Metallica’s Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo Cover The Living End in Melbourne
During Metallica’s Melbourne M72 World Tour show, Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo surprised fans by covering The Living End’s Prisoner of Society, continuing a trend of performing local songs in each city on the Australian leg of the tour.
Local Song Tributes Across Australian Cities
- Perth opened with a cover of John Butler Trio’s Zebra.
- Adelaide featured a mash-up of INXS’s Need You Tonight and The Angels’ Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again.
- Melbourne honored its punk roots with The Living End’s Prisoner of Society, one of the city’s most iconic bands.
The Living End’s Signature Track Resonates
As soon as Hammett launched into the instantly recognizable riff, the 50,000-strong crowd at Marvel Stadium erupted in response. Prisoner of Society, which brought The Living End to international attention in 1998, melds punk energy with rockabilly style and Melbourne grit.
“For The Living End, hearing Metallica blast their signature track in front of 50,000 people at Marvel Stadium has to feel pretty surreal.”
The brief, loose jam featured Trujillo on vocals with Hammett visibly enjoying the moment.
James Hetfield Honors Melbourne’s Rock Legacy
Earlier that day, James Hetfield visited AC/DC Lane to see a new mural of the late bassist Cliff Burton and pay respects at the Bon Scott statue, a quiet, personal moment before the concert’s massive energy.
“This run of city-specific jams has become a signature of Metallica’s Australian Tour.”
These local tributes add a unique flavor to Metallica’s performances and celebrate the musical heritage of each city.
Author’s summary: Metallica’s Melbourne show highlighted the band’s connection to local music, blending iconic city songs into their setlist and paying tribute to Melbourne’s rich rock history.