It felt like a bolt of lightning hit the ballpark. Right before the San Francisco Giants game, James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett walked onto the field, guitars in hand, and suddenly this wasn’t just a baseball night anymore. They tore into “The Star-Spangled Banner” with raw power and real emotion, turning a familiar song into something unforgettable. Only Kirk Hammett would bring a wah pedal to a stadium full of baseball fans—and somehow make it feel perfectly natural. No vocals, no flash, just pure sound and control, played with more heart than most singers could ever pull off. This wasn’t Metallica showing off. They were trusted to carry the anthem. When America met metal that night, the entire crowd felt it straight in their bones.

On August 7, 2017, San Francisco’s AT&T Park (now Oracle Park) hosted its fifth annual Metallica Night, a lively celebration that paired America’s pastime with the Bay Area metal legends. As part of the festivities, Metallica guitar titans James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett took the field before the San Francisco Giants game and delivered an electric rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” on their signature axes.

A Rock‑Infused Anthem

Clad in Giants jerseys and backed by amplifiers customized with Giants and Metallica logos, Hetfield and Hammett stormed through the national anthem with virtuosic precision. Their riff‑heavy interpretation transformed the traditional melody into a shred showcase—“a near‑flawless rendition” by seasoned pros.

Watch the video down below and don’t forget to share this beautiful song with your friends and family…

Annual Home‑Town Tradition

Metallica’s continued partnership with the Giants dates back to 2013, making their pre‑game anthem performance a much‑anticipated annual ritual. Beyond playing, they also joined team pre‑game activities—Hetfield read the lineup, and drummer Lars Ulrich threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Custom A‑List Guitars for Charity

For the 2017 event, Hetfield performed using an ESP Snakebyte, while Hammett wielded a KH‑2—both uniquely painted in Giants orange and black and later auctioned for charity. Proceeds benefited the Buster and Kristen Posey Fund for pediatric cancer.

Legacy and Impact

This electrifying blend of baseball and metal has earned fanfare each year, with broadcasters, press, and social media praising the event. Rolling crowds, media coverage, and dedicated fan giveaways on platforms like Metallica.com underscore the cultural crossover . Their impressive performance not only celebrated patriotism but also deepened Metallica’s bond with their hometown audience.

Metallica Night remains a highlight of the Giants’ season, showcasing how two icons of American culture—hard‑rock legend and national pastime—can come together for an unforgettable pre‑game spectacle.