METALLICA have released professionally shot footage of their performance of “The Unforgiven” from the band’s first-ever concert in Saudi Arabia, which took place on December 14
The band headlined the opening night of the three-day Soundstorm festival in Riyadh.
METALLICA’s setlist for Saudi Arabia concert:
01. Creeping Death
02. For Whom The Bell Tolls
03. Wherever I May Roam
04. The Memory Remains
05. Lux Æterna
06. Too Far Gone?
07. Fade To Black
08. Fuel
09. Orion
10. Nothing Else Matters
11. Sad But True
12. The Unforgiven
13. Seek & Destroy
14. One
15. Master Of Puppets
16. Enter Sandman
An impressive lineup of artists graced the stage at the event, with notable performances by Pharrell Williams, Chris Brown, H.E.R., BLACK EYED PEAS, J Balvin, and Anne-Marie. The musical spectacle also featured the electrifying beats of renowned DJs Tiesto and David Guetta.
Reports indicate that over 600,000 attendees flocked to last year’s Soundstorm, making it a colossal gathering that left a resounding impact on the music scene. Orchestrated by Saudi music powerhouses MDLBEAST, Soundstorm has consistently drawn some of the most significant acts, both locally and globally, to Riyadh since its inception in 2019.
The festival’s sprawling site spans an impressive five and a half million square meters, providing ample space for the enthusiastic crowd. Beyond the main stage performances, festival-goers enjoyed the vibrant park life areas, featuring an array of food outlets and street performers. This unique blend of musical excellence and entertainment in the heart of Riyadh has rightfully earned Soundstorm the title of “the loudest week in Riyadh,” solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon in the region.
METALLICA made their Middle East live debut in 2011 at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Park. They would return to play the same venue two years later.
In support of their latest album, “72 Seasons,” METALLICA has been treating fans to two-night, no-repeat shows in each city, first in Europe and now in North America, as part of the “M72” tour. The concerts feature METALLICA performing on a massive ring-shaped stage, with the Snake Pit in the center and four strategically placed drum sets, allowing drummer Lars Ulrich to engage with the audience at various points in the show.
Billboard reports that METALLICA‘s production involves a massive logistical operation, requiring 87 trucks — 45 for the band and setup, and two groups of 21 each for the steel stage and towers. The crew consists of 130 people, along with 40 steelworkers, local hires, and truck drivers.
According to METALLICA‘s manager, Cliff Burnstein, an impressive 80% to 90% of fans attending each concert are present for both shows.
The “M72” tour, which kicked off in late April in Amsterdam, features a lineup of opening acts including FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, ICE NINE KILLS, MAMMOTH WVH, PANTERA, ARCHITECTS, GRETA VAN FLEET, and VOLBEAT.
A portion of the proceeds from the shows contributes to METALLICA‘s All Within My Hands foundation, dedicated to assisting and enriching the lives of community members, combating food insecurity, providing disaster relief, and offering scholarships.