Thrash legends Metallica have been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in Cleveland in an emotional ceremony.
The Hall Of Fame celebrates those acts who have made a significant impact to the path of rock and roll. Inductees include some of music’s biggest names, but the organisation is also keen to honour lesser known musicians whose influence is nonetheless remarkable.
Amongst the inductees at this year’s ceremony were Run DMC. An emotional Eminem made a rare public appearance to pay tribute to the hip hop legends, whose impact far beyond rap and onto every genre of music.
Also inducted was legendary guitar hero Jeff Beck, who made a hilarious acceptance speech. Inducted by fellow Yardbirds alumni Jimmy Page, the pair then thrilled the crowd with a stunning version of ‘Beck’s Bolero’.
Originally recorded in 1967, it would provide the blue print for heavy rock explorations to come. “Ladies and gentlemen, a big chunk of Led Zeppelin right here,” Page said in the middle of the song. The former Led Zeppelin man then played the opening riff to ‘Immigrant Song’ which sent the crowd into hysteria.
Metallica were the biggest name to receive their induction on the night. Together with former bassist Jason Newsted the group played a stunning set following a speech by Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea.
“Metallica is fucking rad and their music is bitching,” said the bassist. “They did more to bring people together than any other peace-and-love band ever did,” he added.
The night finished with Metallica playing the Yardbirds standard ‘Train Kept A-Rollin” alongside Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Flea and surprise guest Ron Wood. Which sounds like it would have been worth seeing, to be honest.