In a recent interview with the Star Tribune, Kirk Hammett opened up about how aging has impacted Metallica’s ability to tour. The band is taking a break between its two major concerts in Minneapolis this weekend to allow members to recover.

Hammett explained, “For two of the guys in the band, the shows take a lot more of a physical toll on their bodies. The age thing is definitely a bit of a factor.”

While Hammett didn’t name anyone specifically, it’s likely that James Hetfield’s voice and Lars Ulrich’s arms are facing the brunt of these physical challenges. Despite this, Hammett pointed to The Rolling Stones as a source of inspiration. “The Stones are setting another precedent playing into their 80s. That is inspiring to us, man. That’s our goal.”

This isn’t the first time Metallica has confronted the realities of aging. In May 2022, during a show in Brazil, Hetfield openly expressed his insecurities about growing older and his concern that he might not perform as well as he used to. The emotional moment occurred on May 12 at Estádio do Mineirão in Belo Horizonte. After playing “One,” Hetfield addressed the crowd, saying, “I’ve gotta tell you I wasn’t feeling very good before I came out here. I was feeling a little bit insecure like I’m an old guy, I can’t play anymore, all this bullsh*t that I tell myself in my head.”

Hetfield shared how his bandmates supported him during that vulnerable moment: “So I talked to these guys, and they helped me, as simple as that. They gave me a hug and said, ‘Hey, if you’re struggling on stage, we’ve got your back.’ And I tell you, it means the world to me. And seeing you out there, I am not alone. I am not alone, and neither are you.” Following this heartfelt confession, Ulrich, Hammett, and Robert Trujillo joined Hetfield on stage for a group hug, reaffirming their bond and support for one another.