#887 - James Hetfield

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  James Hetfield Discusses the Evolution of Metallica's Music and Personal Struggles

  • James Hetfield expresses pride in Metallica's ability to stay relevant and hard-hitting in their latest album.
  • He reflects on the transition successful artists face when shifting from hunger and passion to wealth and fame.
  • Hetfield emphasizes the importance of honesty in music and how it serves as therapy for both himself and fans.
• 00:06:30

  James Hetfield's Move to Colorado and His Connection to the Outdoors

  • Hetfield shares insights on his recent move from the Bay Area to Vail, Colorado, seeking a more natural environment.
  • He discusses the cultural differences between California and Colorado, especially regarding attitudes towards hunting.
  • The conversation touches on Hetfield's experiences with backlash over his involvement in hunting shows and misconceptions about him.
• 00:12:00

  John's Frontier Lifestyle: Embracing Organic Beekeeping and Hunting

  • John discusses his preference for a lifestyle rooted in organic practices, including hunting and raising bees.
  • He shares insights into the challenges and benefits of sustaining his family with home-grown food and honey.
  • John reflects on the dissonance he feels in a progressive society that criticizes hunting while consuming meat from stores.
• 00:19:09

  Beekeeping Adventures: John's Journey into the World of Bees and Honey Production

  • John describes his experiences in a bee club, detailing the community and the intense study of bee behavior.
  • He explains the health benefits of honey production and how local pollen helps build immunity.
  • John shares fascinating bee facts, including the unique roles of queens, drones, and the dangers of aggressive bee species.
• 00:22:23

  The Intriguing Life of Bees: Insights from Bee Enthusiast Joe Rogan

  • Discussion on the reproduction and swarming behavior of bees, particularly the queen's role.
  • Joe shares his experience with beekeeping, highlighting the delicious varieties of honey available in Hawaii.
  • The conversation touches on the historical hysteria surrounding African killer bees and their impact on domestic bees.
• 00:31:05

  Joe Rogan's Journey into Beekeeping and Sustainability

  • Joe explores the importance of pollinators and their symbiotic relationship with agriculture, including crops like almonds and oranges.
  • He discusses the natural behavior of bees, including hibernation, and emphasizes a hands-off approach to beekeeping.
  • The conversation illustrates Joe's dedication to sustainable living on his ranch in California and future plans for beekeeping in Vail.
• 00:32:09

  Neil Young's Serene Ranch: A Haven for Rock Stars

  • Discussion about Neil Young's expansive ranch and its serene environment.
  • Young's audiophile traits highlighted through his unique lake speaker setup.
  • Mention of personal experiences at the Bridge School Benefit concert, featuring buffalo and camaraderie.
• 00:39:16

  Lars Ulrich's Bold Stand Against Napster and the Music Industry

  • Lars Ulrich's pivotal role during the Napster controversy and its lasting impact on the music industry.
  • Reflections on the stigma faced by successful artists within the heavy metal community.
  • Discussion on the evolution of music consumption and the challenges it poses for artists' livelihoods.
• 00:43:25

  Courtney Love's Ghostwriter Controversy and Metallica's Music Ownership Revolution

  • Discussion about Courtney Love's controversial claim regarding authorship of her work, highlighting the exploitation of emerging artists.
  • Metallica reveals they regained ownership of their music catalog and discuss the significance of having their own record press.
  • Emphasis on the evolution of music consumption, focusing on the resurgence of vinyl and the tactile experience of music.
• 00:51:06

  The Disturbing Reality of Live Performance: Lip Syncing Popular Artists

  • Reflections on the authenticity of live performances, criticizing artists who lip-sync instead of genuinely performing.
  • The importance of the live concert experience, contrasting it with recorded music and the emotional connection it creates.
  • Discussion on the challenges of live singing and the value of acoustic performances that strip down music to its roots.
• 00:54:06

  Lars Ulrich and the Napster Controversy: The Real Implications of Music Piracy

  • Lars Ulrich discusses the effects of Napster on the music industry, explaining the financial risks for artists.
  • Emphasizes the importance of paying for music to sustain the entire music industry ecosystem.
  • Critiques the perception that wealthy artists do not care about piracy, highlighting that it threatens the livelihood of creators.
• 01:00:52

  Pharrell Williams and Streaming Royalties: The Discrepancy in Artist Payments

  • Pharrell Williams earned only $2,700 from 43 million streams, sparking a discussion on the fairness of streaming compensation.
  • Exploration of the relationship between art, commercial success, and the stigma against artists making money.
  • Highlighting the ongoing challenges artists face due to evolving technology and the complexities of monetizing music.
• 01:13:47

  Mick Jagger and the Physical Demands of Rock: Insights from Heavy Metal Legends

  • The discussion highlights the vibrant energy and longevity of Mick Jagger and The Rolling Stones amidst the physical challenges of performing.
  • Metallica's experiences with neck surgeries due to intense physical performances are shared, emphasizing the toll on rock musicians.
  • Angus Young from AC/DC is noted for his high-energy performances, raising questions about the long-term effects of such physicality on musicians.
• 02:23:18

  Navigating Pain and Healing: Rock Legends on Injury Recovery and Alternative Therapies

  • Personal accounts of injuries, including ruptured discs and shoulder issues, reveal the physical struggles faced by rock musicians like Dave Mustaine.
  • Alternative therapies such as spinal decompression and yoga are discussed as methods for recovery and maintaining physical health.
  • Insights into the conventional medical approach versus holistic healing practices highlight the musicians' journeys towards better health.
• 01:13:47

  James Hetfield Shares Metallica's Unique Road Survival Techniques

  • James Hetfield discusses fitness and therapy routines for Metallica band members on tour.
  • He highlights specific physical challenges faced by band members, including Robert Trujillo's surfer calves and Kirk Hammett's wrist issues.
  • Hetfield recounts a humorous promotional event with Billy on the Street, showcasing their playful side during a supermarket visit.
• 01:56:12

  James Hetfield Reflects on Creativity, Mistakes, and Overcoming Addiction

  • Hetfield candidly talks about mental blocks and the pressure of performing in front of audiences.
  • He shares his journey to sobriety, emphasizing the fear of losing his family and the emotional turmoil from his past.
  • The discussion explores the delicate balance between a musician's creativity and the psychological challenges they face.
• 01:13:47

  James Hetfield's Journey Through Rehab and Family Healing

  • James Hetfield discusses the impact of substance abuse on his family life, emphasizing the importance of communication.
  • His wife played a crucial role in his recovery by encouraging him to seek professional help.
  • After seven weeks of intense rehab, Hetfield learned to reconnect with his identity and restore trust within his family.
• 01:56:12

  James Hetfield's Life-Altering Concert in 1991 Russia

  • Hetfield recounts a historic free concert in Russia in 1991, highlighting its significance after the fall of the Soviet Union.
  • The overwhelming experience of performing before half a million fans was exhilarating yet daunting for Hetfield.
  • He reflects on the dynamics of fame and identity, expressing challenges in staying grounded amidst public adoration.
• 01:13:47

  Transformative Power of Music: An Episode with 500,000 Fans and Military in the Crowd

  • The chaotic scene includes military personnel initially resistant to the music culture.
  • Over 300,000 fans connect through music despite language barriers.
  • Witnessing the shift from a closed society to a more liberated environment.
• 01:56:12

  Hunting Adventures in Colorado: From Southern California Origins to Massive Elk

  • Discusses childhood hunting experiences with his father and the evolution to bigger game.
  • Shares details about elk season in Colorado, highlighting the state's rich hunting grounds.
  • Mentions the specific experiences of hunting on Tejon Ranch with impressive elk sizes.
• 01:06:23

  Metallica's James Hetfield Shares Controversial Hunting Tips

  • James Hetfield discusses the importance of personal hygiene while hunting and the impact of scent on deer.
  • He mentions unconventional methods like using ozonics to mask human scent in hunting scenarios.
  • The conversation touches on the challenges of hunting and the backlash Hetfield faced for participating in a grizzly bear hunting show.
• 01:13:31

  James Hetfield's Wild Bear Hunting Adventure in Kamchatka, Russia

  • Hetfield recounts his thrilling experience hunting brown bears in Kamchatka, emphasizing the unique challenges posed by the harsh environment.
  • He discusses the unusual circumstances of the hunt, including encounters with Russian guides armed with AK-47s.
  • The narrative highlights Hetfield's mixed feelings about bear meat and his desire for a more satisfying hunting experience.