Metallica: Am I Evil? (Live w/ The Big 4) [The Big 4: Live in Sofia, Bulgaria]

“Am I Evil?” by Metallica, performed live with The Big 4 in Sofia, Bulgaria, stands out as an iconic moment in heavy metal history. On June 22, 2010, Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax united for a monumental performance at the Sonisphere Festival held at the Vasil Levski National Stadium. This concert was part of a historic series where these thrash metal giants shared the stage, creating an unparalleled experience for metal fans.

During the performance of “Am I Evil?”, the stage was graced by Joey Belladonna from Anthrax, who joined James Hetfield, Dave Mustaine, and Tom Araya. These three legendary vocalists, known for their prowess on the guitar and their deep connection to the lyrics, delivered an electrifying rendition of the Diamond Head classic. The camaraderie among the bands was palpable, highlighting the unity within the metal community despite their fierce individual reputations.

The Big 4’s performance in Sofia was broadcast live to cinemas worldwide, allowing fans across the globe to witness this historic event. The concert was later released as a DVD, “The Big 4: Live from Sofia, Bulgaria,” capturing the energy and excitement of the night. The collaboration on “Am I Evil?” was particularly significant, as it symbolized the mutual respect and shared history among these bands, each a pillar of the thrash metal genre.

Metallica’s setlist that night included fan favorites like “Creeping Death,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and “Master of Puppets.” The energy in the stadium was unmatched, with the crowd’s enthusiasm driving the bands to deliver stellar performances. This event was not just a concert but a celebration of metal’s enduring legacy and its ability to bring people together from all walks of life.

James Hetfield, known for his engaging stage presence, acted as a unifying force, interacting with the audience and soaking in the moment. The collaboration on “Am I Evil?” was a testament to the strength and resilience of the metal community, showcasing the best of what these legendary bands had to offer.

For Joey Belladonna, standing on stage with Hetfield, Mustaine, and Araya, all of whom not only played guitar but also knew the song’s lyrics by heart, was a significant moment. This performance is a reminder that even in the most high-pressure situations, camaraderie and shared passion can create something truly magical. If you ever feel awkward in your life, just remember that Joey was on stage with three vocalists who not only played the guitar but also bothered learning the lyrics to the song they’re performing.

The Big 4’s live performance in Sofia remains a defining moment in metal history, a celebration of the genre’s past, present, and future. It exemplifies the power of music to unite and inspire, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who witnessed it.