Metallica may be one of the biggest names in heavy metal, but apparently even rock royalty doesn’t always get a yes when extending a tour invitation.
James Hetfield has revealed that Metallica approached Baltimore hardcore punk band Turnstile about joining their M72 tour as an opening act. Despite the opportunity to share the stage with one of the world’s most successful metal bands, Turnstile decided to pass.
Hetfield discussed the invitation during an episode of his *Riff Life* radio show, explaining that Metallica’s interest came from genuine admiration for Turnstile’s music and live performances.
Rather than expressing disappointment over the rejection, Hetfield appeared to respect the band’s decision, recognizing that Turnstile has already established considerable momentum on its own.
The Metallica frontman was particularly enthusiastic about Turnstile’s concert performances, describing the group as an exciting live act whose energy becomes even more apparent in person. He encouraged music fans to catch one of their shows whenever possible.
His appreciation for the band is nothing new. In 2024, Hetfield and Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford were seen watching Turnstile perform at Norway’s Tons of Rock festival, demonstrating that the group’s appeal extends well beyond its hardcore punk roots.
Turnstile’s decision to decline Metallica’s invitation also comes during an impressive period of growth for the Baltimore outfit.
The band’s 2025 album *Never Enough* reached No. 9 on the Billboard 200, marking another significant achievement as the group continues expanding its audience.
Turnstile has also developed connections with artists from across the musical spectrum, including Elton John and Paramore singer Hayley Williams. Those collaborations reflect a band increasingly comfortable moving between genres without abandoning its hardcore identity.
In another example of its diverse musical relationships, Turnstile recently brought death metal veterans Obituary aboard as an opening act for a U.S. performance.
Meanwhile, Metallica continues its own ambitious touring schedule. The band has been associated with a run of performances at the Las Vegas Sphere, with its M72 tour expected to resume in 2027, according to the November 1 report.
Although a Metallica and Turnstile tour pairing would have brought together two very different generations of heavy music, the proposed collaboration ultimately never materialized.
Still, Hetfield’s public praise speaks volumes about Turnstile’s growing reputation among established rock and metal musicians.
For Turnstile, declining an invitation from Metallica is an unusual career footnote. For Hetfield, it seems the admiration remains firmly intact.
