James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke has become a polarizing phenomenon in the world of entertainment. While opinions about Corden himself vary widely, there’s no denying that the segment has hosted some unforgettable moments and guests. Now, with its expansion to Apple TV/Music, the show continues to delight audiences with its unique blend of music and comedy.
One particularly unexpected and memorable episode featured none other than heavy metal legends Metallica, alongside comedian Billy Eichner, on August 15, 2017. Eichner’s banter with the band, particularly about their taste in pop music, provided comedic gold. Despite Metallica’s initial reluctance towards pop, their impromptu rendition of Rihanna’s “Diamonds” was nothing short of sensational.
As Kirk Hammett, Lars Ulrich, and Rob Trujiilo belted out the lyrics in the backseat, frontman James Hetfield couldn’t help but express a mix of shock and amusement. His attempt to balance singing with laughter, all while navigating the road, added an extra layer of hilarity to the performance. The band’s subsequent sharing of the clip after Rihanna’s Superbowl halftime show in 2023, with a tongue-in-cheek caption, only added to its charm.
Of course, Metallica didn’t stop at Rihanna covers. Their rendition of “Enter Sandman” transformed into a raucous road-rage anthem, while a surprising rendition of “Part of Your World” from Disney’s The Little Mermaid showcased their versatility.
While it’s clear that Hetfield is the band’s designated vocalist for a reason, witnessing Metallica’s playful side in such a lighthearted setting was undeniably entertaining. Their appearance on Carpool Karaoke also solidified their place among other rock icons who have graced the show, including Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and the legendary Paul McCartney.
For a glimpse into the hilarity of Metallica’s Carpool Karaoke adventure, check out the clip here. And for an extra dose of fun, don’t miss their performance of “Enter Sandman” on children’s toy instruments on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.