Metallica frontman James Hetfield shares his inspiration for playing guitar for the first time: My guitars are ‘the conduit from my higher power through my body’
METALLICA’s James Hetfield doesn’t just play guitars; for him, they are the conduits connecting his higher power to the world through his very being. In a recent episode of “The Metallica Report,” a podcast delving into all things METALLICA, Hetfield discussed his latest venture, “Messengers: The Guitars Of James Hetfield.” This 400-page opus, released on November 21 via Permuted Press, delves into Hetfield’s personal collection of cherished guitars, unraveling the tales and significance behind each instrument that has been a companion on his journey as the frontman, guitarist, and songwriter for the iconic band.
Explaining the motivation behind the book, Hetfield shared, “Having explored artistic avenues outside of music with my car book, ‘Reclaimed Rust,’ the idea of a guitar book naturally followed. ‘Reclaimed Rust’ made me think, ‘Why not share these treasures in my garage with the world or compile them in one easily accessible book, allowing me to reminisce without having to open countless guitar cases or garage doors?'”
As for the intriguing title, “Messengers,” Hetfield reflected, “I had numerous title ideas before settling on ‘Messengers.’ It just felt right. My guitars serve as messengers from my higher power, channeling through my body, digestion, brain, fingers, into the guitar, through an amp, and into your ears. It’s a profound link—a messenger. All the guitars, especially the early ones with names like OGV, So What, So Fucking What, Eet Fuk, and others, hold stories. They’re named, much like my cars. Creating a guitar book? Absolutely fantastic.”
Sharing his experience at the recent “Messengers” book-signing sessions in St. Louis and Detroit, Hetfield described it as “feel-good” and heartwarming. “People expressed their gratitude, and I reciprocated. Witnessing multiple generations present was special. I never attended gigs with my parents, but my older brother introduced me to my first concerts—an unforgettable memory. Seeing the intergenerational connections, whether a child bringing a parent or vice versa, fills me with gratitude to be part of that legacy.”
In “Messengers: The Guitars Of James Hetfield,” Hetfield lays bare the emotional and technical facets of the instruments that have defined his unique musical odyssey. From exotic guitars to vintage Gibsons and custom one-offs, the book unveils the secrets behind the tools that have sculpted Hetfield’s tone, created his sound, and played a pivotal role in shaping his musical identity.