James Hetfield, the frontman of Metallica, has always been known for his powerful and raw vocal style that aligns perfectly with the heavy metal genre. However, even he has his limits when it comes to the kind of music he enjoys. In a candid admission, Hetfield revealed that he cannot stand the music of Bob Seger, particularly highlighting his dislike for the song “Turn the Page.” Despite his aversion, Hetfield recognized the potential for Metallica to reimagine that track, stating, “Nothing against him, but every time I would hear those records on the radio, I would go, ‘Play some Aerosmith or something’. I would just turn it off. It would drive me up the wall.”
This reflection emerged as Metallica explored their creative boundaries through their 1998 album “Garage Inc.,” which features cover songs from various artists. Although Hetfield has described Seger’s sound as easy-listening music more suited for older generations, he acknowledged that “Turn the Page” resonates with the band’s experiences as musicians. He noted the connection between the song’s themes and their life as “road dogs.”
In transforming “Turn the Page,” Metallica infused their signature heavy riffs and guitar effects, particularly with Kirk Hammett’s wah-wah guitar that echoes the original saxophone line. This artistic decision not only paid homage to Seger but also allowed the band to maintain their identity. The move to cover songs from different genres reflects a desire to reinvent themselves, a message that would have undoubtedly pleased the late bassist Cliff Burton, known for his eclectic music taste that included artists like Kate Bush and R.E.M.
Ultimately, “Turn the Page” serves as a tribute to the shared struggles of touring musicians, illustrating the grueling and often lonely life on the road. Metallica’s adaptation retains the song’s essence while adding their intense energy, showcasing the band’s ability to bridge different musical styles while staying true to their roots. This willingness to push creative boundaries offers fans a glimpse of Metallica’s versatility and dedication to their craft.
With this connection to universal themes and their bold musical choices, Metallica continues to captivate audiences across genres while honoring their own rich history in rock music.