Metallica Stuns Washington D.C. with Bold Cover of Elton John’s “Funeral for a Friend”
Metallica’s powerful performance of Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding at the 2024 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song concert was an unforgettable moment. Held at the prestigious DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C., the event honored the legendary songwriting duo of Elton John and Bernie Taupin. Metallica, known for their intense and raw energy, took the stage and offered a unique interpretation of John’s 1973 classic, delivering a striking blend of metal and rock that captivated the audience. The band’s bold choice to cover this epic track surprised many, but their execution was masterful, paying deep respect to John’s musical legacy while infusing their signature sound.
This wasn’t just a routine performance; it was a historical tribute. The Gershwin Prize, awarded to John and Taupin, celebrates artists whose work exemplifies the standard of excellence in popular song composition. Metallica’s participation added a thrilling element to the event, marking the intersection of two iconic music worlds—metal and classic rock. Metallica had long expressed admiration for Elton John, and their bond had been solidified through their 2021 collaboration on The Metallica Blacklist album, where John appeared alongside Miley Cyrus in a cover of “Nothing Else Matters.”
The 10-minute song, Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding, is one of John’s most intricate compositions, merging classical piano with rock in a sweeping narrative of loss and emotional upheaval. Metallica’s version honored the grandeur of the original while amplifying the drama with their intense guitar riffs and driving percussion. It was clear from the outset that this was no ordinary cover—it was a reimagining of the track with an entirely new energy. As James Hetfield’s vocals roared through the hall, the crowd—comprising both Metallica’s hardcore fans and Elton John devotees—rose to their feet, applauding the remarkable crossover of genres.
What made this performance even more special was the reaction from Elton John and Bernie Taupin, both in attendance. John, seated in the front row, smiled broadly, seemingly moved by Metallica’s fiery interpretation. The duo, who had penned timeless classics for over five decades, seemed genuinely honored by the diversity of the tributes that night, but Metallica’s stood out for its boldness and sheer power. Bernie Taupin later commented on the unexpected nature of seeing Metallica perform their work, noting how the song had taken on a new life in the hands of the metal legends.
The performance was part of a broader night of tributes, with artists like Joni Mitchell, Brandi Carlile, Annie Lennox, and Maren Morris also contributing to the celebration. Each performer brought their own style to the catalog of Elton John and Bernie Taupin, but Metallica’s performance undoubtedly left the most lasting impression. The band’s interpretation of Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding was a reminder of how music can transcend genres and unite audiences from vastly different musical backgrounds. Metallica, often seen as the vanguard of heavy metal, showed their versatility and their deep respect for the songwriting craft.
The audience’s reaction was electric, with some notable attendees—including U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson—bobbing their heads along to the performance. The hall was filled with a palpable energy, the kind of moment that only happens when unexpected musical collaborations unfold in real time. Metallica’s rendition of the Elton John classic was nothing short of transformative, proving once again why the band remains one of the most dynamic forces in the music industry today.
For Metallica, this was more than just a tribute; it was a chance to connect with the music that had influenced them in their early years. Both Hetfield and Lars Ulrich have cited Elton John as an artist they greatly admire, and performing at an event honoring him felt like a full-circle moment for the band. The performance also reinforced the band’s ability to transcend the boundaries of metal and explore new musical territories, a hallmark of their long career.
The full concert is set to air on PBS, giving audiences across the nation a chance to witness this historic event. Fans who weren’t in attendance will soon have the opportunity to see Metallica’s breathtaking performance, alongside tributes from other legendary artists. The Gershwin Prize ceremony was a testament to the enduring influence of Elton John and Bernie Taupin, and Metallica’s contribution was a fitting homage to their groundbreaking work.
In the grand scheme of musical tributes, this performance by Metallica is likely to be remembered for years to come. It showcased their ability to evolve, adapt, and pay homage to the very best in songwriting, while still staying true to their own roots in heavy metal. Metallica’s Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding cover not only honored Elton John and Bernie Taupin but also solidified the band’s place in the pantheon of artists who have shaped the musical landscape for generations.
