Kirk Hammett, born November 18, 1962 in San Francisco, California, is a guitarist recognized worldwide for his work with the heavy metal band Metallica. Hammett began his musical career at a young age, founding the band Exodus in 1979. In 1983, he was invited to join Metallica, replacing Dave Mustaine just before the recording of their debut album “Kill ‘Em All”. Since then, Hammett has become a fundamental piece of Metallica’s sound, contributing his technical skill and distinctive style of fast, melodic soloing.
Throughout his career with Metallica, Hammett has co-written many of the band’s biggest hits, including “Enter Sandman”, “The Unforgiven”, and “Master of Puppets”. Their influence and creativity have been crucial in the evolution of metal, helping Metallica become one of the genre’s most successful and revered bands.
Hammett is known for his love of horror and science fiction, influences that are often reflected in his music and his iconic guitars, such as his famous “Ouija.” Aside from his work with Metallica, Hammett has also released a solo project and continues to be an influential figure in rock and metal music. His legacy as a virtuoso guitarist and his contribution to Metallica’s success have established him as a heavy metal legend.
Kirk Hammett is the guitarist of the most famous metal band in the world, Metallica. His sharp and forceful sound is as famous as his collection of guitars with designs inspired by the Ouija board or movies like The Mummy.
The one you can see at Guitar Legends Hall is unique: there is only one TS Customs Death Magnetic – based on the album cover of the same title – and it was hand-built especially for Hammett. The musician used it with Metallica in studio recordings and the “Magnetic Tour.”
