MASTER OF DOWNSTROKES

IN THIS 2009 INTERVIEW (MAKING ITS FIRST APPEARANCE IN GW), JAMES HETFIELD GIVES YOU THE LOWDOWN ON HOW HE DEVELOPED HIS JAW-DROPPING RIFFING CHOPS

- NICK CRACKNELL

FEW PLAYERS CAN CLAIM TO MATCH the rhythm guitar chops of James Hetfield. Famed for his breakneck alternate-picking speed, flawless palm muting and, above all, his wrist-cramping down picking stamina, the Metallica front man has inspired a generation of hard rock and metal guitarists. What’s all the more impressive is his ability to do all this while singing! Try to play and sing any heavy/fast Metallica song, such as “Master of Puppets” and you’ll discover the meaning of tightness and coordination.

Hetfield’s rhythm style, in terms of playing and writing riffs, is legendary in the metal world. Following his example will help you develop a metronomic riffing style and picking accuracy, one which is also combined with a looseness that will help you not just in playing metal, but other styles as well.

Back in 2009, during one of Metallica’s many stadium tours, we had the opportunity to sit down and enjoy a vitamin drink with Mr. Hetfield as he revealed how he developed his awe-inspiring rhythm skills. Below are the results, plus two Hetfield-inspired riffs (with tab and audio), none of which has ever appeared in GW till now.

When did you get interested in becoming a musician?