Corrosion of Conformity’s Pepper Keenan Auditions for Metallica
The Early ’90s Audition
In a recent appearance on the Garza Podcast, Pepper Keenan, frontman of Corrosion of Conformity, revealed a surprising chapter of his musical journey: his audition for Metallica in the early ’90s. This revelation comes after previous discussions regarding his 2000s audition to replace bassist Jason Newsted.
Context of the Audition
The audition opportunity arose during a tumultuous time for Metallica. In 1992, while the band was on tour with Guns N’ Roses, frontman James Hetfield suffered second-degree burns onstage due to an infamous pyro accident. This incident forced the band to cancel and postpone several tour dates as Hetfield recuperated in the hospital.
Receiving the Call
Keenan recounted the moment he received the call from Metallica’s management, Q Prime, at three in the morning while on tour with the Rollins Band. “They were putting the feelers out and trying to find guitar players who could come in and play guitar,” he recalled. Faced with the daunting task of stepping in for Hetfield, Keenan expressed his concerns about the situation, emphasizing the challenge of filling Hetfield’s shoes during a major stadium tour.
The Preparation
After agreeing to consider the opportunity, Keenan received a fax containing Metallica’s music to practice. He shared the news with his bandmates and Henry Rollins before quickly flying out to Colorado, where Hetfield was recovering.
The Audition Experience
Upon arriving in Denver, Keenan found himself in a top-secret location with high-quality gear, preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. He suggested splitting the set with Andreas Kisser of Sepultura, acknowledging the immense pressure Metallica was under to resume their tour amidst financial losses. However, the situation was surreal for a 20-year-old like Keenan.
Outcome of the Audition
Ultimately, Metallica chose to have John Marshall, the guitar tech for Kirk Hammett and former guitarist for Metal Church, play Hetfield’s parts while he focused on his recovery. Keenan’s audition was one of the few opportunities extended to select guitarists during this critical period.
The Second Audition: A Decade Later
Fast forward to the early 2000s, and Keenan found himself auditioning once again for Metallica, this time for the bassist position vacated by Newsted. During this tryout, he encountered a moment of realization that he might not secure the gig when asked to play one of their newer songs from the album St. Anger.
The Challenge
Keenan described the experience in an interview with Guitar World, noting that the band seemed to challenge him with unfamiliar material. He recalled, “I hit the blower knob on my bass and just blasted through. They were like ‘What the fuck are you doing?’” The moment highlighted the complexities of auditioning for a band known for its heavy, intricate sound.
Friendship with Metallica
Despite the missed opportunities, Keenan’s relationship with Hetfield and Metallica has endured over the years. Their mutual respect and camaraderie continue to thrive, showcasing the bonds forged in the music industry.
Conclusion
Pepper Keenan’s experiences with Metallica reflect both the challenges and the unexpected twists in the life of a musician. From auditioning to fill in for a rock legend to navigating the pressures of a major audition, Keenan’s journey serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the music world. His long-standing friendship with Metallica underscores the connections that can arise from such unique experiences.
FAQs
Did Pepper Keenan ever join Metallica?
No, Pepper Keenan did not officially join Metallica but auditioned for the band during the early ’90s and again in the early 2000s.
What caused James Hetfield’s burns during the concert?
James Hetfield sustained second-degree burns due to a pyro accident during a performance of “Fade to Black” when he accidentally stepped over misplaced pyro effects.
Who played guitar for Metallica while Hetfield was recovering?
John Marshall, Metallica’s guitar tech and former guitarist for Metal Church, played Hetfield’s guitar parts during his recovery period.
What is the significance of the relationship between Corrosion of Conformity and Metallica?
The relationship highlights the camaraderie and mutual respect between artists in the heavy metal and hard rock community, with both bands influencing each other’s music and careers.
