When I first read that Metallica founder and frontman James Hetfield was leaving the band and going country I was honestly surprised but then it occurred to me that there have been plenty of rockers that made the leap before him so it’s not that far of a stretch.
According to a report published last month in Heavier Metal, an online Heavy Metal news publication, Hetfield’s plans to go country been in the works for “a long time”. In a statement, Hetfield said it was “time to move on and get back to my country roots”. He is expected to release his debut album in June and make his first appearance at the Grand Ole’ Opry in July.
Early reports say the album, to be called Hetfield Road, was recorded in the fall and features guest appearances from Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Phil Anselmo, and Eminem.
The album will come with a pack of cigarettes and a bottle of whiskey, according to a press release. There will also be a “VIP edition” of the album available which comes with 100% authentic tears shed by Hetfield while he recorded his upcoming single “My wife left me and my dog died”.
Here’s a taste of Metallica’s first foray into Country Music with the song “Mama Said” from the 1996 album Load.
