Metallica Turned “Whiskey in the Jar” Into a Stadium-Shaking Anthem in Philadelphia on May 25, 2025

On May 25, 2025, Metallica delivered a powerhouse performance at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia as part of their M72 World Tour. The night was filled with electrifying energy, culminating in a standout rendition of “Whiskey in the Jar” that left fans in awe.

The concert kicked off with the iconic “Creeping Death,” instantly setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable night. The band moved seamlessly through a setlist that spanned decades, including fan favorites like “Harvester of Sorrow,” “King Nothing,” and “Master of Puppets.”

As the evening progressed, excitement buzzed through the air as fans anticipated the arrival of “Whiskey in the Jar.” Though rooted in traditional Irish folk, Metallica’s version—heavily inspired by Thin Lizzy’s 1972 rendition—has become a beloved staple of their live performances since its debut on the 1998 Garage Inc. album.

When the first riffs of “Whiskey in the Jar” rang out across the stadium, the crowd erupted. James Hetfield’s raw, powerful vocals combined with Kirk Hammett’s blazing guitar work gave the song a new, gritty energy. In that moment, tens of thousands of fans became a single voice, roaring the chorus back at the stage.

The song’s story of betrayal and rebellion struck a particular chord in Philadelphia, a city steeped in revolutionary spirit. The crowd’s thunderous sing-along turned the performance into more than just a song—it became a shared emotional release, echoing across the open night air.

This moment was more than a setlist highlight—it was a perfect example of Metallica’s genre-bending strength. Blending hard rock with folk roots, their take on “Whiskey in the Jar” showed the band’s musical range and their deep respect for rock tradition.

The setlist also showcased Metallica’s present and future, including fresh tracks from their 2023 release 72 Seasons. Songs like “If Darkness Had a Son” and the title track brought modern firepower to a show rich with nostalgia, proving the band’s creative flame still burns strong.

Opening acts Pantera and Suicidal Tendencies delivered fierce performances that amped up the crowd long before Metallica hit the stage. Their presence added an extra layer of intensity, spotlighting the collaborative spirit of the tour and honoring heavy metal’s roots.

The production was absolutely next-level. With massive pyrotechnics, immersive lighting rigs, and a panoramic stage setup, every element worked in harmony to amplify the performance. Each transition and explosion was timed to perfection, elevating the entire experience.

Fans flooded social media with reactions before the show even ended. Countless clips of “Whiskey in the Jar” circulated online within hours, with viewers praising the song’s gritty energy and the crowd’s unstoppable engagement. For many, that moment defined the entire night.

Including “Whiskey in the Jar” in the set wasn’t just a musical choice—it was a statement. It paid tribute to Metallica’s influences, especially Thin Lizzy, while reminding everyone that they could take a decades-old folk tune and make it thunder like one of their own.

The connection between Metallica and the audience was undeniable all night. Hetfield’s playful comments and the band’s tight, focused performance created an atmosphere that felt more like a giant family reunion than a stadium concert.

When the final notes of “Master of Puppets” rang out, the crowd responded with overwhelming roars and cheers that echoed across the city. It was a finale worthy of legends, closing a show that had been nothing short of spectacular from beginning to end.

Reflecting on the concert, it’s clear Metallica’s Philly stop was more than just another date on the M72 tour—it was a moment of living history. It brought together generations of fans to celebrate the raw, unfiltered power of live music, reminding everyone why Metallica remains a force unlike any other.

For those who were there, May 25, 2025, will go down as the night Metallica made “Whiskey in the Jar” more than just a cover—it became a battle cry, a celebration, and a masterclass in how to own a stage.