Metallica

Metallica was formed on October 28, 1981 in Los Angeles, California, USA.

Metallica photo (left to right):
Lars Ulrich drums
James Hetfield vocals / rhythm guitar
Jason Newsted base
Kirk Hammett lead guitar

Official website: Metallica
Related Music: Apocalyptica

I was a late bloomer in regards to Metallica. It began in the early 90's instead of the 80's. None the less, they have developed their reputation to icon level, and are certainly the widest known heavy metal band worldwide. The following Metallica songs have cult status, and are a very good place to start, in case you are not familiar with the band.

One (And Justice for All)
Fade to black (Ride the Lightning)
The Unforgiven (Black album)
Nothing Else Matters (Black album)

Their genuine fans rather appreciate the early (or earlier) years. Here are 2 recommendations, from 2 big fans:
Dyers Eve (And Justice for All)
Whiplash (Kill'em All)

The purpose of the mp3 samples is for you to hear how great they are. If you like their music, please buy their CDs!

Metallica has won seven Grammy Awards:

1990: Best Metal Performance - "One"
1991: Best Metal Performance - "Stone Cold Crazy"
1992: Best Metal Performance With Vocal - Metallica
1999: Best Metal Performance - "Better Than You"
2000: Best Hard Rock Performance - "Whiskey in the Jar"
2001: Best Rock Instrumental Performance - "The Call of Ktulu" with Michael Kamen and the San Francisco Symphony
2004: Best Metal Performance - "St. Anger"

Gerald feels the movie "Some Kind of Monster" deserves to be mentioned here as well, which shows the band's insight into and openness towards group-dynamic processes. Showing them as very human, regardless of the otherwise ever-present necessity to keep the hard & tough image.

More information:
Wikipedia.org
imdb

Metallica Photos

Metallica, 1983. Left to right: Kirk Hammett, Cliff Burton, Lars Ulrich, James Hetfield

Metallica 1991

Metallica, 1991. Left to right: Kirk Hammett, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Jason Newsted