Lars Ulrich, the legendary drummer of Metallica, has never been one to shy away from his love for heavy metal. But here’s where it gets intriguing: while he’s often celebrated for his role in shaping the genre, Ulrich’s musical tastes are far more eclectic than most fans realize. From the moment he first picked up drumsticks, Ulrich was drawn to the raw energy of bands like Diamond Head and Angel Witch, but his passion didn’t stop there. Even as he became a cornerstone of Metallica’s sound, his appreciation for music extended beyond the heaviest riffs.
And this is the part most people miss: Ulrich’s admiration for U2, a band seemingly worlds apart from Metallica’s thrash metal roots. In a candid interview, Ulrich praised U2 as a band that ‘works on all levels,’ citing their ability to reinvent themselves, think big and small, and maintain relevance after decades in the industry. ‘They’re really inspiring to me,’ he said, highlighting their kinship with Metallica’s own journey of evolution and ambition. This unexpected influence sheds light on Ulrich’s desire to push boundaries, even if it meant polarizing fans.
Ulrich’s fascination with U2’s Achtung Baby era, where the band deconstructed their sound to create mood-driven music, reflects his own willingness to experiment. While Metallica’s Load albums faced mixed reactions, Ulrich’s drive to explore new sonic territories mirrors U2’s fearless approach to reinvention. Here’s the controversial bit: some fans argue that this experimentation diluted Metallica’s signature sound, but Ulrich’s perspective suggests it was about growth, not compromise.
Cliff Burton, Metallica’s late bassist, played a pivotal role in broadening the band’s horizons. Known for his classical influences, Burton also championed diverse artists like Kate Bush, R.E.M., and Lynyrd Skynyrd, encouraging the band to think beyond heavy metal. This openness to different genres laid the groundwork for Metallica’s later experiments, though not without controversy.
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question: Is ambition in music a double-edged sword? Ulrich’s relentless drive to explore new sounds led to both triumphs and missteps, much like U2’s own journey. While neither band is immune to criticism—Bono and Ulrich have both been accused of ‘sniffing their own musical farts’—their willingness to take risks is precisely why they remain iconic. Without that ambition, would Metallica’s Black Album or U2’s Achtung Baby exist?
Ulrich’s appreciation for U2 isn’t just about their music; it’s about their longevity and ability to stay relevant. ‘They’re one of the only other bands that are still functioning after 30 years, just like we are,’ he noted. This shared resilience is what he admires most, even if U2’s sound lacks Metallica’s bite. Both bands, in their own ways, have prioritized long-term artistic vision over short-term acclaim.
So, here’s the ultimate question for you: Is Lars Ulrich’s admiration for U2 a testament to his open-mindedness, or a departure from Metallica’s roots? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this unexpected musical connection!
