Metallica Unleashes “Creeping Death” in Denver: A Night of Thunder, Unity, and Viral Metal Mayhem
Metallica’s performance of “Creeping Death” in Denver on June 27, 2025, was nothing short of electrifying. From the moment the opening riff thundered through Empower Field, the stadium erupted in a collective wave of excitement. Fans, old and new, instantly recognized the iconic song and prepared themselves for a wild ride, chanting along before the first lyric even began.
The energy inside the stadium was palpable as James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo took their places on stage. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, built over decades of playing together, and it was clear that the Denver crowd was in for an unforgettable night. The anticipation reached a fever pitch as Hetfield approached the mic, a look of determination in his eyes.
As the song kicked off, the crowd roared the “Die! Die!” chant in perfect unison—a classic Metallica ritual that has become a staple at their concerts. This powerful moment united thousands of fans under a single banner of pure, unfiltered metal energy. It’s a tradition that’s as much a part of the Metallica experience as the music itself.
The setlist for the evening was tailored specifically for the “no repeat weekend” tradition, meaning every song was exclusive to that night. This approach kept fans on their toes, never knowing which classic or deep cut would come next. “Creeping Death” stood out as one of the most anticipated songs, and Metallica delivered it with raw intensity.
The production for this tour was nothing short of spectacular. Massive screens displayed close-ups of each member, while pyrotechnics and smoke machines enhanced every drum hit and guitar solo. The lighting design bathed the band in dramatic colors, adding a visual flair that made the performance feel even larger than life.
During the instrumental break, Kirk Hammett’s guitar solo soared over the crowd, each note clear and cutting. His signature sound, combined with Trujillo’s rumbling bass, created a wall of sound that reverberated throughout the stadium. Fans responded by waving their arms and singing every word, completely immersed in the moment.
James Hetfield’s stage presence was magnetic. Between songs, he spoke to the audience, joking that everyone in attendance was now part of the “Metallica family.” This sense of camaraderie and belonging is a hallmark of Metallica shows, and Denver was no exception. Hetfield’s warmth and humor helped create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Lars Ulrich drove the song forward with relentless drumming, his energy never flagging as he powered through the complex rhythms that make “Creeping Death” so legendary. His passion behind the kit was evident, and the fans fed off his energy, moshing and headbanging with abandon.
The song’s lyrics, inspired by the biblical story of the Exodus, took on new life in a live setting. Hetfield’s gritty vocals gave the narrative an edge, making the story of liberation and struggle feel both timeless and urgent. The crowd shouted along, every lyric echoing across the field.
As the song reached its climax, the audience erupted in a final, thunderous chant. Flames shot up from the stage, illuminating the night sky and adding to the drama. It was a testament to Metallica’s ability to turn every performance into a spectacle, blending musical virtuosity with jaw-dropping showmanship.
Fans took to social media immediately after the show, sharing clips and photos of the night’s highlights. Videos of the “Creeping Death” performance quickly went viral, with viewers around the world marveling at the band’s continued power and intensity. Many commented that this performance was among Metallica’s best in recent memory.
The Denver show also broke attendance records for Empower Field, setting a new high for the most fans at a single-artist concert in the venue’s history. This achievement speaks to Metallica’s enduring popularity and the unwavering loyalty of their fanbase, even four decades into their career.
Opening acts set the stage with explosive performances of their own, amping up the crowd and setting the tone for the night. By the time Metallica took the stage, the energy was already at a boiling point, and the band wasted no time in capitalizing on that momentum.
The diversity of the setlist, which featured both classic hits and fresh material from the band’s latest album, ensured that every fan had something to look forward to. Metallica’s willingness to mix things up kept the show feeling fresh and unpredictable, a testament to their commitment to delivering a unique experience every night.
As the concert drew to a close, fireworks lit up the Denver sky, providing a fitting end to an unforgettable night. The echoes of “Creeping Death” lingered long after the band left the stage, a reminder of Metallica’s unmatched ability to create moments that stay with fans forever.
Metallica’s June 27 performance in Denver will go down as one of their most powerful and memorable shows, a night when the band and their fans came together to celebrate the enduring spirit of heavy metal. “Creeping Death” was more than just a song that night—it was an experience, a memory, and a testament to Metallica’s legendary status.