Metallica's prospective residency at Las Vegas' Sphere is a unique move in the heavy rock genre, according to bassist Robert Trujillo.
In a world where music and technology collide, the Las Vegas Sphere, an audio-visual venue boasting 4D visual effects and immersive audiovisual technology, opened its doors in September 2023. Now, the question on everyone's lips is: will Metallica be the next big act to grace the stage of this cutting-edge venue?
Rumors of a potential residency began swirling in July 2025, with reports of a deal in the works for autumn 2026 concerts. While the band has neither confirmed nor denied these reports, Lars Ulrich, Metallica's drummer, hinted at the possibility during an interview on August 6, 2025. He stated that while there is nothing concrete to confirm yet, they are fans of the venue and are considering it after their "M72" World Tour concludes in mid-2026.
Kirk Hammett, Metallica’s lead guitarist, has expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of performing at the Sphere. He highlighted the venue's advanced technology and potential for a breakthrough live experience. Robert Trujillo, the band's bassist, has also shown interest, discussing the possibility of performing Metallica's instrumental song "Orion" at The Sphere.
The Sphere has previously hosted residences by Phish, Dead & Company, and the Eagles, but as of yet, no heavy rock band has performed there. If the deal goes through, Metallica would be breaking new ground, bringing their iconic sound and energy to the immersive audiovisual experience that the Sphere offers.
Metallica fans have something else to look forward to in the meantime. On August 28, the band will play one of their smallest-ever shows at the 250-capacity Stephen Talkhouse venue in Long Island, New York. This concert will celebrate the launch of Metallica's own SiriusXM channel, Maximum Metallica. The concert will be broadcast on the channel on September 1, giving fans worldwide a chance to experience a piece of the magic.
In addition to this intimate gig, Metallica has announced plans for a European tour beginning in May 2024. Gojira, Knocked Loose, Pantera, and Avatar will act as support on select dates of the tour, promising a diverse and high-energy lineup. The tour will feature the 'M72 weekend format', with Metallica playing the same venue twice with different setlists and support acts.
As we await official confirmation of a Metallica residency at the Las Vegas Sphere, one thing is certain: the band is seriously exploring the possibility. While we wait with bated breath for an announcement, fans can look forward to the European tour and the broadcast of the Stephen Talkhouse concert on Maximum Metallica. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
- Metallica, known for their heavy metal sound, has been rumored to have a potential residency at the Las Vegas Sphere in autumn 2026.
- Lars Ulrich, Metallica's drummer, has hinted at the possibility of a residency, stating they are considering the venue after their "M72" World Tour concludes in mid-2026.
- Kirk Hammett, Metallica’s lead guitarist, is enthusiastic about performing at the Sphere, appreciating the venue's advanced technology for a breakthrough live experience.
- If the deal goes through, Metallica would be the first heavy rock band to perform at the Sphere, bringing their iconic sound and energy to the immersive audiovisual experience.
- Metallica fans can also look forward to a small concert at the Stephen Talkhouse venue in Long Island, New York, on August 28, 2023, to celebrate the launch of Metallica's own SiriusXM channel, Maximum Metallica.
- The European tour, starting in May 2024, promises a diverse and high-energy lineup with Gojira, Knocked Loose, Pantera, and Avatar acting as support on select dates.
- The tour will feature the 'M72 weekend format', with Metallica playing the same venue twice with different setlists and support acts.
- As we wait for official confirmation of a Metallica residency at the Las Vegas Sphere, fans can stay updated on this developing story and enjoy the broadcast of the Stephen Talkhouse concert on Maximum Metallica.
