Metallica Ignites 2025 With “Seek and Destroy” at Lincoln Financial Field

On May 23, 2025, Metallica unleashed a thunderous performance at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, kicking off the first night of their highly anticipated “No Repeat Weekend” as part of the M72 World Tour. The stadium buzzed with electricity as thousands of fans packed the venue, eager to experience a setlist that would be completely different from the following night’s show.

The evening began with the iconic AC/DC anthem “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” blasting through the speakers, stirring up the crowd’s excitement. As the lights dimmed, Ennio Morricone’s “The Ecstasy of Gold” rolled in—a ritual that instantly signaled the imminent eruption. Without delay, Metallica exploded onto the stage with “Creeping Death,” igniting the audience into a frenzy.

Metallica’s set spanned across decades of musical evolution, seamlessly blending their classic anthems with material from their latest album. Fan favorites like “Harvester of Sorrow,” “Holier Than Thou,” and “King Nothing” reminded concertgoers of the band’s timeless presence, while newer tracks like “72 Seasons” and “If Darkness Had a Son” demonstrated their commitment to pushing creative boundaries.

A particularly emotional moment arrived when the band performed the instrumental “Orion,” a tribute to late bassist Cliff Burton. The entire stadium stood in reverent silence, fully absorbed in the intricate harmonies and atmospheric power of the piece. It was a poignant reminder of Metallica’s roots and the emotional weight that still underpins their artistry.

As the night pushed forward, the emotional pull of “Nothing Else Matters” created a stunning contrast. James Hetfield’s voice rang out with sincerity, his delivery connecting deeply with the crowd. That moment of vulnerability gave way to the crushing heaviness of “Sad but True,” which sent waves of headbanging through the sea of fans packed into the stadium.

The build toward the finale reached its peak when “Fuel” erupted from the stage, setting the tone for what came next. As soon as the unmistakable opening riff of “Seek & Destroy” tore through the speakers, the stadium erupted. Every voice joined in, fists flew into the air, and Lincoln Financial Field transformed into a massive chorus of metal euphoria.

“Seek & Destroy” has always held a special place in Metallica’s legacy. First appearing on their debut album Kill ‘Em All, the song has become a signature live staple. Known for its audience interaction and extended live jams, the track allows Hetfield to engage directly with fans, and this night was no exception—call-and-response chants echoed throughout the field with raw intensity.

The performance of “Seek & Destroy” stood as the pinnacle of the evening. The synergy between the band and the audience created a nearly overwhelming atmosphere of shared energy. The blend of nostalgia, aggression, and celebration captured everything that makes Metallica’s live shows so unforgettable.

By embracing the “No Repeat Weekend” format, Metallica reaffirmed their dedication to giving fans a one-of-a-kind experience. This bold move allowed them to explore deeper cuts, reward longtime followers, and highlight the vastness of their discography—all while delivering a show that never lost momentum.

James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo performed with the tight cohesion and explosive chemistry only possible through decades of shared experience. Their effortless interplay, fierce energy, and precise execution made the night feel both epic and intimate.

The visual production amplified every moment, from synchronized lights to flame bursts that danced in rhythm with the music. The sound design was pristine, balancing each instrument and vocal with clarity and power that enveloped the entire stadium in metallic perfection.

Social media lit up with reactions before the final note had even faded. Fans declared “Seek & Destroy” the undisputed highlight of the night. Videos of the performance began circulating instantly, capturing Hetfield’s growl, Ulrich’s thunderous drumming, and the crowd’s thunderous unity.

As the band took their bows and left the stage, the ovation was deafening. Metallica had delivered more than just a concert—they’d created a spiritual communion between artist and audience. For many in attendance, this was not merely a performance, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Philadelphia crowd walked away not only exhilarated but grateful. For those who couldn’t attend, fan-recorded footage offered a glimpse into the spectacle. Still, nothing could truly replicate the intensity of being there as “Seek & Destroy” brought the night to an unforgettable close.