Metallica: James Hetfield’s Opening + “Creeping Death” Live in Gothenburg, Sweden – June 16, 2023

On June 16, 2023, Metallica delivered a thunderous performance at Gothenburg’s Ullevi Stadium, igniting the night with an unforgettable rendition of their classic “Creeping Death.” As the opening chords rang out, James Hetfield’s commanding presence immediately took hold of the massive crowd, unleashing a surge of adrenaline that swept through the audience like wildfire. The energy was electric, the anticipation palpable—this was Metallica in their purest, most ferocious form.

The night began with AC/DC’s “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ’n’ Roll)” followed by Ennio Morricone’s “The Ecstasy of Gold,” a nod to the band’s traditional concert opener. Then came the storm—“Creeping Death”—roaring to life with its iconic intro and call-and-response midsection that had the crowd screaming back every word with unwavering intensity. It was a powerful reminder of Metallica’s enduring command over the live music realm.

The setlist spanned the band’s legendary career, from early thrash anthems to deeper cuts and recent releases. Songs like “Holier Than Thou,” “Harvester of Sorrow,” and “Until It Sleeps” were seamlessly paired with newer tracks including “72 Seasons” and “If Darkness Had a Son,” offering fans a complete sonic journey through decades of heavy metal evolution.

One of the standout moments came during the instrumental “Doodle” session with Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo, where the two musicians showcased both technical brilliance and playful spontaneity. Their improvisation added a fresh spark between the heavier numbers and reminded fans just how musically adventurous Metallica can still be onstage.

The emotional depth of the concert deepened with songs like “Fade to Black,” “Orion,” and “Nothing Else Matters.” Each track drew from a different emotional register, and the crowd—spanning all ages and backgrounds—was visibly moved. These selections allowed the band to slow the pace momentarily, giving the audience space to reflect before diving back into full-throttle chaos.

Following these quieter moments, Metallica launched into an unforgiving run of high-energy hits. “Sad but True,” “The Day That Never Comes,” and “Battery” showcased their unmatched stamina and mastery of pacing. The momentum built steadily, reaching a dramatic crescendo with “Master of Puppets,” delivered with blistering precision and sheer force.

The concert’s production design elevated the experience even further. From state-of-the-art lighting to an impeccably tuned sound system, every visual and auditory detail was engineered to perfection. The massive LED screens and coordinated pyrotechnics framed the music without overpowering it—complementing the chaos with clarity and intensity.

The audience was a global mosaic of fans who had traveled far and wide for this one night in Gothenburg. Packed tightly into the stadium, they sang, headbanged, and celebrated every moment together. There was an unspoken sense of unity—a shared reverence for the music and the legends performing it.

Throughout the night, Hetfield frequently engaged the crowd with heartfelt gratitude and bursts of humor. His connection with fans was authentic and electric. The band’s chemistry, both with each other and with the audience, underscored why they remain one of the most compelling live acts in the world.

Rather than simply revisiting their greatest hits, the concert felt like a living document of Metallica’s artistic evolution. Every track, old and new, contributed to a broader narrative of resilience, aggression, and connection—hallmarks of their genre-defining sound.

“Creeping Death” served as the night’s spiritual apex. With Hetfield leading the charge and the crowd chanting along, it was more than just a song—it was a ritual. The synergy between the band and their fans reached its zenith, shaking the foundations of the stadium with every thunderous beat.

As the final notes rang out into the night sky, the crowd stood in stunned silence before erupting into cheers. It wasn’t just about what they’d witnessed—it was about what they’d felt. For many, this performance cemented itself as one of the most unforgettable concerts of their lives.

High-definition recordings of the show have since circulated online, capturing every explosive detail for fans around the world. But even in pristine 4K, the essence of being there—the sweat, the volume, the unity—is something only those present can truly understand.

As the M72 World Tour rolls on, the June 16 show in Gothenburg stands tall as a defining chapter. With unwavering energy, unmatched musicianship, and a setlist that honored every era of their career, Metallica once again proved why they’re not just legends—they’re leaders of the genre they helped build.

In the annals of live music history, Metallica’s Gothenburg concert will remain etched as a night when metal met magic, and a sea of fans bore witness to the enduring power of one of rock’s most iconic forces.