Metallica Rocks Inglewood with Nostalgic Setlist and Heartfelt Philanthropy at Benefit Concert

In a night filled with musical nostalgia and heartfelt giving, Metallica graced the stage for their annual Helping Hands benefit concert on Friday at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California. The heavy metal icons surprised fans with an electrifying setlist that featured a mix of long-forgotten rarities, beloved covers, and classic hits, showcasing their continued evolution as musicians while giving back to the community. The evening opened with an acoustic rendition of "Low Man's Lyric" from their 1997 album, Reload, marking a significant moment as it was the first time the band had performed the track since 1998. This set the tone for a concert that would be both reflective and celebratory. Following this, the audience was treated to a nostalgic cover of Diamond Head's "Helpless," which had not been played since 2018, as well as a debut performance of Bachman-Turner Overdrive's "Away From Home," leaving fans exhilarated by the band's willingness to explore deeper cuts and lesser-known tracks from their repertoire. The concert seamlessly blended moments of quiet introspection with dynamic electric performances. The first set closed with an acoustic take on "If Darkness Had a Son" from their latest album, 72 Seasons, and the universally loved "Nothing Else Matters," both enhanced by the rich sound of a string section. This blend of acoustic and electric elements created an intimate atmosphere while highlighting the band's versatility. Transitioning into the electric set, Metallica reignited the crowd's energy with "The Unforgiven II," which hadn’t been played since 2015. The audience also experienced a fresh rendition of "Fuel," alongside iconic tracks like "Orion," "Until It Sleeps," and "Screaming Suicide." A notable moment of the night came when Pearl Jam's Jeff Ament joined the band onstage for "Hit the Lights," merging the legacies of two of rock's most significant acts. The concert culminated in a powerful performance of "Master of Puppets," a track synonymous with the band's legacy, leaving the audience with a resounding reminder of Metallica's enduring impact on the rock genre. As fans relished in the setlist, the band revealed that the entire concert would be available for viewing on YouTube starting December 19, allowing fans worldwide to relive the special night. Beyond the music, the Helping Hands benefit concert underscores Metallica's commitment to philanthropy. Proceeds from the event support the All With My Hands Foundation, aimed at enriching the lives of the communities that have long supported the band. This initiative resonates deeply with fans, offering them a chance to contribute to meaningful causes while enjoying a night of exceptional musical artistry. As Metallica wrapped up their final show of 2024, they hinted at an exciting return to the road in April 2025 for a North American tour, which promises to include a combination of arenas, stadiums, and festival stops. For fans, the anticipation for their next chapter is already building, fueled by the unforgettable experience of a night that celebrated both music and generosity.