Metallica Ignites Elton John’s Classic with a Thunderous Tribute at the Gershwin Prize

Metallica and Elton John are two iconic figures who usually belong to very different musical realms. Yet earlier this year at the Gershwin Prize ceremony, Metallica decided to bridge that gap with an unforgettable performance. They chose to cover two of Elton John’s most emotional tracks, creating a dynamic and genre-defying moment. With Elton seated prominently in the front row, Metallica launched into a roaring rendition of “Funeral for a Friend / Love Lies Bleeding” from the legendary *Goodbye Yellow Brick Road* album, drawing awe from everyone present.

True to their style, Metallica transformed the medley into a heavy metal masterpiece that was uniquely their own. Their version was not just a simple cover but a powerful reinterpretation that infused the classic with raw energy. Over the years, Metallica has made no secret of their deep respect for Elton John, and this tribute reflected their admiration perfectly. James Hetfield delivered a commanding vocal performance, adding a fresh, gritty edge to the beloved tracks and reminding fans why his voice is one of the most distinctive in rock.

The crowd was visibly moved as the heavy metal legends honored a pop music giant in a way only Metallica could. Elton John appeared delighted, soaking in the heartfelt homage from one of rock’s hardest-hitting bands. Hearing the soaring melodies of “Funeral for a Friend / Love Lies Bleeding” wrapped in Metallica’s thunderous instrumentation made for a breathtaking contrast. The energy inside the DAR Constitution Hall was electric, with both nostalgia and admiration filling the room.

Watch the video down below and don’t forget to share this incredible performance with your friends and loved ones…

The live performance took place at the historic DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, DC, on March 20, 2024. Since being uploaded on April 12, Metallica’s fiery rendition has accumulated an impressive 1.3 million views. Fans who appreciate the band’s mid-1990s sound will recognize a familiar intensity in their approach, with some even suggesting that this energetic version could easily fit as a B-side from their *Load* album era.

This wasn’t Metallica’s first public display of respect for Elton John. Back in 2021, Metallica and Elton had a memorable moment on *The Howard Stern Show*. While Stern was interviewing the band, Elton John unexpectedly called in and praised “Nothing Else Matters,” describing it as “one of the best songs ever written.” James Hetfield’s emotional reaction to this high praise was captured live, highlighting just how much admiration flows both ways between the two artists.

The Gershwin Prize for Popular Song was awarded this year to Elton John and his longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin, honoring their monumental contributions to music. The celebratory night was filled with star-studded performances from music legends like Joni Mitchell, Garth Brooks, Brandi Carlile, Charlie Puth, Annie Lennox, Maren Morris, Billy Porter, and Jacob Lusk of Gabriels. Each artist paid tribute, making it an unforgettable celebration of songwriting excellence.

The medley “Funeral for a Friend / Love Lies Bleeding” stands out among the many extraordinary works created by John and Taupin. Fans may recall that this emotional piece served as the dramatic opener to the 1973 double album *Goodbye Yellow Brick Road*, setting the tone for one of Elton’s most celebrated and enduring records.

“Funeral for a Friend” itself originated from a deeply personal place, as Elton John composed it while reflecting on the music he would want played at his own funeral. The piece’s intricate composition and length—over 11 minutes—made it impractical for a single release, yet its emotional power made it a mainstay on radio stations and a fan favorite in live concerts.