Alice in Chains guitarist “kind of talked” with Metallica frontman about writing together; musicians shared the stage several times
There are several episodes that show the connection between Metallica and Alice in Chains. The first band was present in the public that watched the recording of the MTV Unplugged the second, in 1996. Two years later, the guitarist Jerry Cantrell played a version of “Tuesday’s Gone” (Lynyrd Skynyrd) recorded by the thrash metal group on the covers album Garage Inc..
The collaborations on stage are also varied. Cantrell has participated in Metallica shows on occasions such as 1994, 1998 and 2011 — in the latter, when the band celebrated its 30th anniversary in a series of performances in its hometown of San Francisco. The Alice in Chains member was even alongside James Hetfield during a rare solo performance by the frontman, at the Acoustic 4 a Cure benefit event, in 2014.
In turn, Hetfield also made a rare appearance at an Alice in Chains concert in 2006. On that occasion, he sang “Would?” at the Rock am Ring festival in 2006.
With so many partnerships, why not set up a project together? Cantrell heard this question during an interview with Metal Hammer — and, in response, confessed to having discussed the possibility with Hetfield. He states (via Igor Miranda website):
“James and I have talked about it… we kind of have. We never had a formal conversation, but I played with him at his house. Kirk [Hammett, guitarrista do Metallica]. I even spent a few nights at his house with guitars in the kitchen and on the porch. It’s something I would be really curious about, even if it was just writing a song with him.”
There’s just one problem: Metallica takes up a lot of James’ time. Jerry comments:
“If it would turn into something more than that… he has a very demanding formal job. Ha ha! So I would understand if that never happened.”
What makes James Hetfield so incredible, according to Jerry Cantrell
In addition to being a friend, Jerry Cantrell is a big fan of James Hetfield. In another interview with the same media outlet, the guitarist of Alice in Chains highlighted the colleague Metallica as one of the greatest rock/metal vocalists in history.
He also explained what makes him so incredible. He said:
“What makes James a great vocalist is his physical presence. No one else commands the same kind of respect and attention without being selfish or self-centered. With him, it’s all about the music; all about fun, celebration and connecting with fans. And that to me is really inspiring. Especially because he’s been doing this for so long and he’s been at the top of his game for so long, but he continues to search for a deeper meaning.”
Metallica and Alice in Chains — or rather, Jerry Cantrell — in 2025
THE Metallica remains busy in 2025 with his tour M72which takes two shows with different repertoires to the same city. Between April and June, the band will tour North America. In November, it’s Oceania’s turn. There are rumors that the group will come to South America between this year and next, but there is no official confirmation.
In turn, the Alice in Chains There are only three confirmed shows for 2025, all in May and only at festivals. Jerry Cantrell Take advantage of this time to go on a solo tour, promoting the album I Want Blood. After having even passed through Brazil last November, the guitarist tours North America between January and March, heading to Europe in June.
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Source: Rollingstone
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
