Metallica have finally wrapped up their M72 World Tour, more than three years after its first show.
In all, the tour spanned 99 shows, starting in Amsterdam, Netherlands on April 27, 2023 and ending in London on July 5, 2026.
During that time, the M72 World Tour touched 26 different countries. The U.S., of course, got the most dates with a total of 39 shows, followed by Germany with seven and Canada and the U.K. with six shows each.
Overview of the M72 World Tour
As Metallica concluded their extensive M72 World Tour, fans were treated to an impressive array of performances that celebrated their rich discography while promoting their latest album, “72 Seasons.” The tour not only showcased the band’s musical evolution but also their ability to connect with audiences across the globe.
2023 Highlights
The first leg of the M72 World Tour kicked off in Amsterdam, Netherlands, shortly after the release of “72 Seasons.” This leg was characterized by a strong focus on tracks from the new album, particularly “Lux Aeterna,” which dominated setlists.
Most played: “Lux Aeterna” (15 times); “Master of Puppets,” “Nothing Else Matters,” “Sad But True,” “Creeping Death,” “Enter Sandman,” “Fade to Black,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “Fuel,” “One,” “Orion,” “Seek & Destroy” (14 times)
Least played: “I Disappear,” “Cyanide” (one time); “Through the Never” (two times); “Fight Fire With Fire” (three times)
2024 Highlights
The following year saw another substantial leg of the tour, with performances across North America and Europe. Metallica continued to emphasize songs from “72 Seasons,” with both “Lux Aeterna” and the title track earning spots among the most frequently played.
Most played: “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “Lux Aeterna,” “Master of Puppets,” “Nothing Else Matters,” “72 Seasons,” “Creeping Death,” “Enter Sandman,” “One,” “Sad But True,” “Seek & Destroy,” and “Shadows Follow” (16 times)
Least played: “You Must Burn,” “Whiskey in a Jar (Cover),” “Through the Never,” “Breadfan (Cover),” and “Am I Evil (Cover)” (one time)
2025 Highlights
2025 marked the busiest year for the M72 World Tour, with 29 shows. Here, Metallica began to shift away from the newer material, focusing instead on fan-favorite classics. The band also expanded their reach, visiting regions like Australia and the Middle East for the first time.
Most played: “Creeping Death,” “For Whom The Bell Tolls,” “Master of Puppets,” “Enter Sandman,” “Fuel,” “Nothing Else Matters,” “One,” “Sad But True,” and “Seek & Destroy” (22 times)
Least played: “Until It Sleeps,” “The Shortest Straw,” and “No Leaf Clover” (one time); “Too Far Gone?,” “Inamorata,” and “Hit The Lights” (two times)
2026 Highlights
The final leg of the M72 World Tour consisted of 16 shows in Europe, where fans experienced a mix of Metallica’s timeless classics. Notably, “The Unforgiven” made its debut as a frequently played song during this leg.
Most played: “Creeping Death,” “Enter Sandman,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “Fuel,” “Master of Puppets,” “Nothing Else Matters,” “One,” “Sad But True,” “Seek & Destroy,” “The Unforgiven,” and “Wherever I May Roam” (12 times)
Least played: “The Shortest Straw,” “Hit the Lights,” “Hardwired,” and “Fight Fire With Fire” (one time)
Conclusion
As the M72 World Tour comes to a close, Metallica has once again solidified their status as rock icons. With a commitment to delivering unique setlists and memorable performances, the band has engaged fans around the world for more than three years. While the tour may have ended, fans eagerly anticipate their upcoming residency in Las Vegas, promising even more electrifying shows to come.
FAQs
When did the M72 World Tour begin and end?
The M72 World Tour began on April 27, 2023, in Amsterdam and concluded on July 5, 2026, in London.
How many shows were part of the M72 World Tour?
The tour consisted of a total of 99 shows across 26 different countries.
What were the most played songs during the tour?
Some of the most played songs included “Creeping Death,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” and “Lux Aeterna,” with varying frequencies throughout the years.
Where will Metallica perform next?
Metallica will begin a 24-show residency at Sphere in Las Vegas starting October 1, 2026.
