They are a San Francisco-based metal band formed in 1981 by James Hetfield (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) and Lars Ulrich (drums).

After several bassist and lead guitarist changes (including Dave Mustaine), the band settled on Cliff Burton and Kirk Hammett, respectively.

Metallica started playing locally, releasing their first widely circulated demo, No Life 'til Leather, in 1982.

In 2008, the band released its ninth studio album, Death Magnetic, which was produced by Rick Rubin and distributed through Warner Bros. Records.

Metallica then started writing their tenth studio album, Hardwired... to Self-Destruct, which was released on November 18, 2016.