Metallica's 'Doodle' Tradition: A Unique Fan Experience
Metallica's WorldWired and M72 tours have been a spectacle of musical exploration, and one of the most intriguing aspects is the 'Doodle' tradition. This unique performance, where Rob Trujillo and Kirk Hammett cover local songs, has become a fan favorite. But what makes this tradition so captivating, and how has it evolved over the years?
In my opinion, the 'Doodle' tradition is a testament to Metallica's willingness to embrace the local culture and engage with their fans on a deeper level. It's a refreshing change from the typical set lists and allows the band to connect with audiences in a more personal way. What makes this particularly fascinating is the element of surprise and the unexpected. From covering Prince's 'When Doves Cry' in Minneapolis to tackling Abba's 'Dancing Queen' in Stockholm, each 'Doodle' is a unique and memorable experience for fans.
However, not all 'Doodles' have been well-received. The Stone Roses' 'I Wanna Be Adored' in Manchester was a 'damp squib', according to some fans, while Celtic Frost's 'The Usurper' in Zurich drew complaints from the band's frontman. This raises a deeper question: how do you strike the right balance between embracing local culture and respecting the original artists?
One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of local knowledge. Metallica's 'Doodles' often require a deep understanding of the local music scene, and this can be a challenge. For every Black Sabbath or Rammstein, there's a song by a local band like Zero Boys or Xutos & Pontapés. This highlights the band's willingness to take risks and explore new musical territories.
In recent years, Metallica has shifted its approach to the 'Doodle' tradition. Initially, they would play a self-written Doodle on the first night of a no-repeat weekend, leaving the local choices for the second night. However, this didn't always work, and for the final leg of the M72 tour in 2026, they dropped the self-written Doodles, focusing once again on local choices. This suggests that Metallica is constantly adapting and refining its approach to this unique tradition.
What many people don't realize is the impact of Eastern European choices on the 'Doodle' tradition. Take Jožin Z Bažin, a comedy folk song about a mysterious, swamp-dwelling man-eating monster, performed in Prague in 2018. The stadium erupted when it was played, and the crowd bellows along. This highlights the power of local songs to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
In conclusion, Metallica's 'Doodle' tradition is a unique and captivating fan experience. It's a testament to the band's willingness to embrace local culture and engage with their fans in a more personal way. While not all 'Doodles' have been well-received, the tradition continues to evolve and adapt, ensuring that each performance is a unique and memorable experience for fans. From the unexpected to the local, Metallica's 'Doodle' tradition is a true celebration of music and community.
