Fans of heavy metal often wonder, who is on tour with Metallica when the band announces a major trek. Understanding the touring lineup helps you anticipate the energy, stage design, and musical variety you will experience at each show.
Live configurations can shift from cycle to cycle, so checking current announcements is essential. This guide breaks down the supporting acts, set structures, and what to expect when Metallica takes the stage alongside handpicked guests.
| Tour Cycle | Headliner | Primary Supporting Acts | Notable Openers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023–2024 M72 World Tour | Metallica | Iron Maiden, The Smashing Pumpkins, R.E.M. | Within Temptation, Ice Nine Kills, Spiritbox |
| 2019–2021 WorldWired Tour | Metallica | Avenged Sevenfold, Volbeat, Gojira | The Hu, Blood Red Throne |
| 2016–2017 Garage Inc Tour | Metallica | Queens of the Stone Age, Biffy Clyro | The Warning, Night Verses |
| 2008–2010 World Magnetic Tour | Metallica | Megadeth, Mastodon, Korn | Lamb of God, Gojira |
| 1991–1992 Black Album Tour | Metallica | Faith No More, Soundgarden, Suicidal Tendencies | Monster Magnet, Ugly Kid Joe |
M72 World Tour Lineup Details
Stage Design and Visuals
During the M72 World Tour, Metallica collaborated with legendary stage designer Es Devlin. The setup featured a massive curtain of vertical blades that responded to the music, creating a cinematic atmosphere that elevated the entire show.
Supporting Acts Roster
The headline run included monumental names such as Iron Maiden, The Smashing Pumpkins, and R.E.M. These artists brought distinct genres, from classic rock anthems to alternative textures, ensuring a broad appeal across the audience.
Setlist Structure and Fan Experience
Metallica typically opens with high-energy tracks to ignite the crowd, followed by deep cuts and fan favorites. Midway through the show, a acoustic segment provides contrast before the band returns with thrashing classics for the finale.
Supporting acts are scheduled on different nights or in separate regions, giving fans multiple opportunities to see a stacked bill. Ticket buyers often plan around which guests they most want to experience live.
How to Stay Updated on Tour Dates
Metallica announces tour schedules through official channels, including their website and verified social accounts. Signing up for alerts ensures you catch early bird pricing and presale windows before general release.
Secondary markets can sell out quickly, so monitoring reputable resale platforms is another strategy if initial tickets disappear. Flexibility with travel dates can also unlock better seating and value.
Comparing Touring Eras and Lineups
Over the decades, Metallica has cycled through different supporting acts based on album cycles and personal connections. Some tours emphasize heavier sounds with metal peers, while others incorporate alternative or classic rock legends.
These shifts reflect the band’s evolving taste and the music landscape at the time. Understanding past patterns helps you anticipate potential future tours and which artists might fit the bill.
Key Takeaways for Metallica Tourgoers
- Review the official touring lineup before buying tickets to match your musical preferences.
- Expect evolving setlists that balance classic hits with deeper album tracks across the night.
- Stay alert for presale codes and fan club announcements to secure better seats.
- Plan travel and accommodation early, especially when multiple high-profile acts are on the same bill.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which bands opened for Metallica on the M72 World Tour?
Within Temptation, Ice Nine Kills, and Spiritbox served as notable openers on select dates of the M72 World Tour, offering diverse styles from symphonic metal to hard rock.
Who joined Metallica as guests during recent tours?
While setlist guests vary, recent tours have featured collaborations with artists such as Apocalyptica and harpist Yo-Yo Ma, adding orchestral and instrumental textures to the evening.
How can I find out which acts are paired with Metallica on my local dates?
Check the date-specific section on Metallica’s official ticket page, where the full supporting lineup is listed for each venue, along with start times and seating maps.
Are tickets for Metallica tours with multiple openers sold separately?
Tickets are typically sold as a single package for the entire show. You are purchasing admission to the full bill rather than individual support acts, so no separate purchase is required.