June 16, 2026, marks the 16th anniversary of​ the‍ inaugural Big Four concert⁢ in Warsaw,‍ Poland-a landmark‌ event that brought together Metallica, Megadeth, slayer, and Anthrax on one stage for the first time. Too commemorate ⁢this milestone, we revisit a‌ feature from the Guitar World archives, originally published in the November 2011 issue.

During our visit to Milan, Italy, on July 6,⁢ for the Big ⁢Four cover shoot featuring Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax, we faced a race against⁢ time to gather everyone for the⁣ cover photo.

Unfortunately,due to travel delays,Metallica’s guitarists james Hetfield and Kirk Hammett missed ⁤the roundtable discussion with Slayer’s Kerry king,Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine,and Anthrax’s Scott Ian that took place earlier ⁢that day.

After the‌ show, we finally caught up with Hetfield and Hammett, who engaged us in an animated​ conversation about the Big ⁣Four’s legacy, how drummer Lars ⁤Ulrich’s initial jitters contributed​ to the fastest hands in the business, and why Mustaine should be cautious during the Yankee Stadium ​performance.

In my earlier conversation with Kerry King,‌ Dave Mustaine, and Scott Ian, one thing was ⁤clear:⁤ none of them anticipated a “Big‍ Four”‍ tour ⁢would ever materialize.

James Hetfield: We were just as surprised!

Kirk ⁢Hammett: Absolutely. Back in the eighties, it felt like we were all in a race to outshine‍ each other.⁤ That competitive spirit lingered into the Nineties, but eventually, we matured and shifted our focus. As we age, our priorities evolve, ​and we began ⁤to appreciate the music more than the superficial aspects.

Hetfield: After three decades as a band,⁣ we’ve reached meaningful‍ milestones ​and want to​ celebrate them rather than shy‍ away. It’s crucial to highlight our scene. While⁤ the New Wave of British Heavy Metal gets⁣ a ‌lot⁤ of attention,the Bay Area thrash movement and the Big Four deserve recognition too. We hope ⁣these shows will leave a lasting impact on music history.

Metallica: Am I Evil? (Live w/ The big​ 4) [The Big 4: Live in Sofia, Bulgaria] ⁣ -‌ YouTube

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James, when I spoke with Scott ‍and Kerry, ⁣they mentioned that Lars was the first to propose the Big 4 tour, but Dave thought it was your ‌idea. Can you clarify?

Hetfield: I think it was my idea, but my memory isn’t the best, so Lars might have a different take‌ on it. [laughs]

Ultimately,​ it ⁢doesn’t matter who came up with it first; what matters ⁣is​ that it happened. it likely stemmed from discussions like, “Let’s do‌ a Bay Area show with the bands we grew up with.” Then someone suggested,”What about the Big 4?” Of course,Lars handled the business and logistics,but⁤ the idea originated from Metallica.

Dave expressed some concerns about‍ the ​tour, particularly wanting to‌ ensure that all‌ four bands performed on the same stage without being mixed in with other acts. Did you share those concerns?

Hetfield: Initially, we envisioned it as just the four of us. The ⁤first⁢ European dates had other bands, but they‌ were part of established festivals that ‍drew large crowds. It was a great prospect to include the Big 4. You can’t just drop bands‌ that are already scheduled. However, for the later ⁣shows in Indio and the recent European tour, it was just the Big 4, with maybe ​one opener.

Hammett: In some cases,promoters needed to add more ‌acts to ‌ensure financial viability. I ‍understand the economics, but what mattered⁢ most to me was that all four of us were on the⁢ same bill.

for Scott Ian, ‍a New York native, ‍performing at Yankee Stadium is monumental. Does that venue hold⁣ any special meaning for you?

Hammett: Not really. [laughs] I didn’t grasp its significance until Scott ⁤called me, practically hyperventilating.He was more excited than I’ve ever heard him, saying, [in a rough voice] – “You don’t understand! Yankee Stadium!”

Hetfield: For us, the connection is​ with [Yankee pitcher Mariano] Mo [Rivera]. For the last decade,he’s used Enter Sandman as his entrance music. ⁤He’s kept ⁢that song alive,especially in that stadium.

Even ​though‍ they’ve moved to a new stadium [across the street from the original Yankee Stadium, which closed in 2008], ‌it’s still a fantastic connection. That’s actually how we first announced the Big 4 show at Yankee Stadium. During a game, as the song started, they cut to a video I made where ‌I said, “Stop, stop!” and then announced the show. It ‍was a memorable moment.

Dave mentioned he’ll be turning 50 the day before the Yankee Stadium concert.Do you have any surprises planned?

Hetfield: [laughs] It’ll be a blast, and Dave should be ​on guard. [laughs] ‍ I’m ‌not revealing any details yet, but it’ll be ‍a celebration to ⁢remember. What better place to mark the occasion‌ than Yankee Stadium?

Metallica -⁤ Master of Puppets (Live) [The big 4: Live in Sofia, Bulgaria] – YouTube

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Reflecting‍ on the Big 4 Legacy: A Journey Through Time

James Hetfield: ‍ The term “Big 4” was first coined by the media in the 1980s. ⁣At that ⁤time, did you feel the same camaraderie with ⁢the other bands as you do now?

Hetfield: Not at all; that sense of unity developed gradually. In the 80s, there were countless bands, but very few‍ have lasted three decades. The “Big 4” label didn’t ​carry the same weight back then as it does today.

Kirk Hammett: In those early days, I only had relationships with Scott ​ [ian] and [anthrax drummer] ⁤Charlie [Benante]. I didn’t really connect with anyone from Slayer or Megadeth.⁤ Over time, that changed, and now I consider these guys my peers. I take great pride in what ‍we’ve all achieved together.

It’s also heartening to ‍see younger fans discovering Slayer and spreading the word. The legacy continues to grow. Experiencing all four bands together gives a fuller picture of⁢ what this scene is about.

Inspiration and Competition: The Early Days

Did you look to the other bands for inspiration in your guitar playing⁣ during‌ your formative⁣ years?

Hetfield: absolutely. There’s​ always been a competitive spirit within me. That competition‍ has been beneficial. Initially, it stemmed from a disdain for pop music and mainstream rock. When Slayer released a new track, it motivated us to respond with something even better.That competitive energy is still palpable during our Big 4 performances. Watching ⁣how well the other bands connect⁤ with the audience pushes us to elevate⁣ our game.

Crafting ​the Downpicking Technique

Scott mentioned that the‍ four of you ‍essentially pioneered the distinctive right-hand downpicking style.⁣ James,did you and Dave collaborate on that technique during Metallica’s early days?

Hetfield: It’s amusing that people want to pinpoint the​ origin of downpicking. ‌It’s like asking who invented music. Many punk bands were already using that technique.

The first time I noticed rapid downpicking was with Johnny Ramone, although he employed a different style. My‌ competition with ‌Dave also played a significant role. It was like, “Here’s a riff… Oh, you can’t play that!” And then he’d respond ⁣with an even faster riff. So,‌ the rivalry was ⁢not just between bands but also within them.

Hammett: I’d argue that Scott Ian is the master of alternate-picking rhythm. He executes it flawlessly and deserves more recognition.

As for downpicking, I was always aware of it. the first time I heard Black Sabbath’s ⁢ Paranoid in 1978, I​ thought, “Wow, he’s using all downstrokes.” Then I heard Symptom of the Universe and realized the same thing. The Ramones also showcased ⁣that technique.

During my⁣ time with Exodus, we had songs that featured‌ that fast downpicking‍ style. Many Bay Area ⁢bands were doing it back then, so it was nothing new‍ to me.

Fast-Paced Origins and Touring life

Hammett: We definitely​ kicked⁤ it up a notch, largely due to Lars. He was incredibly energetic and heavily influenced by bands like Motörhead‍ and Diamond Head, always aiming for speed.

In those early years, Lars was often nervous, and that anxiety would drive the tempos‍ up. Keeping pace with his nerves significantly influenced our fast downpicking technique. ‍ [laughs]

Speaking​ of ‌Gary Holt, he’s been filling in ⁤with Slayer while ⁤Jeff Hanneman recovers.⁣ Kirk, how does‌ it feel⁣ to reconnect with Gary on this tour?

Hammett: ‍ It’s fantastic to tour with gary again. We’ve rekindled our friendship and are reminiscing ‌about our high school days. It’s one of the ‍best aspects‍ of these recent Big 4 shows.

From Wild Youth to Family Life

Touring in the early days was often chaotic and filled with youthful ⁣antics.​ There’s that infamous story of Scott Ian and Cliff⁣ Burton causing mischief in London…

Hetfield: [laughs] Now it’s more like we’re just being silly.There⁢ was definitely some immature behavior back then, ⁣fueled by a lot of pent-up ⁤energy.‌ Personally, I’ve learned to channel that energy more effectively into our‌ music.

Watching my kid act out is still amusing, though. I wasn’t the instigator, but my wife caught me.‌ I have to tell my son, “Don’t do that again!” but it was hilarious. [laughs]

Hammett: For these‍ Big 4 shows, many of us have our​ families with us. So, the wild ⁤rock-and-roll party scene of 15 years ago has⁢ transformed. Now,it’s more about family time and​ dealing with the fatigue that comes with it. But without those responsibilities, it would be a party at every show.

Maintaining Sobriety and ‍the Evolution of Touring

Kerry mentioned that the party scene still follows him ‌closely.James, are you still abstaining⁤ from alcohol?

Hetfield: ​Yes, I’ve been sober for over a decade, which is fantastic. There are⁤ plenty of ⁢ways to enjoy life without the hangovers. I appreciate having my days clear and not feeling terrible.

That doesn’t stop those around⁣ me from enjoying themselves. They ‌have thier own‍ choices to make. I also embrace my individuality, so when they go out to party, I prefer‌ to sit it out. People can be quite annoying sometimes. [laughs]

As Metallica has grown, do you ever miss the days of touring in a van and handling your own gear?

Hammett: Not ​at all! [laughs] I have neck, back,‍ shoulder,‍ and knee issues‍ now.However, I do miss the simplicity ⁣of those early days. nowadays, organizing a show ⁤requires a lot of coordination and effort. I wish we could be more agile and‍ stealthy, but‍ we’re a well-established band​ now. What can you do? We’re like brontosauruses.

Hetfield: [laughs] ⁤ Usually, we’ll pile into a vehicle, take a short ⁢ride, and realize that’s enough. There’s so⁤ much in life that inspires us.Touring is still one of those​ things. Saying goodbye to family is tough, but once we’re out​ there, we crave that camaraderie, whether it’s jamming, writing, or just hanging out at HQ. We’re still‌ just a bunch⁤ of guys who need that time together.

The circle is smaller now,and the concept of a party ⁤has evolved. We do ​reminisce about‍ the past and​ what it meant to us, but we’re also creating⁣ our own “old days” right ⁢now. In ten years, ⁢we’ll look back and wonder why we⁤ spent so much time dwelling ​on the past. We’re making history now and enjoying every ⁤moment.

Engaging ​with the Fans and⁣ Pre-Show Rituals

James,I noticed you were enjoying yourself on the side of the stage during Megadeth’s set. Is that part of your routine?

Hetfield: Absolutely! I love catching the action‌ when I can. It’s great to arrive early and see what’s happening. It’s frustrating that I can’t stand there the ‍entire time, ‌but there are many other commitments during touring, like⁢ fan club events, interviews, and grabbing a meal.

Observing the crowd’s reaction is critically importent. ⁣It’s a good sign when the audience is⁤ engaged. We genuinely want everyone to succeed and feel the energy. When the crowd is against one of the Big 4, it’s disheartening. We’re all moving forward together, so it’s essential to‌ set aside any rivalry. Sure, you might prefer one band over another, but you’re witnessing history.

What are your⁣ pre-show rituals before stepping on stage for a Big 4 performance?

Hammett: I typically start with a chiropractor visit, followed by ‍yoga to center myself, and then I do guitar warm-ups. I have various ​exercises,⁢ mainly running through scales. This process takes time,especially the yoga part,as I ⁢need to unwind and ground⁤ my thoughts.

When I practice yoga before a show, my performance improves ⁣both⁢ mentally and physically.It ‌used ‌to be about taking a shot of vodka and going for it, ⁤but that approach⁢ doesn’t work anymore. Now, it’s more like, ‌”Let’s have a shot of espresso!” [laughs]

Hetfield: For‌ me, ​the vibe starts‌ with the meet-and-greet. ⁤It creates such a positive atmosphere to talk with fans, hear their ‌stories, and learn ‌how our‌ music ​has impacted their lives.Whether it’s meeting fans who introduce me to ‌their⁢ kids or a Make-A-Wish child,there’s always something uplifting about those interactions.

Then there’s the⁣ usual stuff, like grabbing a bite, stretching, and putting on ‌our performance gear, which is essentially just a different ‌black shirt. After that, we head to the tuning room. I go through my vocal warm-up tape to​ prepare. Then we gather in the jam room to shake off any rust. We all arrive at different times and check in with each other.

Rob [Trujillo] is always the first to arrive. He’s the⁢ quintessential bass player who loves​ to play. Sometimes, I’ll ⁤sit behind the drums, and we’ll mess⁤ around with some tunes. It’s always a ⁢good vibe, and we​ come ‍out feeling energized. Then it’s straight ‍to the stage.

As‌ we listen to the ⁣clint Eastwood‌ theme[[[[Ecstasy of Gold from Ennio Morricone’s soundtrack to The ‌Good, the Bad and the Ugly], we ⁢huddle up, and someone takes on the role of the‌ evening’s motivational speaker [laughs], ‌sharing jokes or⁢ memories from our last visit ‍to that city. We’re ⁢all human, and sometimes we need a little encouragement.When someone is feeling down, the rest of us come together to support them.

Milestones and Memorable Performances

These⁤ Big 4 shows are clearly significant for everyone involved. Can you ‍recall a specific performance from your early ​career that felt ‌like a benchmark?

Hetfield: I’d say our first performance at Day on the Green [in 1985 in Oakland, California]. I can’t even recall who else‍ played, maybe Yngwie Malmsteen and Y&T? What I do remember is‌ that we were there, with [original bassist] Cliff [Burton] in the band,‌ and it was a monumental occasion, especially for Kirk and Cliff, as it was​ their hometown‌ show.

Hammett: Absolutely. Those​ Day⁤ on the Green concerts had been happening since the early 70s, and I had ​seen ‍so ‌many bands perform ​there. One of my all-time favorite shows was day on⁢ the green in 1978, featuring AC/DC, Van Halen, Pat Travers, foreigner, and Aerosmith.

It was astonishing. I came away feeling so inspired that I played my guitar for days. Transitioning from being an audience member to performing ‍on that stage was surreal. After learning we‍ were booked to play there,⁤ I felt like I was⁤ walking on air for months. It truly felt like a milestone.

Hetfield: Another unforgettable show‍ was opening for Ozzy [in 1986].Performing in ⁤Moscow‍ with AC/DC and Pantera [in 1991] ⁢after the coup⁢ attempt against the Soviet Union was also surreal.

Then there was‌ our second gig ever, opening for Saxon. That was ​definitely a “We’ve made it”​ moment… after which we received our $19 pay,‍ hopped ⁤back into our constantly breaking-down Pacer, and drove home. [laughs]

But these moments continue to happen. ⁢Playing the Big 4 in Germany was the largest show we’ve done in 30 years. It’s astonishing to think that‌ after three decades, we’re still performing for larger audiences.

The Big 4 – Megadeth – Holy Wars…The Punishment Due

The Big 4: ⁢A Legacy of Metal at ‍Yankee ‍Stadium

Live⁤ Performance Highlight: Check out Megadeth’s electrifying performance ⁢of “Holy Wars…the Punishment due” from the Big 4 concert in sweden on July 3, 2011.

The Big 4 – Megadeth – Holy⁢ Wars…The punishment Due Live Sweden July 3 2011 HD‍ – YouTube

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Future of the⁢ big 4: What’s Next?

Hammett: Currently, Yankee Stadium is the last ‌confirmed Big 4 concert. Are there plans for⁤ additional dates?

Hammett: There are still many surf spots around the globe‌ I’d love to explore. [laughs] I think it would be amazing to take the Big 4 to‌ places like indonesia, Tahiti, the Maldives, and Tavarua. [laughs]

On⁣ a serious note, the atmosphere at‍ these shows is genuinely uplifting.⁣ we’ll ⁣do a series of Big 4 performances, take a break for a few months, and when we reconvene, it feels great to see everyone again.‍ It’s a fantastic experience​ for us, and I’m sure ‌many fans would love to catch the show. I won’t ⁤confirm ​anything, but I won’t rule it out either.

Hetfield: We’re uncertain about the future. Our focus is on covering the U.S.coasts for now. ‌After ⁣that, we need to shift our attention to writing a new album. As for more Big 4 shows, we never say never, especially since this‌ tour​ was something we never thought would happen in the first place.