Metallica Delivered A Stunningly Heartfelt Performance Of “Iron Man (Live)
On March 13, 2006, Metallica honored Black Sabbath by inducting them into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame during a ceremony held at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. This event was a momentous occasion for the members of Metallica, who have often cited Black Sabbath as a profound influence on their music and career.
During the ceremony, Metallica’s James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich delivered heartfelt speeches, expressing their admiration and gratitude towards Black Sabbath. Ulrich passionately declared that Black Sabbath is synonymous with heavy metal, emphasizing the band’s pioneering role in the genre. The induction speech was both a tribute to Black Sabbath’s legacy and a critique of the Hall of Fame’s delayed recognition of the band’s contributions.
Following the induction, Metallica performed a medley of Black Sabbath classics, including “Hole in the Sky” and “Iron Man.” This performance was particularly notable as Hetfield attempted to match Ozzy Osbourne’s iconic vocal style, showcasing his versatility as a singer. The energy and enthusiasm of Metallica’s performance were a testament to their respect and reverence for Black Sabbath.
Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward of Black Sabbath accepted the induction with gratitude, reflecting on their journey and the obstacles they overcame. Osbourne, who had previously criticized the Hall of Fame for overlooking Black Sabbath, expressed his appreciation for the honor. The band members acknowledged the criticism they faced throughout their career and celebrated their validation through this induction.
The ceremony underscored the enduring impact of Black Sabbath on the world of rock and heavy metal. Their innovative sound and dark thematic elements have influenced countless bands and continue to resonate with new generations of fans. Metallica’s tribute performance was a highlight of the evening, encapsulating the profound connection between two of heavy metal’s most iconic bands.
