A Historic Night: Metallica’s Fiery Tribute to Elton John and Bernie Taupin at DAR Constitution Hall

The 2024 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song concert was an unforgettable night, honoring Elton John and Bernie Taupin’s legendary songwriting partnership. Held at the historic DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., the event brought together a star-studded lineup of artists, but it was Metallica’s fiery rendition of “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” that stole the spotlight. This unexpected crossover showcased the band’s ability to transform a classic rock ballad into an explosive anthem while paying homage to one of the greatest songwriting duos in history.

As the opening track from Elton John’s Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973), “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” is an epic, emotional journey. Known for its grand, symphonic structure and emotional depth, it’s a bold choice for a metal band like Metallica. Yet, Metallica’s performance was a masterclass in blending genres. The band’s heavy guitars and thunderous drums added a raw power to the song, without losing the emotional core that makes it so beloved. It was a unique interpretation that left the audience in awe and reminded everyone of the timeless nature of John and Taupin’s music.

Elton John and Bernie Taupin have been musical collaborators for over five decades, creating some of the most iconic songs in rock and pop history. Tracks like “Rocket Man,” “Your Song,” and “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” have not only defined John’s career but have also shaped the course of popular music. Metallica’s decision to cover “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” was not just a tribute to John and Taupin, but also a testament to their influence across all genres, including heavy metal.

The concert itself was a celebration of this incredible legacy. Metallica joined a diverse group of artists, including Joni Mitchell, Brandi Carlile, and Maren Morris, all of whom performed songs from the John-Taupin catalog. Each artist brought their own unique style to the event, but it was Metallica’s performance that stood out for its intensity and innovation. By taking a song that is deeply rooted in classic rock and infusing it with metal, they managed to create something both fresh and respectful to the original.

Metallica’s performance was not just about the music, though. It was also a moment of shared respect between two musical giants. Elton John has long been a fan of Metallica, having collaborated with them on their 2021 album The Metallica Blacklist. In fact, John has called their song “Nothing Else Matters” one of the best songs ever written, and he joined Miley Cyrus for a cover of the track on the tribute album. This mutual admiration added an extra layer of meaning to Metallica’s performance at the Gershwin Prize concert.

The reaction from the audience was one of pure excitement. Watching Metallica perform such an iconic Elton John song in a historic venue like DAR Constitution Hall created a palpable sense of energy in the room. Even those who may not have been familiar with Metallica’s work were drawn in by the band’s powerful presence and the emotional weight of the song. It was a reminder of how music can transcend genres and bring people together, no matter their musical preferences.

For Metallica, this performance was also an opportunity to showcase their versatility as musicians. While they are best known for their hard-hitting metal anthems, their rendition of “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” demonstrated their ability to tackle more melodic and complex arrangements. The song’s intricate piano introduction was replaced by Kirk Hammett’s soaring guitar work, while James Hetfield’s vocals captured the emotional essence of the lyrics. It was a performance that showcased Metallica’s musical range and their respect for the craft of songwriting.

As the night progressed, other artists took the stage to honor John and Taupin, but Metallica’s performance remained the high point for many in attendance. The band’s decision to cover one of John’s more theatrical and emotionally charged songs was a bold move, but one that paid off in a big way. Their performance was a fitting tribute to two of music’s greatest songwriters and a reminder of the enduring power of great songs.

The full concert, including Metallica’s performance, is set to air on PBS in April, giving a wider audience the chance to experience this historic night. For fans of both Metallica and Elton John, it’s a must-watch moment that highlights the universality of music and the shared respect between two very different but equally influential artists.

In the end, Metallica’s cover of “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” at the 2024 Gershwin Prize concert will be remembered as one of those rare performances that transcends genres and generations. It was a powerful reminder of the timelessness of great music and the ability of artists to reinterpret and reimagine songs in ways that resonate with new audiences.