Metallica Performs ‘Master of Puppets’ (Riyadh, Dec2023) | Legendary song in a historical concert!!
“Master of Puppets,” a track by Metallica, is not only a cornerstone in the band’s repertoire but also a significant piece in the history of metal music. Released on July 2, 1986, as the only single from the album of the same name, it has achieved numerous accolades and is widely considered one of the greatest and most influential metal albums of all time.
The song has been recognized by various publications and polls for its impact and excellence. For instance, it ranked number 1 in Metal Hammer’s list of the 50 best Metallica songs of all time in 2020. It was also listed at No. 256 on Rolling Stone’s “Top 500 Best Songs of All Time” in 2021 and at number 2 on their “100 Greatest Heavy Metal Songs of All Time” list in 2023. These rankings reflect the song’s enduring appeal and influence in the metal genre.
“Master of Puppets” is featured in various media, highlighting its cultural significance. It appears in the 2003 film “Old School” and the opening credits for the film “Zombieland: Double Tap.” The song also gained renewed popularity following its feature in the fourth season finale of the Netflix series “Stranger Things,” where the character Eddie Munson is seen playing the track in the Upside Down. This resurgence in popularity led to the song charting again in various countries, a testament to its lasting impact on audiences.
The band members responsible for this iconic track include James Hetfield (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Lars Ulrich (drums, percussion), Cliff Burton (bass, backing vocals), and Kirk Hammett (lead guitar). Their collaborative efforts, along with production and engineering by Flemming Rasmussen and others, contributed to the song’s remarkable quality and success.
In essence, “Master of Puppets” is more than just a song; it’s a landmark in metal music history, showcasing Metallica’s prowess and the genre’s vast potential. Its presence in popular culture and continued acclaim decades after its release underscore its timeless appeal and significance in the music world​.