Metallica's James Hetfield Proposes Idea for Microphone with Straw: 'That Could Be Cool'

Metallica's James Hetfield has a proposition for inventors.

During the latest episode of The Metallica Report podcast, the lead vocalist and guitarist, 60, opened up about what he believes could make performing live shows easier.

“Being able to maybe sip some water while I’m playing, you know, some kind of straw on the microphone," Hetfield said during the episode. "I don't know, something else like that. There's always something that could be cool."

Hydration wasn't the only tweak the "Enter Sandman" musician thought could be improved during performances. Since his hands are always full during guitar riffs, having free movement with the microphone can be a challenge.

However, hydration doesn’t seem to be the only thing the band can improve on while performing, according to the frontman. As he explains it, his hands are always full while riffing, so he can’t move around with a microphone quite so easily.

“I’m not holding the mic, I’m not able to, you know, go anywhere. So there are mic stations everywhere,” Hetfield said. “For our monitor guy to chase me around for all the mics, he can’t have them all open because it sounds insane, especially in an indoor stadium.”

The Metallica artist had a suggestion: “It would be nice to have some kind of...whatever. I'm sure they probably have something like that. You’re wearing something and if you’re within two feet of the microphone, it turns it on. Something like that. So it would make [the monitor’s job] a little easier and mine as well.”

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On Monday, Metallica revealed the finalists of their first-ever Metallica Marching Band Competition. 

According to a press release, more than 450 colleges and high schools across the U.S. signed up to participate since April 2023.

Professional judges chose the finalists for in the five main categories, including representatives from Conn Selmer, a company that crafts marching band instruments. Members of the Metallica chose the winners. Fan participation was encouraged for one popular vote winner, as well.

The top prize of $75,000 for a Division 1 school went to Auburn University’s marching band.