Watch Metallica Cover Elton John's Funeral For A Friend

If you’re a fan of Metallica and Elton John, or simply love unique live cover performances, you’re in for a treat. This article compiles the best pro-filmed footage of Metallica performing their electrifying cover of Elton John’s iconic track, ‘Funeral For A Friend / Love Lies Bleeding.’ Whether you’re a seasoned metalhead, a classic rock enthusiast, or a dedicated collector of live concert videos, these performances showcase the band’s versatility and respect for musical legends. Read on to discover where to watch, what makes each performance special, and how to choose the best footage for your collection.

1. Metallica’s 2017 Orion Music + More Festival Cover

At the 2017 Orion Music + More Festival in Detroit, Metallica delivered a powerful rendition of ‘Funeral For A Friend / Love Lies Bleeding.’ Filmed professionally, this performance captures the raw energy of the band as they seamlessly blend their thrash metal roots with Elton’s elaborate composition. The footage highlights Kirk Hammett’s expressive guitar solos and James Hetfield’s commanding vocals, making it a must-watch for fans who appreciate a heavy, emotionally charged interpretation.

2. Live at the Global Citizen Festival 2018

This performance from the 2018 Global Citizen Festival in New York City features Metallica covering Elton John’s piece with a full symphony orchestra backing them up. Filmed with high production quality, it offers a cinematic experience that emphasizes the grandeur of the arrangement. The collaboration showcases Metallica’s ability to adapt their style to more orchestral sounds, making it a unique viewing experience for fans of both artists.

3. Metallica’s 2019 S&M2 Concert

During their 2019 S&M2 concert at San Francisco’s Chase Center, Metallica performed a stirring version of ‘Funeral For A Friend / Love Lies Bleeding’ as part of their symphonic set with the San Francisco Symphony. The professional footage captures the majestic merging of metal and classical music, with conductor Michael Tilson Thomas leading the orchestra. This performance is highly regarded for its emotional depth and technical precision, making it a top pick for collectors and new viewers alike.

4. The 2020 Livestream from Metallica’s Headquarters

Amid the global pandemic, Metallica hosted a special livestream performance of the song from their headquarters in San Rafael, California. Though more intimate, the pro filming quality ensures clear visuals of Kirk Hammett’s guitar work and Lars Ulrich’s dynamic drumming. This version offers a behind-the-scenes feel and demonstrates the band’s resilience and dedication to their craft during challenging times.

5. Metallica’s 2022 World Tour Show in Berlin

Captured during their 2022 European tour, this concert footage from Berlin features Metallica’s energetic cover of Elton John’s classic. The professional filming emphasizes the crowd’s enthusiasm and the band’s tight performance, with detailed shots of James Hetfield’s vocals and Kirk Hammett’s guitar solos. It’s a great example of Metallica’s ability to reinterpret legendary songs live with intensity and respect.

6. Fan-Filmed Highlight from Download Festival 2016

While not professionally shot, this fan-filmed clip from Download Festival in 2016 has gained popularity for its raw energy and close-up shots of the band. Despite lower production quality, it captures the visceral excitement of Metallica’s performance, making it worth watching for those who want a more authentic, unfiltered view of the band’s live power.

7. Metallica’s 2014 Rock in Rio Performance

Filmed at the 2014 Rock in Rio festival, this footage showcases Metallica’s mastery over Elton John’s composition, with a focus on the band’s tight rhythm section and Kirk Hammett’s expressive guitar work. The high-quality filming and enthusiastic crowd make this a memorable performance that highlights Metallica’s versatility and musical respect.

8. Official Music Video Compilation

In addition to live performances, the official Metallica YouTube channel hosts a compilation of studio and live footage of their cover. Though more polished and less spontaneous, this collection offers a clear, professional look at how Metallica approaches Elton John’s song, perfect for viewers who prefer a curated viewing experience.

9. Behind-the-Scenes Rehearsal Footage

For fans eager to see the preparation behind the performance, some official clips show Metallica rehearsing their cover in the studio. This footage provides insight into the band’s arrangement process and showcases their musical chemistry, making it a valuable addition to any collection of cover performances.

10. Rare Archive Footage from 1989

Although less common, some rare archive footage exists of Metallica rehearsing or performing a version of the song in the late 1980s. These historic clips offer a glimpse into the band’s early experimentation with different styles, and while quality varies, they are a fascinating look at Metallica’s evolving sound.

How to Choose

When selecting footage of Metallica covering Elton John’s ‘Funeral For A Friend / Love Lies Bleeding,’ consider the recording quality, the performance setting, and the authenticity of the rendition. Professional recordings at major festivals or symphony concerts tend to have superior visual and audio clarity, providing a more immersive experience. Think about whether you prefer a high-energy live show, a more orchestral interpretation, or a behind-the-scenes rehearsal—each offers a different perspective on the performance. Additionally, check the date and context of the performance to find versions that align with your musical tastes, whether you want a historically significant clip or a recent, polished rendition.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Metallica’s cover of Elton John’s song officially released?

No, most of these performances are live concert videos and not officially released singles. They are available on YouTube and concert archives.

2. Which performance is considered the best?

Many fans regard the 2019 S&M2 concert as the most majestic and well-produced, blending orchestral grandeur with Metallica’s intensity.

3. Can I find professional footage of the 2017 Orion Festival performance online?

Yes, high-quality videos of this performance are available on official concert channels and fan uploads with excellent production value.

4. Are fan-filmed videos worth watching?

Absolutely, especially for capturing the raw energy and spontaneous moments, though they may lack the clarity of professional recordings.

5. How does Metallica interpret Elton John’s song differently from the original?

Metallica’s version emphasizes heavier guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and a more intense tempo, transforming the orchestral and piano-driven original into a metal epic.

6. Is there a recommended version for new fans?

The 2019 S&M2 performance is highly recommended for its clarity, emotional depth, and orchestral collaboration, making it accessible for newcomers.

Final Thoughts

Metallica’s covers of Elton John’s ‘Funeral For A Friend / Love Lies Bleeding’ showcase their versatility and respect for musical legends. Whether you prefer a grand symphonic performance, a raw fan-filmed clip, or a recent concert, there’s a version that captures the band’s powerful interpretation. Exploring these performances offers a unique insight into how metal legends honor and reimagine classic compositions, providing fans with a rich auditory and visual experience that bridges genres and eras. Dive into these performances and experience Metallica’s fearless approach to musical experimentation firsthand.

Watch Metallica Cover Elton John’s Funeral For A Friend