The heavy metal band that inspired Metallica's frontman to play music
In short: Before Metallica became a global powerhouse, Lars Ulrich sat in a Hollywood club in 1980 and witnessed a performance by the hard rock band Y&T. That single night of watching their passion for the craft served as the definitive turning point that led him to pick up an instrument.
Formed in Oakland, California, in 1972, Y&T (originally Yesterday & Today) spent their early years playing covers before cementing a classic lineup in 1974. This shift allowed them to begin writing original material. They eventually signed with London Records after being spotted by the label's president while performing with Queen during the 'Night at the Opera' tour.
The band’s trajectory was marked by significant commercial friction. While they achieved massive recognition in Europe and Japan, their domestic success in the United States was often hampered by poor promotion from record labels. For instance, despite critical acclaim for albums like Earthshaker (1981) and Black Tiger (1982), they struggled to gain mainstream American exposure until later releases like In Rock We Trust (1984).
The band's legacy is preserved through a mix of high-charting hits and enduring live presence. Their 1985 hit 'Summertime Girls' became their highest-charting single, appearing in films like Real Genius and the television series Baywatch. Beyond the charts, their influence persists as a foundational moment for heavy metal; Lars Ulrich specifically cited Y&T’s visible love for their craft as his primary inspiration to become a musician.
The group has navigated decades of lineup changes due to health issues and personal struggles. Original members Leonard Haze and Bob Gardner both left the band, while bassist Phil Kennemore passed away in 2011 after being diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer during a world tour. Despite these challenges, the band remains active, releasing acoustic EPs and continuing to perform the tracks that defined their career.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Y&T
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