher=EuroInvester|date=October 1, 2008|url=http://www.euroinvestor.co.uk/news/story.aspx?id=9983169|access-date=June 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217000627/http://www.euroinvestor.co.uk/news/story.aspx?id=9983169|archive-date=February 17, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica nominated in the EMA's and playing live at the VMA's in Latin America|publisher=Alternativeware|date=October 8, 2008|url=http://www.geocities.com/alerivmx/metallica0.htm|access-date=October 8, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090805212851/http://geocities.com/alerivmx/metallica0.htm|archive-date=August 5, 2009}}</ref> In November 2008, Metallica's record deal with Warner Bros. ended and the band considered releasing its next album through the internet.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/general_music_news/metallica_consider_releasing_next_album_online.html|title=Metallica Consider Releasing Next Album Online|publisher=Ultimate-guitar.com|access-date=October 1, 2009|archive-date=September 25, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090925040801/http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/general_music_news/metallica_consider_releasing_next_album_online.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.Net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=111000|title=Jimmy Page, Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai Among Chop Shop's Top Guitarists|publisher=Roadrunner Records|work=Blabbermouth.net|access-date=October 1, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090315195841/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=111000|archive-date=March 15, 2009}}</ref>

On January 14, 2009, it was announced that Metallica would be inducted into the [[Rock and Roll Hall of Fame]] on April 4, 2009,<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Cohen|first=Jonathan|title=Metallica, Run D.M.C. Lead Rock Hall Inductees|magazine=Billboard|date=January 14, 2009|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/269611/metallica-run-dmc-lead-rock-hall-inductees|access-date=January 14, 2009|archive-date=July 3, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140703092310/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/269611/metallica-run-dmc-lead-rock-hall-inductees|url-status=live}}</ref> and that former bassist Jason Newsted{{mdash}}who left the band in 2001{{mdash}}would perform with the band at the ceremony.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.idiomag.com/peek/72984/metallica|title=Jason Newsted to rejoin Metallica|access-date=March 30, 2009|date=March 30, 2009|publisher=[[idiomag]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090402193125/http://www.idiomag.com/peek/72984/metallica|archive-date=April 2, 2009}}</ref> Initially, it was announced that the matter had been discussed and that bassist Trujillo had agreed not to play because he "wanted to see the Black Album band".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.idiomag.com/peek/73495/metallica|title=Jason Newsted: Trujillo won't play with Metallica during Rock Hall induction|access-date=April 1, 2009|date=April 1, 2009|publisher=[[idiomag]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090406063630/http://www.idiomag.com/peek/73495/metallica|archive-date=April 6, 2009}}</ref> However, during the band's set of "Master of Puppets" and "Enter Sandman", both Trujillo and Newsted were on stage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/music-rock-idUSN0436280220090405|title=Metallica rocks Hall of Fame with other new members|work=Reuters|date=April 5, 2009|access-date=April 5, 2009|archive-date=March 6, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306092701/http://www.reuters.com/article/music-rock-idUSN0436280220090405|url-status=live}}</ref> Ray Burton, father of the late Cliff Burton, accepted the honor on his behalf. Although he was not to be inducted with them, Metallica invited Dave Mustaine to take part in the induction ceremony. Mustaine declined because of his touring commitments in Europe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/dave-mustaine-to-metallica-i-am-so-very-proud-of-all-you-have-accomplished/|title=Dave Mustaine to Metallica: 'I Am So Very Proud of All You Have Accomplished'|publisher=Roadrunner Records|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=February 27, 2009|access-date=October 1, 2009|archive-date=December 19, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131219090839/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/dave-mustaine-to-metallica-i-am-so-very-proud-of-all-you-have-accomplished/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Metallica at the O2 Arena, March 28th 2009.jpg|thumb|Metallica performing in London in 2009]]
Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax performed on the same bill for the first time on June 16, 2010, at [[Warsaw Babice Airport]], Poland, as a part of the [[Sonisphere Festival]] series. The show in Sofia, Bulgaria, on June 22, 2010, was broadcast via satellite to cinemas.<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Andre|last=Paine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/957831/metallica-heading-to-cinemas|title=Metallica Heading to Cinemas|magazine=Billboard|date=September 14, 2009|access-date=November 7, 2010|archive-date=February 12, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130212162315/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/957831/metallica-heading-to-cinemas|url-status=live}}</ref> The bands also played concerts in [[Bucharest]] on June 26, 2010, and [[Istanbul]] on June 27, 2010. On June 28, 2010, ''Death Magnetic'' was certified double platinum by the [[RIAA]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?artist=%22Death+Magnetic%22|archive-url=https://archive.today/20131225163522/http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?artist=%22Death+Magnetic%22|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 25, 2013|title=Gold and Platinum|website = [[Recording Industry Association of America]]|access-date=July 24, 2010}}</ref> Metallica's [[World Magnetic Tour]] ended in [[Melbourne]] on November 21, 2010. The band had been touring for more than two years in support of ''Death Magnetic''. To accompany the final tour dates in Australia and New Zealand, a live, limited edition EP of past performances in Australia called ''[[Six Feet Down Under]]'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/sep-16-2010-heading-down-under.asp|title=Heading Down Under|publisher=Metallica|date=September 16, 2010|access-date=October 12, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130119001053/https://www.metallica.com/news/sep-16-2010-heading-down-under.asp|archive-date=January 19, 2013}}</ref> The EP was followed by ''[[Six Feet Down Under (Part II)]]'', which was released on November 12, 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/oct-25-2010-final-release-for-2010.asp|title=Final Release for 2010|publisher=Metallica|date=October 25, 2010|access-date=November 15, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120104125954/http://www.metallica.com/news/oct-25-2010-final-release-for-2010.asp|archive-date=January 4, 2012}}</ref> Part 2 contains a further eight songs recorded during the first two Oceanic Legs of the World Magnetic Tour. On November 26, 2010, Metallica released a live EP titled ''[[Live at Grimey's]]'', which was recorded in June 2008 at Grimey's Record Store, just before the band's appearance at [[Bonnaroo Music Festival]] that year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=147257|title=Metallica: 'Live at Grimey's' EP Due in November|publisher=Roadrunner Records|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=October 6, 2010|access-date=October 12, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101009191131/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=147257|archive-date=October 9, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://metallica.com/index.asp?item=603402|title=One More for 2010!|publisher=Metallica.com|date=October 6, 2010|access-date=October 12, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101010122500/http://www.metallica.com/index.asp?item=603402|archive-date=October 10, 2010}}</ref>

In a June 2009 interview with Italy's Rock TV, Ulrich said Metallica was planning to continue touring until August 2010, and that there were no plans for a tenth album. He said he was sure the band would collaborate with producer Rick Rubin again.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.Net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=123454|title=Metallica's Lars Ulrich: I Would Like to Make Another Album with Rick Rubin|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=July 11, 2009|access-date=July 11, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090715011049/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=123454|archive-date=July 15, 2009}}</ref> According to [[Blabbermouth.net]], the band was considering recording its next album in the second half of 2011.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-is-open-to-performing-full-albums-in-concert-again/|title=METALLICA Is Open To Performing Full Albums In Concert Again|website=Blabbermouth.net|access-date=February 13, 2018|date=October 15, 2009|archive-date=October 18, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091018042345/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=128779|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2010, during an interview with The Pulse of Radio, Ulrich said Metallica would return to writing in 2011. Ulrich said, "There's a bunch of balls in the air for 2011, but I think the main one is we really want to get back to writing again. We haven't really written since, what, '06, '07, and we want to get back to kind of just being creative again. Right now we are going to just chill out and then probably start up again in, I'd say, March or April, and start probably putting the creative cap back on and start writing some songs."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/upcoming_releases/metallica_to_begin_work_on_new_album.html|title=Metallica to Begin Work on New Album|publisher=Ultimate-Guitar|date=November 11, 2010|access-date=November 11, 2010|archive-date=November 12, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101112185831/http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/upcoming_releases/metallica_to_begin_work_on_new_album.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Metallica3425.jpg|thumb|Metallica performing in Sacramento in 2009]]
On November 9, 2010, Metallica announced it would be headlining the [[Rock in Rio]] festival in [[Rio de Janeiro]] on September 25, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=149089|title=Metallica Confirmed for Brazil's Rock In Rio Festival|publisher=Roadrunner Records|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=November 9, 2010|access-date=November 9, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110211062641/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=149089|archive-date=February 11, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/nov-09-2010-shows-in-2011.asp|title=Shows in 2011?!?!?!|publisher=Metallica|date=November 9, 2010|access-date=June 8, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120104135641/http://www.metallica.com/news/nov-09-2010-shows-in-2011.asp|archive-date=January 4, 2012}}</ref> On December 13, 2010, the band announced it would again play as part of the "big four" during the Sonisphere Festival at [[Knebworth House]], Hertfordshire, on July 8, 2011. It was the first time all of the "big four" members played on the same stage in the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/dec-13-2010-tallica-at-sonisphere-uk.asp|title='Tallica at Sonisphere U.K.|publisher=Metallica.com|date=December 13, 2010|access-date=December 13, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110514164104/http://www.metallica.com/news/dec-13-2010-tallica-at-sonisphere-uk.asp|archive-date=May 14, 2011}}</ref> On December 17, 2010, Another "big four" Sonisphere performance that would take place in France on July 9 was announced.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/dec-17-2010-more-big-4.asp|title=More Big 4!|publisher=Metallica.com|date=December 17, 2010|access-date=June 8, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120105120933/http://www.metallica.com/news/dec-17-2010-more-big-4.asp|archive-date=January 5, 2012}}</ref> On January 25, 2011, another "big four" performance on April 23, 2011, at the Empire Polo Club in [[Indio, California]], was announced. It was the first time all of the "big four" members played on the same stage in the U.S.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/the-big-four-coming-to-the-states.asp|title=The Big Four Coming to the States|publisher=Metallica.com|date=January 25, 2011|access-date=June 8, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110410011811/http://www.metallica.com/news/the-big-four-coming-to-the-states.asp|archive-date=April 10, 2011}}</ref> On February 17, 2011, a show in [[Gelsenkirchen]], Germany, on July 2, 2011, was announced.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/the-big-4-european-edition-continued.asp|title=The Big 4...European Edition Continued|publisher=Metallica.com|date=February 17, 2011|access-date=June 8, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110404030250/http://www.metallica.com/news/the-big-4-european-edition-continued.asp|archive-date=April 4, 2011}}</ref> On February 22, a "big four" show in [[Milan]] on July 6, 2011, was announced.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/20110222_news.asp|title=Big 4 Again!|publisher=Metallica.com|date=February 22, 2011|access-date=June 8, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110402042525/http://www.metallica.com/news/20110222_news.asp|archive-date=April 2, 2011}}</ref> On March 2, 2011, another "big four" concert, which took place in [[Gothenburg]] on July 3, 2011, was announced.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/20110302_news.asp|title=Big 4 to Sweden!|publisher=Metallica.com|date=March 2, 2011|access-date=June 8, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110404232633/http://www.metallica.com/news/20110302_news.asp|archive-date=April 4, 2011}}</ref> The final "big four" concert was in New York City, at Yankee Stadium, on September 14, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/music-arts/big-yankee-stadium-metallica-slayer-megadeth-anthrax-thrash-masses-article-1.955330|title='Big Four' at Yankee Stadium: Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth and Anthrax thrash for the masses|website=[[New York Daily News]]|date=September 15, 2011|access-date=January 13, 2016|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304104458/http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/music-arts/big-yankee-stadium-metallica-slayer-megadeth-anthrax-thrash-masses-article-1.955330|url-status=live}}</ref>

In an interview at the April 2011 Big Four concert, Robert Trujillo said Metallica will work with Rick Rubin again as producer for the new album and were "really excited to write some new music. There's no shortage of riffage in Metallica world right now." He added, "The first album with Rick was also the first album for me, so in a lot of ways, you're kind of testing the water. Now that we're comfortable with Rick and his incredible engineer, [[Greg Fidelman]], who worked with Slayer, actually, on this last record{{mdash}}it's my hero{{mdash}}it's a great team. And it's only gonna better; I really believe that. So I'm super-excited."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=157197|title=Metallica to Re-Team with Producer Rick Rubin for Next Album, Says Bassist|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=April 24, 2011|access-date=April 24, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110426191857/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=157197|archive-date=April 26, 2011}}</ref> In June 2011, Rubin said Metallica had begun writing its new album.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=159673|title=Metallica 'About to Start Writing' New Album, Says Producer Rick Rubin|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=June 20, 2011|access-date=June 21, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110623175629/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=159673|archive-date=June 23, 2011}}</ref>

On June 15, 2011, Metallica announced that recording sessions with singer-songwriter [[Lou Reed]] had concluded. The album, which was titled ''[[Lulu (Lou Reed and Metallica album)|Lulu]]'', was recorded over several months and comprised ten songs<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/page.asp?ps_key=4F31377A8B5746E1B0437710353B2797|title=Secret Recording Project?|access-date=June 16, 2011|date=June 15, 2011|work=Metallica.com|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110619190609/http://www.metallica.com/page.asp?ps_key=4F31377A8B5746E1B0437710353B2797|archive-date=June 19, 2011}}</ref> based on [[Frank Wedekind]]'s "Lulu" plays ''[[Earth Spirit (play)|Earth Spirit]]'' and ''[[Pandora's Box (play)|Pandora's Box]]''.<ref name=exclaim>{{cite web|last=Thiessen|first=Brock|title=Metallica and Lou Reed Set Release Date for Collaborative Album|work=[[Exclaim!]]|date=August 19, 2011|url=http://exclaim.ca/News/metallica_lou_reed_set_release_date_for_collaborative_album|access-date=August 21, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120219070722/http://exclaim.ca/News/metallica_lou_reed_set_release_date_for_collaborative_album|archive-date=February 19, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> The album was released on October 31, 2011. The recording of the album was problematic at times; Lars Ulrich later said Lou Reed challenged him to a "street fight".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.3news.co.nz/Lou-Reed-challenged-Lars-Ulrich-to-street-fight/tabid/418/articleID/253301/Default.aspx|work=3 News NZ|title=Lou Reed challenged Lars Ulrich to street fight|date=May 7, 2012|access-date=December 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020122933/http://www.3news.co.nz/Lou-Reed-challenged-Lars-Ulrich-to-street-fight/tabid/418/articleID/253301/Default.aspx|archive-date=October 20, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> On October 16, 2011, Robert Trujillo confirmed that the band was back in the studio and writing new material. He said, "The writing process for the new Metallica album has begun. We've been in the studio with Rick Rubin, working on a couple of things, and we're going to be recording during the most of next year."<ref>{{cite web|last=Warner|first=Brett|url=http://ology.com/music/metallica-begin-work-their-next-studio-album|title=Metallica Begin Work on Their Next Studio Album|publisher=Ology|date=October 26, 2011|access-date=October 30, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111106002222/http://ology.com/music/metallica-begin-work-their-next-studio-album|archive-date=November 6, 2011}}</ref>

[[File:Metallica (6350334052).jpg|thumb|Metallica performing in Bangalore in 2011]]
Metallica was due to make its first appearance in India at the "India Rocks" concert, supporting the [[2011 Indian Grand Prix]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.withjim.com/2011/08/metallica-in-india.html|title=Metallica in India|publisher=Withjim.Com|access-date=February 15, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120205041230/http://www.withjim.com/2011/08/metallica-in-india.html|archive-date=February 5, 2012}}</ref> However, the concert was canceled when the venue was proven to be unsafe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/page.asp?ps_key=EF025899934A4A01B6F0F5973A7D17DB|title=Delhi Show Update|publisher=Metallica.com|access-date=October 30, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111030135905/http://www.metallica.com/page.asp?ps_key=EF025899934A4A01B6F0F5973A7D17DB|archive-date=October 30, 2011}}</ref> Fans raided the stage during the event and the organizers were later arrested for fraud.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-15511431|title=Metallica: India gig organisers arrested|publisher=BBC|date=October 30, 2011|access-date=November 4, 2011|newspaper=BBC News|archive-date=November 3, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111103175428/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-15511431|url-status=live}}</ref> Metallica made its Indian debut in Bangalore on October 30, 2011.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/bangalore-rocks-to-metallica-despite-rains/197678-60-119.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111101220641/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/bangalore-rocks-to-metallica-despite-rains/197678-60-119.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 1, 2011|title=Delhi Show Update|publisher=IBN}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/bangalore/report_heavy-metal-heaven-as-heads-bang-in-bangalore_1605359|title=Heavy metal heaven as heads bang in Bangalore|work=DNA|date=October 31, 2011|access-date=October 31, 2011|archive-date=August 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120806211045/http://www.dnaindia.com/bangalore/report_heavy-metal-heaven-as-heads-bang-in-bangalore_1605359|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 10, it was announced that Metallica would headline the main stage on Saturday June 9, 2012, at the Download Festival at Donington Park and that the band would play ''The Black Album'' in its entirety.<ref>[http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/15684593 "Metallica to headline Download Festival at Donington"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228051338/http://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/15684593 |date=February 28, 2014 }}. BBC. Retrieved November 15, 2011.</ref> Metallica celebrated its 30th anniversary by playing four shows at [[the Fillmore]] in San Francisco in December 2011. The shows were exclusive to Met Club members and tickets were charged at $6 each or $19.81 for all four nights. The shows consisted of songs from the band's career and featured guest appearances by artists who had either helped or had influenced Metallica. These shows were notable because Lloyd Grant, Dave Mustaine, Jason Newsted, [[Glenn Danzig]], [[Ozzy Osbourne]], [[Jerry Cantrell]], [[Apocalyptica]], members of [[Diamond Head (British band)|Diamond Head]], and [[King Diamond]] joined Metallica on stage for all appropriate songs.<ref>{{cite web|author=Metallica|url=http://theaudioperv.com/2011/12/12/metallica-celebrate-30-year-anniversary-at-the-fillmore-in-san-francisco-with-special-guests-new-beyond-magnetic-ep/|title=Metallica Celebrate 30-Year Anniversary at the Fillmore in San Francisco with Special Guests, New Beyond Magnetic EP|publisher=The Audio Perv|date=March 22, 2012|access-date=March 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170929173227/http://theaudioperv.com/2011/12/12/metallica-celebrate-30-year-anniversary-at-the-fillmore-in-san-francisco-with-special-guests-new-beyond-magnetic-ep/|archive-date=September 29, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/jul-27-2011-thirty-years.asp|title=News &#124; Thirty Years... A Week Long Celebration in San Francisco|publisher=Metallica.com|access-date=March 26, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120328102941/http://www.metallica.com/news/jul-27-2011-thirty-years.asp|archive-date=March 28, 2012}}</ref> In December 2011, Metallica began releasing songs that were written for ''Death Magnetic'' but were not included on the album online.<ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica post two previously unreleased tracks online{{mdash}}listen|url=https://www.nme.com/news/metallica/60858|work=NME|access-date=December 10, 2011|date=December 8, 2011|archive-date=January 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107223204/http://www.nme.com/news/metallica/60858|url-status=live}}</ref> On December 13, 2011, the band released ''[[Beyond Magnetic]]'', a digital EP release exclusively on [[iTunes]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/album/beyond-magnetic-ep/id485472347|title=''Beyond Magnetic'' on iTunes|publisher=[[iTunes]]|access-date=July 15, 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130517005837/https://itunes.apple.com/album/beyond-magnetic-ep/id485472347|archive-date=May 17, 2013}}</ref> It was released on CD in January 2012.<ref>{{cite web|title=Beyond Magnetic EP|url=https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Magnetic-EP-Metallica/dp/B006T5FDLG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1351512063&sr=8-1&keywords=metallica+beyond+magnetic|work=Amazon.com|access-date=October 29, 2012|date=January 31, 2012|archive-date=July 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190701034542/https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Magnetic-EP-Metallica/dp/B006T5FDLG/ref%3Dsr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1351512063&sr=8-1&keywords=metallica%2Bbeyond%2Bmagnetic|url-status=live}}</ref>

On February 7, 2012, Metallica announced that it would start a new music festival called [[Orion Music + More]], which took place on June 23 and 24, 2012, in Atlantic City. Metallica also confirmed that it would headline the festival on both days and would perform two of its most critically acclaimed albums in their entirety: ''The Black Album'' on one night, and ''Ride the Lightning'' on the other.<ref>{{cite magazine|author=Stacey Anderson|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/metallica-announce-orion-music-festival-20120207|title=Metallica Announce Orion Music Festival &#124; Music News|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=February 7, 2012|access-date=March 26, 2012|archive-date=May 1, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120501033641/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/metallica-announce-orion-music-festival-20120207|url-status=live}}</ref> In a July 2012 interview with Canadian radio station [[CFOX-FM|99.3 The Fox]], Ulrich said Metallica would not release its new album until at least early 2014.<ref name=newalbum>{{cite news|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=177356|title=No New Metallica Album Before 2014 at the Earliest, Says LARS ULRICH|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=July 27, 2012|access-date=July 27, 2012|archive-date=February 20, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210220134420/https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/no-new-metallica-album-before-2014-at-the-earliest-says-lars-ulrich/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In November 2012, Metallica left Warner Bros. Records and launched an [[independent record label]], '''Blackened Recordings'''<!--boldface per WP:R#PLA-->, which will produce the band's future releases.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Metallica Launch New Record Label|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/metallica-launch-new-record-label-20121130|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|date=November 30, 2012|access-date=April 6, 2014|archive-date=April 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140414000035/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/metallica-launch-new-record-label-20121130|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.3news.co.nz/Metallica-leaves-Warner-forms-Blackened-Recordings/tabid/418/articleID/278958/Default.aspx|work=3 News NZ|title=Metallica forms Blackened Recordings|date=December 3, 2012|access-date=December 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201113512/http://www.3news.co.nz/Metallica-leaves-Warner-forms-Blackened-Recordings/tabid/418/articleID/278958/Default.aspx|archive-date=February 1, 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> The band acquired the rights to all of its studio albums, which were all reissued through the new label. Blackened releases were licensed through Warner subsidiary [[Rhino Entertainment]] in North America and internationally through [[Universal Music]].<ref name=LATimes>{{Cite news|last=Roberts|first=Randall|url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/posts/la-et-ms-metallica-leaves-label-forms-blackened-records-20121130,0,5225406.story|title=Metallica leaves Warner Music with its masters, forms Blackened Records|date=November 30, 2012|access-date=December 17, 2012|newspaper=Los Angeles Times|archive-date=December 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121205175001/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/posts/la-et-ms-metallica-leaves-label-forms-blackened-records-20121130,0,5225406.story|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Hogan|first=Marc|url=https://www.spin.com/2012/11/metallica-new-label-blackened-recordings/|title=Metallica Name Their New Label: Blackened Recordings &#124; SPIN &#124; Newswire|publisher=SPIN|date=November 30, 2012|access-date=December 17, 2012|archive-date=November 24, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124235559/http://www.spin.com/2012/11/metallica-new-label-blackened-recordings/|url-status=live}}</ref> On September 20, 2012, Metallica announced via its official website that a new DVD containing footage of shows it performed in Quebec in 2009 would be released that December; fans would get the chance to vote for two setlists that would appear on the DVD.<ref>{{cite web|title=News &#124; More Magnetic... on DVD!|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/20120917-more-magnetic-on-dvd.asp|work=Metallica.com|access-date=November 18, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120923015109/http://www.metallica.com/news/20120917-more-magnetic-on-dvd.asp|archive-date=September 23, 2012}}</ref> The film, titled ''[[Quebec Magnetic]]'', was released in the U.S. on December 10, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=181211|title=Metallica: 'Quebec Magnetic' DVD, Blu-Ray Artwork Unveiled|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=October 22, 2012|access-date=November 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025233706/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=181211|archive-date=October 25, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===2013–2019: ''Metallica: Through the Never'' and ''Hardwired... to Self-Destruct''===
[[File:Metallica 2013.jpg|thumb|Metallica at [[San Diego Comic-Con]] in 2013]]
In an interview with ''[[Classic Rock (magazine)|Classic Rock]]'' on January 8, 2013, Ulrich said regarding the band's upcoming album, "What we're doing now certainly sounds like a continuation [of ''Death Magnetic'']". He also said, "I love Rick [Rubin]. We all love Rick. We're in touch with Rick constantly. We'll see where it goes. It would stun me if the record came out in 2013."<ref>{{cite web|last=Barton|first=Geoff|title=Ulrich: Metallica 3D movie project influenced by Zeppelin|url=http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/ulrich-metallica-3d-movie-project-influenced-by-led-zeppelin/|publisher=Classic Rock Magazine|access-date=January 19, 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130113022730/http://www.classicrockmagazine.com/news/ulrich-metallica-3d-movie-project-influenced-by-led-zeppelin/|archive-date=January 13, 2013}}</ref> Also in 2013, the band starred in a 3D concert film titled ''[[Metallica: Through the Never]]'', which was directed by [[Antal Nimród]] and was released in [[IMAX]] theaters on September 27.<ref>{{cite magazine|author=RJ Cubarrubia|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/metallicas-3d-movie-headed-to-imax-20130424|title=Metallica's 3D Movie Headed to IMAX|magazine=Rollingstone.com|date=April 24, 2013|access-date=July 15, 2013|archive-date=July 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130701095720/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/metallicas-3d-movie-headed-to-imax-20130424|url-status=live}}</ref>

In an interview dated July 22, 2013, Ulrich told ''Ultimate Guitar'', "2014 will be all about making a new Metallica record"; he said the album will most likely be released during 2015.<ref>{{cite web|title=Metallica to Hit the Studio in 2014: 'We'll Run Out of Excuses for Not Doing It by Then'|url=http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/upcoming_releases/metallica_to_hit_the_studio_in_2014_well_run_out_of_excuses_for_not_doing_it_by_then.html|publisher=Ultimate-Guitar|access-date=July 25, 2013|archive-date=April 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403080029/https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/upcoming_releases/metallica_to_hit_the_studio_in_2014_well_run_out_of_excuses_for_not_doing_it_by_then.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo later confirmed the band's intention to enter the studio.<ref>{{cite web|last=Dekel|first=Jon|title=Metallica to record new album in 2014|work=canada.com |url=http://o.canada.com/entertainment/tiff13/metallica-to-record-new-album-in-2014/|publisher=[[Postmedia News]]|date=September 9, 2013|access-date=December 26, 2013|archive-date=December 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131229153844/http://o.canada.com/entertainment/tiff13/metallica-to-record-new-album-in-2014/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the second Orion Music + More festival held in Detroit, the band played under the name "Dehaan"{{mdash}}a reference to actor [[Dane DeHaan]], who starred in ''Metallica: Through the Never''.<ref>{{cite web|author=<!--Not stated-->|title=Metallica Surprise by Playing 'Kill 'Em All' Set Under Fake Name Dehaan|url=http://noisecreep.com/metallica-surprise-kill-em-all-set-fake-name-dehaan/|website=[[Noisecreep]]|date=June 9, 2013|access-date=December 21, 2013|archive-date=December 14, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214102235/http://noisecreep.com/metallica-surprise-kill-em-all-set-fake-name-dehaan/|url-status=live}}</ref> The band performed its debut album ''Kill 'Em All'' in its entirety, celebrating the 30th anniversary of its release.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Graff|first=Gary|title=Who Is Dehaan? It's Metallica, Playing 'Kill 'Em All' at Orion Music Festival|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1566353/who-is-dehaan-its-metallica-playing-kill-em-all-at-orion-music-festival|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|date=June 8, 2013|access-date=December 21, 2013|archive-date=December 19, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131219053553/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1566353/who-is-dehaan-its-metallica-playing-kill-em-all-at-orion-music-festival|url-status=live}}</ref>

On December 8, 2013, the band played a show called "[[Freeze 'Em All]]" in Antarctica, becoming the first band to play on all seven continents.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Coleman|first=Miriam|title=Metallica Play a Dome in Antarctica|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/metallica-play-a-dome-in-antarctica-20131209|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|date=December 9, 2013|access-date=December 11, 2013|archive-date=January 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108182705/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/metallica-play-a-dome-in-antarctica-20131209|url-status=dead}}</ref> The performance was filmed and released as a live album the same month.<ref>{{cite web|last=Adams|first=Gregory|title=Metallica Release 'Freeze 'Em All' Live Album|url=http://exclaim.ca/News/metallica_release_freeze_em_all_live_album|work=[[Exclaim!]]|date=December 19, 2013|access-date=December 21, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140103124027/http://exclaim.ca/News/metallica_release_freeze_em_all_live_album|archive-date=January 3, 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>

At the [[56th Annual Grammy Awards]] in January 2014, Metallica performed "One" with Chinese pianist [[Lang Lang]].<ref>{{cite news|last=Ng|first=David|title=Grammys 2014: Lang Lang performs 'One' with Metallica|url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/arts/culture/la-et-cm-grammys-2014-lang-lang-metallica-20140127-story.html|access-date=March 18, 2014|newspaper=[[Los Angeles Times]]|date=January 27, 2014|archive-date=March 18, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140318220556/http://articles.latimes.com/2014/jan/27/entertainment/la-et-cm-grammys-2014-lang-lang-metallica-20140127|url-status=live}}</ref> In March 2014, Metallica began a tour called "Metallica By Request", in which fans request songs for the band to perform.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.guitarworld.com/metallica-announce-final-round-request-summer-2014-tour-dates|title=Metallica Announce Final Round of "By Request" Summer 2014 Tour Dates|work=Guitar World |date=December 4, 2013|access-date=May 27, 2017|archive-date=August 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801123159/http://www.guitarworld.com/metallica-announce-final-round-request-summer-2014-tour-dates|url-status=live}}</ref> A new song, titled "Lords of Summer" was written for the concerts and released as a "first take" demo in June 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallicas-lars-ulrich-says-new-song-lords-of-summer-is-going-down-well/|title=METALLICA's LARS ULRICH Says New Song 'Lords Of Summer' Is 'Going Down Well'|date=June 23, 2014|access-date=May 27, 2017|archive-date=August 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801121754/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallicas-lars-ulrich-says-new-song-lords-of-summer-is-going-down-well/|url-status=live}}</ref> In June 2014, the band headlined the [[Glastonbury Festival]] in an attempt to attract new fans. Ulrich said, "We have one shot, you never know if you'll be invited back".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-28070775|title=Metallica: Glastonbury experience was 'sensational'|first=Mark|last=Savage|work=BBC News|date=June 29, 2014|access-date=June 29, 2014|archive-date=June 29, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140629033752/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-28070775|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2014, Metallica performed at the closing ceremony of [[BlizzCon|BlizzCon 2014]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/16466905/metallica-performing-live-at-blizzcon%C2%AE-2014-10-21-2014|title=Metallica Performing Live at BlizzCon® 2014|work=Blizzard|date=October 21, 2014|access-date=July 19, 2015|archive-date=October 22, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141022132916/http://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/blog/16466905/metallica-performing-live-at-blizzcon%C2%AE-2014-10-21-2014|url-status=live}}</ref> In January 2015, Metallica announced a "Metallica Night" with the [[San Jose Sharks]], which featured a Q&A session with the band and a charity auction benefiting the San Francisco Bay Chapter of the Sierra Club, but no performances.<ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica Night with the San Jose Sharks|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/20141215-241073.asp|publisher=Metallica|date=December 15, 2014|access-date=June 15, 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629091356/http://www.metallica.com/news/20141215-241073.asp|archive-date=June 29, 2015}}</ref> They were announced to headline Lollapalooza in March 2015, returning to perform there for the first time in 20 years.<ref>{{cite news|title=Return To Lolla!|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/return-to-lolla.asp|publisher=Metallica|date=March 25, 2015|access-date=June 15, 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150619053459/http://www.metallica.com/news/return-to-lolla.asp|archive-date=June 19, 2015}}</ref> On May 2, 2015, Metallica performed their third annual Metallica Day at [[AT&T Park]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica Day At AT&T|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/3rd-metallica-day-at-att.asp|publisher=Metallica|date=May 1, 2015|access-date=June 15, 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150617014944/http://www.metallica.com/news/3rd-metallica-day-at-att.asp|archive-date=June 17, 2015}}</ref> Metallica were also announced to play at [[X Games]] for the first time at [[X Games Austin 2015]] in Austin, Texas.<ref>{{cite news|title=Off to Austin|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/20150511-598285.asp|publisher=Metallica|date=May 11, 2015|access-date=June 15, 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150607064557/http://www.metallica.com/news/20150511-598285.asp|archive-date=June 7, 2015}}</ref> On June 14, 2015, Hetfield and Hammett performed [[The Star-Spangled Banner]] live via electric guitars prior to game 5 of the [[2015 NBA Finals|NBA Finals]] between the [[2014–15 Cleveland Cavaliers season|Cleveland Cavaliers]] and [[2014–15 Golden State Warriors season|Golden State Warriors]] at [[Oracle Arena]] in [[Oakland, California]].<ref>{{cite press release|title=Metallica's Hetfield, Hammett to perform national anthem|url=http://www.nba.com/2015/news/06/13/members-of-metallica-to-perform-game-5/index.html|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=June 13, 2015|access-date=June 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150615151025/http://www.nba.com/2015/news/06/13/members-of-metallica-to-perform-game-5/index.html|archive-date=June 15, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Go Warriors!|url=http://www.metallica.com/news/20150612-175638.asp|publisher=Metallica|date=June 12, 2015|access-date=June 15, 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150614215851/http://www.metallica.com/news/20150612-175638.asp|archive-date=June 14, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite video|date=June 14, 2015|title=Metallica Performs National Anthem Before Finals Game 5|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKKBuuDKdsg| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211027/rKKBuuDKdsg| archive-date=October 27, 2021|medium=YouTube|publisher=National Basketball Association}}{{cbignore}}</ref> In late October, the band unveiled a new website with an introduction from Ulrich containing footage from the studio of the band working on new material.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.metallica.com/news/356048.html|title=New Site, New Club|website=Metallica.com|access-date=November 6, 2019|archive-date=November 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106214708/https://www.metallica.com/news/356048.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 2, Metallica were announced to play "The Night Before" [[Super Bowl 50]] at AT&T Park.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.metallica.com/news/356880.html|title=The Night Before|website=Metallica.com|access-date=November 6, 2019|archive-date=November 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106214804/https://www.metallica.com/news/356880.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Metallica announced they would be opening the [[U.S. Bank Stadium]] on August 20, 2016, with [[Avenged Sevenfold]] and [[Volbeat]] as support.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Metallica at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN on August 20, 2016 {{!}} Metallica.com |url=https://www.metallica.com/tour/2016-08-20-minneapolis-minnesota.html |access-date=2025-05-03 |website=www.metallica.com |language=en}}</ref>

[[File:Metallica - The O2 - Tuesday 24th October 2017 MetallicaO2241017-3 (37955387006) (cropped).jpg|thumb|left|Metallica performing in London in 2017]]
In April 2016, during the week leading up to [[Record Store Day]], for which the band was its ambassador for 2016, Ulrich told ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' that the band's expanded role within the music industry had played a part in the amount of time that it had taken to write and record the album. "The way we do things now is very different than the way we did things back in the days of ''Kill 'Em All'' and ''Ride the Lightning''. Nowadays we like to do so many different things." Ulrich was also optimistic that production of the album had almost reached its completion. "Unless something radical happens it would be difficult for me to believe that it won't come out in 2016".<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Bienstock|first=Richard|title=Lars Ulrich Takes Us Inside Metallica's Record Store Day Vault, Teases New Album|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/7326564/metallica-interview-lars-ulrich-record-store-day-2016-new-album|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|date=April 11, 2016|access-date=April 30, 2016|archive-date=May 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160514070258/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/7326564/metallica-interview-lars-ulrich-record-store-day-2016-new-album|url-status=live}}</ref> On August 18, 2016, the band announced via their website that their tenth studio album, ''[[Hardwired... to Self-Destruct]]'', would be released worldwide on November 18, 2016, via their independent label, Blackened Recordings. They also unveiled the track listing, album artwork, and released a music video for the album's first single, "Hardwired".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://metallica.com/blog/news/429181/hardwired-to-self-destruct-available-november-18-2|title=Hardwired – Metallica|date=August 18, 2016|website=Metallica|access-date=August 18, 2016|archive-date=August 16, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170816022406/https://www.metallica.com/blog/news/429181/hardwired-to-self-destruct-available-november-18-2|url-status=live}}</ref> The album was released as scheduled<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aussieosbourne.com/2016/11/metallicas-hardwiredto-self-destruct.html|title=Metallica's Hardwired…To Self-Destruct Out Today on Blackened Recordings|website=Aussieosbourne.com|access-date=May 27, 2017|archive-date=February 2, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202000923/http://www.aussieosbourne.com/2016/11/metallicas-hardwiredto-self-destruct.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and debuted at number one on the [[Billboard 200|''Billboard''&nbsp;200]].<ref name="Billboard_200_debut">{{cite magazine|first=Keith|last=Caulfield|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/7588880/billboard-200-metallica-no-1-album|title=Metallica Rocks With Sixth No. 1 Album on Billboard 200 Chart|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|date=November 28, 2016|access-date=November 28, 2016|archive-date=December 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191223125909/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/7588880/billboard-200-metallica-no-1-album|url-status=live}}</ref>

Metallica announced they would be touring the US and Canada in summer of 2017 for the [[WorldWired Tour]]. The stadium tour also includes Avenged Sevenfold, Volbeat and [[Gojira (band)|Gojira]] as supporting acts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://loudwire.com/metallica-2017-north-american-tour-avenged-sevenfold-volbeat-gojira/|title=Metallica 2017 Tour With Avenged Sevenfold, Volbeat + Gojira|website=Loudwire|date=February 13, 2017 |access-date=May 27, 2017|archive-date=November 23, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123171937/https://loudwire.com/metallica-2017-north-american-tour-avenged-sevenfold-volbeat-gojira/|url-status=live}}</ref> On August 7, 2017, Metallica was invited by the [[San Francisco Giants]] again for the fifth annual "Metallica Night" with Hammett and Hetfield performing the national anthem.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.metallica.com/news/438282.html|title=Fifth Annual Metallica Night with the San Francisco Giants &#124; Metallica.com|website=Metallica.com|access-date=November 6, 2019|archive-date=November 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191103171923/https://www.metallica.com/news/438282.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In January 2018, the band announced that they would be reissuing ''The $5.98 E.P. – Garage Days Re-Revisited'' on April 13 for [[Record Store Day]],<ref>{{cite news|title=Reissues Re-Revisited – Garage Days EP Coming April 13th|url=https://www.metallica.com/blog/news/451096/reissues-re-revisited|work=metallica.com|date=January 24, 2018|access-date=February 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180209063630/https://www.metallica.com/blog/news/451096/reissues-re-revisited|archive-date=February 9, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> and the sixth annual "Metallica Night" was also announced a few weeks later, this time in April, with all proceeds going to the All Within My Hands Foundation, which the band created in late 2017.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sixth Annual Metallica Night with the SF Giants|url=https://www.metallica.com/blog/news/451227/sixth-annual-metallica-night-with-the-sf-giants|work=metallica.com|date=February 5, 2018|access-date=February 8, 2018|archive-date=February 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180209122119/https://www.metallica.com/blog/news/451227/sixth-annual-metallica-night-with-the-sf-giants|url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2018, the band announced a second set of North American tour dates, most of which for cities that they had not visited in up to thirty years.<ref>{{cite news|title=North America, Round Two!|url=https://www.metallica.com/blog/news/451627/north-america-round-two|work=metallica.com|date=February 26, 2018|access-date=March 9, 2018|archive-date=February 27, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180227034309/https://www.metallica.com/blog/news/451627/north-america-round-two|url-status=live}}</ref>

===2019–2023: ''S&M2'' and ''72 Seasons''===
[[File:Metallica at Ippodromo San Siro, Milan, May 8th, 2019.jpg|thumb|Metallica performing in Milan, 2019]]
In an interview with Australian magazine ''[[The Music (magazine)|The Music]]''{{'}}s official podcast in March 2019, Trujillo said that Metallica had begun jamming on new material for its next studio album. "I'm excited about the next record because I believe it will also be a culmination of the two [previous] records and another journey. There's no shortage of original ideas, that's the beauty of being in this band." He estimated that the album would be released sooner than the previous two did, saying: "this time around I think we'll be able to jump on it a lot quicker and jump in the studio and start working."<ref>{{cite news|title=METALLICA's Next Album 'Will Come A Lot Sooner Than The Previous Two Did,' Says ROBERT TRUJILLO|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallicas-next-album-will-come-a-lot-sooner-than-the-previous-two-did-says-robert-trujillo/|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=March 14, 2019|access-date=March 14, 2019|archive-date=March 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190317041600/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallicas-next-album-will-come-a-lot-sooner-than-the-previous-two-did-says-robert-trujillo|url-status=live}}</ref> In an interview with Australian magazine ''Mixdown'' the following month, Hammett said that the band had tentative plans to enter the studio after the conclusion of its WorldWired Tour. He stated, "We're in our third year since ''Hardwired''. Maybe we can get a bit more focus and go into the studio a bit sooner." After not contributing any writing to ''Hardwired... to Self-Destruct'', Hammett said regarding his ideas for the new album, "I have a ton of material. I've over-compensated, so I'm ready to go anytime."<ref>{{cite news|title=KIRK HAMMETT: 'I Have A Ton Of Material' For METALLICA's Next Album|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/kirk-hammett-i-have-a-ton-of-material-for-next-metallica-album/|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=April 14, 2019|access-date=April 14, 2019|archive-date=April 15, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190415032604/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/kirk-hammett-i-have-a-ton-of-material-for-next-metallica-album/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In March 2019, Metallica announced that its WorldWired Tour would continue into Australia and New Zealand in October with Slipknot in support.<ref>{{cite news|last=Jenke|first=Tyler|title=Metallica and Slipknot have announced a massive Australian tour|url=https://tonedeaf.thebrag.com/metallica-slipknot-australian-tour-2019/|work=Tone Deaf|date=March 8, 2019|access-date=August 19, 2019|archive-date=August 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819103646/https://tonedeaf.thebrag.com/metallica-slipknot-australian-tour-2019/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Langford|first=Jackson|title=Metallica Announce 2019 Australian Tour With Slipknot|url=https://musicfeeds.com.au/news/metallica-announce-20__-australian-tour-with-slipknot/|work=[[Music Feeds]]|date=March 8, 2019|access-date=August 19, 2019|archive-date=September 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927100921/https://musicfeeds.com.au/news/metallica-announce-20__-australian-tour-with-slipknot/|url-status=live}}</ref> Later that month, the band announced that it would perform at the grand opening of San Francisco's new [[Chase Center]] with the San Francisco Symphony in September to celebrate the twenty-year anniversary of ''S&M''.<ref>{{cite news|last=Kennelty|first=Greg|title=METALLICA To Perform S&M 2 With Live Symphony This September|url=https://metalinjection.net/latest-news/metallica-to-perform-sm-2-with-live-symphony-this-september|work=Metal Injection|date=March 18, 2019|access-date=August 9, 2019|archive-date=August 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190808144900/https://metalinjection.net/latest-news/metallica-to-perform-sm-2-with-live-symphony-this-september|url-status=live}}</ref> The commemorative shows, titled ''[[S&M2]]'', were screened in more than 3,000 theaters worldwide on October 9;<ref name="UCR">{{cite news|last=Deriso|first=Nick|title=Metallica's Commemorative 'S&M2' Concert to Screen in Theaters|url=https://ultimateclassicrock.com/metallica-sm2-concert-theaters/|work=Ultimate Classic Rock|date=July 31, 2019|access-date=August 9, 2019|archive-date=August 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190808144852/https://ultimateclassicrock.com/metallica-sm2-concert-theaters/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="BillboardS&M2">{{cite magazine|last=Spruch|first=Kirsten|title=Metallica and San Francisco Symphony Unveil Trailer For 'S&M2' Concert Film: Watch|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/8526738/metallica-sm2-concert-film-trailer|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|date=August 7, 2019|access-date=August 9, 2019|archive-date=August 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190808144850/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/8526738/metallica-sm2-concert-film-trailer|url-status=live}}</ref> the event featured arrangements from the original ''S&M'' concerts as well as new arrangements for songs recorded since then<ref name="UCR"/><ref name="BillboardS&M2"/> and a cover of the [[Alexander Mosolov]] piece ''[[Iron Foundry]]'',<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Grow|first=Kory|title=Metallica and San Francisco Symphony Supersize the Hits at S&M2 Gig|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-live-reviews/metallica-san-francisco-symphony-sm2-review-881331/|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|date=September 7, 2019|access-date=September 28, 2019|archive-date=September 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190927223046/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-live-reviews/metallica-san-francisco-symphony-sm2-review-881331/|url-status=live}}</ref> and were conducted by [[Edwin Outwater]] and San Francisco Symphony music director [[Michael Tilson Thomas]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Harrington|first=Jim|title=Metallica: An exclusive behind-the-scenes look at S&M2 concerts|url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/09/04/metallica-an-exclusive-behind-the-scenes-look-at-sm-2-concerts/|work=[[The Mercury News]]|date=September 4, 2019|access-date=September 5, 2019|archive-date=September 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190904203841/https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/09/04/metallica-an-exclusive-behind-the-scenes-look-at-sm-2-concerts/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''S&M2'' went on to earn $5.5&nbsp;million at the box office, making it the biggest global rock event cinema release of all time; a second screening was later announced for October 30 as a result.<ref>{{cite news|last=Jones|first=Damian|title=Metallica's 'S&M2' live concert film is returning to cinemas for one night only|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-sm2-concert-film-returning-to-cinemas-2557928|work=[[NME]]|date=October 16, 2019|access-date=October 27, 2019|archive-date=September 18, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200918075921/https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-sm2-concert-film-returning-to-cinemas-2557928|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Rolli|first=Bryan|title=Metallica Smashes Global Box Office Record With 'S&M2'|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/bryanrolli/2019/10/17/metallica-scores-biggest-global-rock-event-cinema-release-with-sm/#5c54411870cd|work=[[Forbes]]|date=October 17, 2019|access-date=October 27, 2019|archive-date=October 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191025085800/https://www.forbes.com/sites/bryanrolli/2019/10/17/metallica-scores-biggest-global-rock-event-cinema-release-with-sm/#5c54411870cd|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Childers|first=Chad|title=Metallica 'S&M2' Becomes Largest Global Rock Event Cinema Release|url=https://loudwire.com/metallica-sm2-largest-global-rock-event-cinema-release-new-screenings/|work=[[Loudwire]]|date=October 16, 2019|access-date=October 27, 2019|archive-date=October 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191027020223/https://loudwire.com/metallica-sm2-largest-global-rock-event-cinema-release-new-screenings/|url-status=live}}</ref> In August 2020, the band announced that they would release the ''S&M2'' performances as an album, DVD and box set.<ref>{{Cite magazine|last1=Grow|first1=Kory|date=June 11, 2020|title=Metallica's Lars Ulrich Teases 'S&M2' Box Set on Kimmel|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/metallicas-lars-ulrich-sm2-box-set-1013659/|access-date=July 23, 2020|magazine=Rolling Stone|language=en-US|archive-date=July 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200724171649/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/metallicas-lars-ulrich-sm2-box-set-1013659/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=June 13, 2020|title=Metallica announce 'S&M2' live album and concert film release|url=https://chaospin.com/lars-ulrich-reveals-metallica-new-sm2-box-set/|access-date=July 23, 2020|website=chaospin.com|language=en-GB|archive-date=June 14, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200614153222/https://chaospin.com/lars-ulrich-reveals-metallica-new-sm2-box-set/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In July 2019, Metallica announced a set of South American tour dates for April 2020 with [[Greta Van Fleet]] in support.<ref>{{cite news|title=METALLICA Announces April 2020 South American Stadium Tour With GRETA VAN FLEET|url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-announces-april-2020-south-american-stadium-tour-with-greta-van-fleet/|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=August 14, 2019|access-date=August 19, 2019|archive-date=August 20, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190820191413/http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-announces-april-2020-south-american-stadium-tour-with-greta-van-fleet/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Kaufman|first=Spencer|title=Metallica announce 2020 South American tour with Greta Van Fleet|url=https://consequence.net/2019/08/metallica-2020-south-american-tour-greta-van-fleet/|work=[[Consequence of Sound]]|date=August 15, 2019|access-date=August 19, 2019|archive-date=August 19, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819103646/https://consequence.net/2019/08/metallica-2020-south-american-tour-greta-van-fleet/|url-status=live}}</ref> In September, ahead of that year's [[Global Citizen Festival]], it was announced that Metallica would perform at the following year's festival in September 2020 alongside artists such as [[Billie Eilish]], [[Miley Cyrus]] and [[Coldplay]], in what would be the final event of [[Global Poverty Project]]'s year-long Global Goal Live: The Possible Dream campaign.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Ehlrich|first=Brenna|title=Metallica, Billie Eilish, Miley Cyrus to Play 10-Hour Worldwide Concert|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/metallica-billie-eilish-miley-cyrus-and-more-global-citizen-891160|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|date=September 26, 2019|access-date=September 30, 2019|archive-date=September 29, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190929082019/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/metallica-billie-eilish-miley-cyrus-and-more-global-citizen-891160/|url-status=live}}</ref> The following day, on September 27, Metallica announced that Hetfield had re-entered a rehabilitation program and that its Australia/New Zealand tour would be postponed.<ref name="HetfieldNME">{{cite news|last=Lavin|first=Will|title=Metallica postpones upcoming tour as James Hetfield returns to rehab|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-postpones-upcoming-tour-as-james-hetfield-returns-to-rehab-2552046|work=[[NME]]|date=September 28, 2019|access-date=September 28, 2019|archive-date=September 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190928135102/https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-postpones-upcoming-tour-as-james-hetfield-returns-to-rehab-2552046|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="HetfieldCR">{{cite news|last=Lewry|first=Fraser|title=Metallica cancel tour as James Hetfield returns to rehab|url=https://www.loudersound.com/news/metallica-cancel-tour-as-james-hetfield-returns-to-rehab|work=[[Classic Rock (magazine)|Classic Rock]]|date=September 28, 2019|access-date=September 28, 2019|archive-date=September 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190928080456/https://www.loudersound.com/news/metallica-cancel-tour-as-james-hetfield-returns-to-rehab|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Hetfieldnews">{{cite news|last=Bond|first=Nick|title='Devastated' Metallica cancel Australian stadium tour as frontman enters rehab|url=https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/music/tours/devastated-metallica-cancel-australian-stadium-tour-as-frontman-enters-rehab/news-story/c357f8b3c5cb5b62ff1a36a27133d679|work=[[news.com.au]]|date=September 28, 2019|access-date=September 28, 2019|archive-date=September 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190928130140/https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/music/tours/devastated-metallica-cancel-australian-stadium-tour-as-frontman-enters-rehab/news-story/c357f8b3c5cb5b62ff1a36a27133d679|url-status=live}}</ref> In a statement by Ulrich, Hammett and Trujillo, the band spoke of the devastation of the news, saying that Hetfield "[had] been struggling with addiction on and off for many years" and that all tickets would be fully refunded.<ref name="HetfieldNME"/><ref name="HetfieldCR"/><ref name="Hetfieldnews"/> Ulrich later added that Hetfield was "in the process of healing himself", and that the band hoped to return to Australia and New Zealand in 2020.<ref>{{cite news|last=Trendell|first=Andrew|title=Metallica's Lars Ulrich shares update on James Hetfield's rehab recovery|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallicas-lars-ulrich-shares-update-james-hetfields-recovery-rehab-2556966|work=[[NME]]|date=October 14, 2019|access-date=October 27, 2019|archive-date=October 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191027020224/https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallicas-lars-ulrich-shares-update-james-hetfields-recovery-rehab-2556966|url-status=live}}</ref> The band's other commitments, including a benefit concert in March 2020, were still expected to continue as planned;<ref name="HetfieldNME"/> a further five US festival appearances were announced in October.<ref>{{cite news|last=Moore|first=Sam|title=Metallica are headlining five major US festivals next year|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-headlining-five-major-us-festivals-next-year-2556132|work=[[NME]]|date=October 10, 2019|access-date=October 27, 2019|archive-date=October 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191011040530/https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-headlining-five-major-us-festivals-next-year-2556132|url-status=live}}</ref> These shows were later postponed or cancelled due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] and to support Hetfield's recovery.<ref>{{cite news|last=Daly|first=Rhian|title=Metallica cancel festival dates to support James Hetfield's recovery|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-cancel-festival-dates-support-james-hetfield-recovery-2614048|work=[[NME]]|date=February 24, 2020|access-date=July 1, 2020|archive-date=July 17, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200717013521/https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-cancel-festival-dates-support-james-hetfield-recovery-2614048|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Bourbon & Beyond, Hometown Rising, Louder Than Life all canceled this year|url=https://www.wlky.com/article/hometown-rising-louder-than-life-bourbon-and-beyond-all-canceled-this-year/32270764|work=[[WLKY]]|date=April 24, 2020|access-date=July 1, 2020|archive-date=July 2, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200702024449/https://www.wlky.com/article/hometown-rising-louder-than-life-bourbon-and-beyond-all-canceled-this-year/32270764|url-status=live}}</ref>

In March 2020, the band began a series on YouTube and Facebook called ''#MetallicaMondays'', where they streamed full archived shows every Monday to relieve boredom while staying home and social distancing amid the pandemic.<ref>{{cite web|title=#MetallicaMondays: Free, Weekly Concert Streaming Series {{!}} Metallica.com {{!}} Metallica.com|url=https://www.metallica.com/news/2020-03-27-metallica-mondays.html|work=metallica.com|access-date=July 18, 2020|archive-date=July 18, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200718035907/https://www.metallica.com/news/2020-03-27-metallica-mondays.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Trapp|first=Philip|title=Metallica to Stream Full Live Shows Each Monday, Watch the First One|url=https://loudwire.com/metallica-mondays-streaming-live-concerts/|work=[[Loudwire]]|access-date=July 18, 2020|archive-date=August 18, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818195231/https://loudwire.com/metallica-mondays-streaming-live-concerts/|url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2020, while in quarantine, Metallica performed a virtual acoustic version of "[[Blackened (song)|Blackened]]",<ref>{{Cite web|last=May 2020|first=Richard Bienstock 04|title=Metallica share stripped-down acoustic reworking of Blackened in quarantine|url=https://www.guitarworld.com/news/metallica-share-stripped-down-acoustic-reworking-of-blackened-in-quarantine|access-date=July 17, 2020|website=guitarworld|date=May 4, 2020|language=en|archive-date=August 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808091214/https://www.guitarworld.com/news/metallica-share-stripped-down-acoustic-reworking-of-blackened-in-quarantine|url-status=live}}</ref> titled "Blackened 2020", which was later made available for download.<ref>{{Cite web|date=May 15, 2020|title=METALLICA: 'Blackened 2020' erschienen|url=https://www.rockhard.de/artikel/metallica-blackened-2020-erschienen_508953.html|website=ROCK HARD Heavy-Metal-Magazin|language=de|access-date=July 17, 2020|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806223150/https://www.rockhard.de/artikel/metallica-blackened-2020-erschienen_508953.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

In an interview with [[Marc Benioff]] in April 2020, Ulrich stated that Metallica could work on its next studio album while in quarantine.<ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica Could Make New Album In Quarantine, Says Lars Ulrich|url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-could-make-new-album-in-quarantine-says-lars-ulrich/|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=July 1, 2019|access-date=July 1, 2019|archive-date=April 29, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200429145818/https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-could-make-new-album-in-quarantine-says-lars-ulrich/|url-status=live}}</ref> Trujillo told ''The Vinyl Guide'' in June that the band was "excited about cultivating new ideas" for its new album. "We communicate every week, which is really great, so we have our connection intact. And what we've started doing is basically just really concentrating on our home studios and being creative from our homes and navigating through ideas and building on new ideas. And that's where we're at right now". He also said that the band was working towards eventually entering a studio to record the album.<ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica Is 'Excited About Cultivating New Ideas' While In Quarantine, Says Robert Trujillo|url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-is-excited-about-cultivating-new-ideas-while-in-quarantine-says-robert-trujillo/|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=June 30, 2020|access-date=July 1, 2020|archive-date=July 2, 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200702010900/https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-is-excited-about-cultivating-new-ideas-while-in-quarantine-says-robert-trujillo/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On August 10, 2020, Metallica played a show at Gundlach-Bundschu Winery in [[Sonoma, California]], which was only attended by a few crew members, and it was recorded and played for drive-in movies across the U.S. and Canada on August 29.<ref>{{cite news|title=Metallica's Drive-In Concert Was Secretly Filmed At Northern California Winery|url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallicas-drive-in-concert-was-secretly-filmed-at-northern-california-winery/|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=August 29, 2020|access-date=January 11, 2021|archive-date=January 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210119184318/https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/metallicas-drive-in-concert-was-secretly-filmed-at-northern-california-winery/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In May 2021, the band announced that they would do one more ''#MetallicaMondays'' on May 24 to benefit their All Within My Hands Foundation.<ref name="hadusek">{{cite web|last=Hadusek|first=Jon|title=Metallica Bring Back #MetallicaMondays for One Night, Tease "#BlackAlbum2021"|url=https://consequence.net/2021/05/metallica-mondays-black-album-teaser/|work=[[Consequence of Sound]]|date=May 21, 2021|access-date=May 21, 2021|archive-date=May 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210521211440/https://consequence.net/2021/05/metallica-mondays-black-album-teaser/|url-status=live}}</ref> The concert dates to September 6, 2018, in [[Lincoln, Nebraska]].<ref name="hadusek"/> On Labor Day, September 6, 2021, the band's All Within My Hands Foundation raised $377,450. Metallica teamed up with workwear brand Carhartt on the initiative, with the clothing brand donating all of their sales proceeds on the holiday to the band's Metallica Scholars initiative, which provides opportunities to people interested in pursuing essential workforce jobs.<ref>{{Cite magazine|last=Kaufman|first=Gil|title=Metallica Celebrate Raising $377,000 For Metallica Scholars Initiative|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/9626007/metallica-raise-thousands-metallica-scholars-initiative/|date=September 8, 2021|access-date=September 8, 2021|magazine=Billboard|archive-date=September 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210911132855/https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/9626007/metallica-raise-thousands-metallica-scholars-initiative/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On November 28, 2022, the band released the single "[[Lux Æterna (Metallica song)|Lux Æterna]]".<ref>{{cite web|first=Joe|last=DiVita|url=https://loudwire.com/metallica-72-seasons-album-lux-aeterna-song/|title=Metallica Announce New Album '72 Seasons', Debut Old School Sounding Song 'Lux Aeterna'|work=[[Loudwire]]|date=November 28, 2022|access-date=May 8, 2023|archive-date=January 25, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230125165201/https://loudwire.com/metallica-72-seasons-album-lux-aeterna-song/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Keenan|last=Hesher|url=https://www.metalsucks.net/2022/11/28/not-a-drill-metallica-have-a-new-album-coming-next-february-first-single-lux-aeterna-out-now/|title=Not A Drill: Metallica Have a New Album Coming Next February, First Single "Lux Aeterna" Out Now|work=[[MetalSucks]]|date=November 28, 2022|access-date=November 28, 2022|archive-date=November 28, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221128153224/https://www.metalsucks.net/2022/11/28/not-a-drill-metallica-have-a-new-album-coming-next-february-first-single-lux-aeterna-out-now/|url-status=live}}</ref> On January 19, 2023, Metallica released the second single titled "[[Screaming Suicide]]".<ref>{{cite web|first=Alex|last=Gallagher|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-new-single-screaming-suicide-3384034|title=Metallica confront taboos on new single 'Screaming Suicide': "It's a human experience, we should be able to talk about it"|work=[[NME]]|date=January 20, 2023|access-date=May 8, 2023|archive-date=September 16, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916132713/https://www.nme.com/news/music/metallica-new-single-screaming-suicide-3384034|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Allison|last=Hussey|url=https://pitchfork.com/news/metallica-share-video-for-new-song-screaming-suicide-watch/|title=Metallica Share Video for New Song "Screaming Suicide": Watch|work=[[Pitchfork (website)|Pitchfork]]|date=January 19, 2023|access-date=January 22, 2023|archive-date=January 20, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230120010643/https://pitchfork.com/news/metallica-share-video-for-new-song-screaming-suicide-watch/|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 1, 2023, Metallica released the third single titled "If Darkness Had a Son".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-previews-new-song-if-darkness-had-a-son|title=Metallica Previews New Song 'If Darkness Had A Son'|work=[[Blabbermouth.net]]|date=February 28, 2023|access-date=May 8, 2023|archive-date=September 16, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916132617/https://blabbermouth.net/news/metallica-previews-new-song-if-darkness-had-a-son|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Simon|last=Young|url=https://www.loudersound.com/news/metallica-to-release-if-darkness-had-a-son-on-march-1|title=Metallica to release If Darkness Had a Son on March 1|work=[[Metal Hammer]]|date=February 28, 2023|access-date=May 8, 2023|archive-date=September 16, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916132611/https://www.loudersound.com/news/metallica-to-release-if-darkness-had-a-son-on-march-1|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 30, 2023, Metallica released a music video for the album's title track, "72 Seasons".<ref>{{cite web|first=Merlin|last=Alderslade|url=https://www.loudersound.com/news/metallica-72-seasons-video|title=Listen to the title track from new Metallica album 72 Seasons, alongside a brand new video|work=[[Metal Hammer]]|date=March 31, 2023|access-date=May 8, 2023|archive-date=September 16, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916132644/https://www.loudersound.com/news/metallica-72-seasons-video|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Emily|last=Carter|url=https://www.kerrang.com/metallica-have-just-released-72-seasons-awesome-title-track/|title=Metallica have just released 72 Seasons' awesome title-track|work=[[Kerrang!]]|date=March 30, 2023|access-date=May 8, 2023|archive-date=September 16, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916132619/https://www.kerrang.com/metallica-have-just-released-72-seasons-awesome-title-track|url-status=live}}</ref> The band released their eleventh studio album ''[[72 Seasons]]'' on April 14, 2023.<ref>{{cite web|first=Chuck|last=Armstrong|url=https://loudwire.com/photos-metallica-celebrate-release-new-album-72-seasons/|title=Photos – This Is What the Release of Metallica's New Album, '72 Seasons,' Looked Like|work=[[Loudwire]]|date=April 20, 2023|access-date=May 8, 2023|archive-date=September 16, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916132613/https://loudwire.com/photos-metallica-celebrate-release-new-album-72-seasons/|url-status=live}}</ref> Metallica promoted the album with a two-and-a-half-year-long tour, titled the [[M72 World Tour]], which began on April 27, 2023, in Amsterdam and is set to conclude on December 6, 2025, in Abu Dhabi.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Aswad|first1=Jem|title=Metallica Announces New Album, '72 Seasons,' and Two-Year World Tour|url=https://variety.com/2022/music/news/metallica-new-album-72-seasons-world-tour-1235443111/|website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|date=November 28, 2022|access-date=May 23, 2024|archive-date=November 28, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221128152514/https://variety.com/2022/music/news/metallica-new-album-72-seasons-world-tour-1235443111/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|first=Sarah|last=Downs|url=https://au.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/metallica-2025-tour-australia-new-zealand-tickets-68312/|title=Metallica Confirms 2025 Tour Dates for Australia and New Zealand|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|date=October 23, 2024|access-date=October 23, 2024|archive-date=November 7, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241107193726/https://au.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/metallica-2025-tour-australia-new-zealand-tickets-68312/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Metallica to perform at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix|url=http://arnnewscentre.ae/news/entertainment/metallica-to-perform-at-2025-abu-dhabi-grand-prix |date=April 22, 2025|access-date=May 10, 2025|website=ARN News Centre|language=en}}</ref>

===2023–present: Future plans===
In an interview on ''Loudwire Nights'' radio program in April 2023, Ulrich stated that "there [were] some ideas [Metallica] could start with" for the follow-up to ''72 Seasons'', adding, "I'm looking forward to going live and being in sharing mode for the next couple of years. The beauty of being with these guys, I kind of joke, James writes more riffs when he's tuning his guitar than most people do in a lifetime. That's the beauty of being in band with these guys and I'm eternally grateful. I'm dumbfounded by it." When asked about "leftovers" that could be used for the next Metallica album, Ulrich said, "There's always a few riffs in the riff tank."<ref>{{cite web|first=Joe|last=DiVita|url=https://loudwire.com/lars-ulrich-metallica-have-ideas-to-start-next-album/|title=Lars Ulrich on the NEXT Metallica Album - 'There Are Some Ideas'|work=[[Loudwire]]|date=April 14, 2023|access-date=May 23, 2024|archive-date=September 16, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240916132619/https://loudwire.com/lars-ulrich-metallica-have-ideas-to-start-next-album/|url-status=live}}</ref> In May 2024, Hetfield confirmed that he has been "writing lots of music, playing guitar pretty much every day."<ref>{{cite web|first=Joe|last=DiVita|url=https://loudwire.com/metallica-james-hetfield-writing-music/|title=James Hetfield Has Been Writing 'Lots of Music' Between Tours|work=[[Loudwire]]|date=May 22, 2024|access-date=May 23, 2024|archive-date=May 23, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240523003623/https://loudwire.com/metallica-james-hetfield-writing-music/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In a March 2025 interview with ''[[Rolling Stone]]'', Hammett confirmed that he has been working on ideas for the next Metallica album: "I have 767 new ones for the next album. It is such a nightmare going through this stuff, too. And I'm the one responsible for all of it and I can't do it...I don't foresee us starting the next album for at least another year because we're still finishing the tour."<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Brian|last=Hiatt|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/kirk-hammett-book-solo-album-metallica-podcast-interview-1235301767/|title=Kirk Hammett Has a Solo LP Coming — and 767 New Riffs for Metallica|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|date=March 23, 2025|access-date=April 24, 2025}}</ref>