Kirk Hammett recently shared his thoughts on playing Metallica’s music during an appearance on The Metallica Report podcast, expressing that he doesn’t find it particularly challenging.
“I know people might not like this, but Metallica’s music isn’t difficult for me to play,” the guitarist remarked. “Playing bebop, now that’s tough. Jazz progressions where there’s a chord change every beat, that’s the real challenge.”
Hammett explained that he finds bebop jazz challenging because of its complex soloing techniques and intricate music theory. “Learning to solo over those progressions is mind-bending. That’s where my focus is—on studying great classic solos, understanding the theory behind them, and analyzing the musical approach. Metallica’s music, I’ve been playing it for 40 years, so it’s naturally easier for me as a guitarist.”
The Guitarist’s Appreciation for Sophisticated Music
In a 2021 interview with Guitar World, Hammett discussed his approach to writing music for Metallica and his sources of inspiration. He emphasized his love for technically advanced music, such as jazz, bossa nova, and classical pieces with complex chords.
“I habitually listen to technically sophisticated music. Jazz, bossa nova, classical—I enjoy hearing complex chords like sixes, ninths, and elevenths. I constantly seek musical moments that evoke emotions or feelings, where everything aligns perfectly to convey that emotion. I strive to create those moments in Metallica’s music.”
Hammett also credited Lars Ulrich for introducing him to a new approach for guitar solos on Metallica’s album ‘Hardwired…to Self-Destruct.’ This method involves playing through measures rather than adhering strictly to the beat, allowing for more fluid and expressive phrasing.
“Ulrich’s concept lets you play more freely and expressively, which has influenced my soloing approach significantly,” Hammett added.
