Hetfield

Hetfield is James Hetfield (born August 3, 1963), American musician best known as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the heavy metal band Metallica, which he co-founded in 1981 with Lars Ulrich. As the band's primary lyricist and a principal songwriter, he has helped shape much of Metallica's sound, from early thrash-metal aggression to later, more mainstream hard rock-influenced albums.

Musical style: Hetfield's rhythm guitar work is characterized by down-tuned riffs, aggressive down-picking, and a focus on groove. He has used a variety of guitars and amplifiers over the decades and has contributed to production decisions for many Metallica records.

Career highlights: He contributed to Metallica's most commercially successful albums, including The Black Album (1991), and subsequent projects such as Load (1996), Reload (1997), St. Anger (2003), Death Magnetic (2008), Hardwired... to Self-Destruct (2016), and 72 Seasons (2023). His songwriting partnership with Ulrich has been central to the band's output across multiple decades.

Live performances: Hetfield is known for intense stage presence and a distinctive vocal delivery that blends aggressive shouting with melodic phrasing, reinforcing Metallica's commanding live identity.

Personal life and public life: Hetfield has publicly discussed struggles with alcohol use and has pursued sobriety. In 2009, Metallica was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with Hetfield recognized as a core member of the band.