Kirk Hammett's Song of Choice: A Blast from the Past
A musician's legacy is often defined by their most iconic hits, but what if their personal favorite is an unexpected deep cut?
In a surprising twist, Kirk Hammett, the legendary guitarist of Metallica, revealed his choice for the song he wants to be remembered by, and it's not the chart-toppers you might expect. In a 2015 survey by Guitar World, Hammett chose 'Motorbreath', a track from Metallica's raw and relentless debut album, 'Kill 'Em All' (1983).
But here's where it gets intriguing: Hammett's selection wasn't a chart-topping single or a fan-favorite ballad. It was a song that harkens back to the band's early days, when they were hungry, aggressive, and had something to prove. 'Motorbreath' is a high-octane, in-your-face metal anthem, clocking in at just over three minutes, a far cry from the epic ballads and stadium anthems Metallica would later become known for.
Hammett's reasoning? "It has the breakneck tempo we were so fond of in our early days... And unlike the songs we wrote later, 'Motorbreath' is under four minutes long!" This choice reflects Hammett's appreciation for the raw energy and unfiltered passion of Metallica's early sound, before they became a household name.
This decision might spark debate among fans. Some might argue that Hammett's most memorable work lies in the band's later, more refined material. But this is the part most people miss: 'Motorbreath' represents a time when Metallica was still an upstart band, unburdened by the expectations of fame and commercial success. It's a snapshot of their youthful vigor and unadulterated love for metal.
The song, written by James Hetfield with Cliff Burton on bass, is a relentless assault of riffs and attitude, influenced by Motörhead and hardcore punk. Hammett's playing on the track is all about raw power, locking in with drummer Lars Ulrich to create a speed metal masterpiece. And while Metallica's sound evolved over the years, 'Motorbreath' remains a beloved staple in their live sets, even decades later.
So, what does this choice say about Hammett's musical journey and the band's evolution? Is it a nostalgic nod to simpler times, or a reminder of the raw, unfiltered essence of Metallica's sound? You decide. Share your thoughts in the comments: Is 'Motorbreath' a fitting choice for Hammett's legacy, or do you think another song better represents his iconic career?
