Roger Waters Criticizes James Hetfield Over Sphere Remarks

Roger Waters criticized Metallica frontman James Hetfield after Hetfield told an audience at the band’s Sphere residency in Las Vegas that Metallica was not there to influence listeners with what he called “bullshit” and was focused on love, energy and heavy music. Waters made his remarks during an appearance on The Katie Halper Show, where he called Hetfield a “complete prick” and questioned his musical ability. Hetfield’s comments, reported as having been made on October 10, appeared to take aim at performers who address politics from the stage. He did not identify whom he meant, and the available accounts do not establish a specific target. He said the band wanted concertgoers to forget outside concerns, rather than be influenced by other entertainers. During the podcast discussion, host Katie Halper asked Waters about Hetfield’s remarks and Metallica’s music. Waters responded with personal insults, saying Hetfield was “no musician” and criticizing the band’s performance on acoustic instruments. He also argued that kindness and empathy were more important than loud music, urging people to show concern for fellow human beings. The exchange was prompted by discussion of...