Metallica Perform Guitar-Centric Version of the National Anthem at NBA Finals

2015-06-17

Story by Cat Badra

Metallica put their own twist on the national anthem during the NBA finals

Many musicians and bands have been tapped to perform the national anthem at sporting events, but Metallica put their own unique spin on the patriotic song at Sunday night’s (June 14) NBA Finals. Frontman James Hetfield and guitarist Kirk Hammett performed an instrumental version of the national anthem right before the game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and their hometown team, the Golden State Warriors, and the rendition offered plenty of distortion and guitar crunch. The NBA posted a video of Metallica’s “The Star-Spangled Banner” via YouTube.

The Golden State Warriors won, so maybe Metallica’s performance was just the inspiration they needed.

This isn’t Metallica’s first NBA appearance this season. The guys also performed this year at the San Fransisco Giants’ “Metallica Day” and San Jose Sharks’ “Metallica Night.” They also performed at a different sporting event earlier this year: the X Games in Austin, Texas.

In other Metallica news, the guys have a busy August planned, with gigs at Lollapalooza in Chicago, as well as in Norway, Sweden, Russia and the U.K. For a full list of upcoming tour dates, visit the band’s official website.

Watch Metallica Perform the National Anthem:

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Cat Badra

Meet the expert - Cat Badra is a music writer for Audio Ink Radio and a range of other music, sports and lifestyle publications. She's a graduate of Michigan State University with a master's degree in theater and speech. Contact her at cat@audioinkradio.com.