In an interview for NME’s ‘Does Rock ‘N’ Roll Kill Braincells?!’ series, Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett shared some interesting insights about a co-headline tour that Metallica embarked on with Guns N’ Roses in 1992.
During the conversation, Hammett mentioned that they had approached Nirvana to open for them and Guns N’ Roses on this tour, but Nirvana’s frontman Kurt Cobain turned down the offer.
According to Kirk Hammett, Kurt Cobain “didn’t like what Guns N’ Roses stood for”
Hammett personally called Kurt Cobain to discuss the possibility of Nirvana joining the tour. However, Cobain expressed his strong reservations about Guns N’ Roses, stating that he didn’t like what the band stood for. Hammett tried to convince Cobain to take part in the tour, encouraging him to represent Nirvana on the stage.
Despite his efforts, Cobain remained firm in his decision to decline the offer.
Hammett also shared a memory of inviting Cobain to one of Metallica’s shows in Seattle as part of ‘The Black Album’ tour. Cobain expressed his fondness for Metallica’s song “Whiplash” and attended the show with Courtney Love.
Although Cobain tried to get Hammett’s attention from the stage’s snakepit area, Hammett was preoccupied and couldn’t notice him.
The guitarist further mentioned that he had become friends with Cobain when Nirvana’s first album, ‘Bleach,’ was released. He reflected on the tragic trajectory of Cobain’s life, highlighting how Cobain’s genuine passion for playing guitar, writing songs, and singing was overshadowed by various challenges and difficulties.
In addition to discussing the past, Hammett also talked about his own solo EP titled ‘Portals,’ which he released in April. He described the EP’s music as having an “audio-cinematic approach” and likened it to soundtracks for imaginary movies. Meanwhile, Metallica is currently on a European headline tour and is scheduled to perform at various festivals during the summer.
In summary, Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett recounted his experience of approaching Nirvana to open for Metallica and Guns N’ Roses on a co-headline tour in 1992. He shared Cobain’s reluctance due to his opinions about Guns N’ Roses and recalled an instance where he invited Cobain to a Metallica show.
Hammett also expressed sadness over the challenges Cobain faced despite his passion for music. Additionally, he discussed his solo EP and Metallica’s ongoing tour activities.
