Get ready to dive into the world of legendary guitars and rock history, because Kirk Hammett, Metallica's iconic guitarist, is taking you on a journey like no other. In a bold move, Hammett has released an official video of his The Collection: Live book tour event in Tampa, Florida, held on June 7, 2025, at the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Event Center. But here's where it gets even more exciting: this wasn't just any book tour—it was an intimate, live discussion that explored the depths of Hammett's illustrious career and celebrated the launch of his lavish coffee table book, The Collection: Kirk Hammett. And this is the part most people miss: Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo joined Hammett on stage for a surprise jam, adding an unforgettable twist to the evening.
Hammett himself expressed his enthusiasm, saying, 'I am thrilled to share Kirk Hammett The Collection: Live in Tampa, Florida, on June 7, 2025. During the M72 tour, I brought the book to life in six cities, sharing the stories and artistry behind my rare instruments. Every picture in this book, thanks to Ross Halfin’s incredible photography, tells a story worth a million words. I’m grateful to Gibson for helping me turn my passion for guitars, especially Greeny, into a reality. I hope you enjoy this LIVE journey as much as I did.'
But here's where it gets controversial: Metallica has been shaking things up on their recent tours by incorporating 'doodles'—pared-down covers of songs by their musical heroes, often far removed from their signature metal sound. These stripped-back performances, featuring just bass, guitar, and sometimes Trujillo’s vocals, have sparked debates among fans. Are these covers a refreshing change or a departure from what makes Metallica, well, Metallica? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Published by Gibson Publishing, The Collection: Kirk Hammett is a 400-page hardcover masterpiece that delves into the stories behind Hammett’s rare and collectible guitars. Available in three premium formats—limited signed and numbered Custom and Deluxe Editions, and a Standard hardcover—the book is a treasure trove for guitar enthusiasts and Metallica fans alike. Shot in Hawaii and Los Angeles by rock photography legend Ross Halfin, it features exclusive interviews with Hammett conducted by Gibson’s Chris Vinnicombe and Mark Agnesi. From his 1979 Gibson Flying V to the iconic Greeny, a 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard once owned by Peter Green and Gary Moore, this book is a deep dive into the instruments that shaped Hammett’s career.
In a captivating video teaser narrated by Jason Momoa, the actor and longtime Metallica fan reflects, 'Every guitar has a story, and the thrill of finding the right one can be as electrifying as any song it will play. Collecting is an obsession, a passion, and a never-ending quest for the perfect tone. No one knows this more than Kirk Hammett.'
Before joining Metallica in 1983, Hammett was a founding member of EXODUS, even coining the band’s name and recruiting original singer Paul Baloff. His departure from EXODUS wasn’t without drama—in a 1994 Metal Hammer interview, Hammett revealed his bandmates were less than thrilled about his decision. Yet, with Metallica, he went on to record their debut album, Kill 'Em All, and has since rocked stages worldwide, selling over 125 million albums.
As The Collection: Live continues to tour select cities on Metallica’s M72 North American Tour, one thing is clear: Kirk Hammett’s legacy is as much about the music as it is about the guitars that made it possible. But we want to hear from you: What’s your take on Hammett’s guitar collection and Metallica’s recent musical experiments? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation!
