METALLICA’s legendary lead guitarist Kirk Hammett is opening up about his guitar abilities with surprising honesty and humility. In a recent interview, the 62-year-old rock icon discussed the state of modern guitar playing—particularly in the era of YouTube—where highly skilled musicians routinely demonstrate remarkable technique and precision.
Rather than expressing envy or competition, Hammett admitted he’s often blown away by what he sees online. “I see a lot of [people on YouTube] and I’m frigging impressed,” he said. “There are some amazing players out there, where I’m just shaking my head like, ‘Why aren’t these guys working? Why aren’t they recording?’” He went on to speculate that many may be held back by life circumstances like jobs or family obligations.
However, the conversation quickly turned inward, as Hammett acknowledged a feeling of self-doubt regarding his own growth as a guitarist. “I should be a lot better than I am,” he said candidly. “I see some of these younger guitar players and I’m like, ‘Where did I go wrong?’ Ha ha!”
Despite this introspection, Hammett emphasized that technical perfection was never his primary goal. His playing, he explained, has always been more about feel and emotional expression than about complex theory or showy execution.
“It’s hard for me to be objective or subjective for where I stand in all of this,” he noted. “I just know that I like playing the way I do; I know if I keep on playing from my cajónes, somebody is going to be able to relate to that.”
Hammett also made it clear that he has no interest in competing with the ultra-technical players dominating social media. “I don’t need to show off or get egotistical by being like, ‘Hey, check out this three-octave arpeggio with tapping in the middle.’ I can’t be f**king bothered! I have a bombastic way of playing – I’ve always been that way, even when I was just in my room.”
His remarks offer a rare glimpse into the mindset of one of metal’s most recognizable guitarists, showing that even legends grapple with self-evaluation and the evolving standards of musicianship.
Related Topics
- Sammy Hagar Shares His Unfiltered Thoughts on David Lee Roth’s Return to Touring
- Rock Legend Angus Young, 70, Wows Fans with Timeless Guitar Skills
- Guitar Industry Leaders Head to Washington in Bid to Offset Impact of Trump-Era Tariffs
