In an exciting development for rock music fans, Metallica and Limp Bizkit have officially kicked off their collaborative tour, with the first show taking place on April 26, 2025, at the Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario. This marks the beginning of a six-show series where Limp Bizkit will open for the legendary thrash metal band.
Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett recently expressed the band's eagerness to perform at the Las Vegas Sphere, a state-of-the-art venue renowned for its cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Hammett said, “Oh, heck, yeah! That’s a great example of how venues are changing. That’s using modern technology to the fullest, to really up the levels of production and entertainment, connected to AI and making it a crazy experience.” This enthusiasm showcases Metallica's commitment to innovation in live performances.
As part of their ongoing M72 World Tour, Metallica is not only focused on touring but is also busy with new music. Hammett revealed that he is currently working on a forthcoming solo album and has written numerous new riffs for the next Metallica album. Additionally, the band recently teased a clip from their upcoming documentary, Metallica Saved My Life, which is set to be screened in cities across North America during the tour.
The collaboration between Metallica and Limp Bizkit is particularly noteworthy given their shared history. The two bands previously toured together in 2003 during the ‘Summer Sanitarium Tour,’ which is fondly remembered by fans. This new tour features other notable acts such as Pantera, Suicidal Tendencies, and Ice Nine Kills, all of whom will join Metallica at various stops along the way.
During the show in Toronto, Limp Bizkit's guitarist Wes Borland paid homage to Metallica's legacy by adorning his guitar with the phrase ‘EET PHO,’ a clever nod to the iconic phrase ‘EET FUK’ that was famously emblazoned on Metallica vocalist and guitarist James Hetfield’s beloved 1987 ESP MX220 guitar. This tribute highlights the respect and admiration Limp Bizkit holds for Metallica, as they frequently perform an abridged rendition of the title track from Metallica's revered 1986 album, Master Of Puppets.
In a playful exchange on social media, Borland responded to a fan who noticed the homage in a video from the concert, asking, “How did you even see that in the video?” This kind of interaction showcases the camaraderie and mutual respect between the two bands.
Limp Bizkit's setlist for the April 26 concert included a mix of their classic hits and tributes to Metallica, featuring songs like “Take A Look Around,” “Nookie,” and a partial cover of “Master Of Puppets.” The full setlist was a testament to their high-energy performance, which kept the audience engaged and entertained throughout the night.
Looking ahead, Limp Bizkit has several remaining dates with Metallica and Ice Nine Kills. The next show is set for May 3, 2025, at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN, followed by performances in Philadelphia, PA, Tampa, FL, Santa Clara, CA, and Denver, CO. Each venue promises to deliver a unique experience, especially with Metallica's emphasis on utilizing advanced technology to enhance their shows.
The anticipation for this tour is palpable, as fans eagerly await the combination of Metallica's iconic sound and Limp Bizkit's energetic performances. With their shared history and mutual respect, this collaboration is set to create unforgettable moments on stage.
As both bands continue to innovate and push the boundaries of live music, fans can look forward to a summer filled with powerful performances and memorable experiences. The partnership between Metallica and Limp Bizkit is not just a nostalgic reunion; it’s a celebration of rock music that showcases the evolution of live entertainment in the modern age.
