American heavy metal band Metallica continued their love affair with Mexico during their four-night stand at Mexico City’s Foro Sol stadium, surprising fans with a unique cover of “A.D.O.” by legendary Mexican rock band El Tri. This heartfelt tribute, performed on the third night of their M72 World Tour stop, featured bassist Robert Trujillo on lead vocals, adding a special touch to the iconic song.
Metallica’s Deep Connection with Mexico
This isn’t the first time Metallica has paid homage to Mexican music legends. Their relationship with Mexico dates back to the early 90s when the band’s self-titled “Black Album” tour included a five-night stint at Mexico City’s Palacio de los Deportes in 1993. This connection deepened in 2009 when they chose Mexico City as the location to film their live DVD, “Orgullo, Pasión y Gloria,” capturing the electrifying energy of three consecutive nights at the Foro Sol.
A History of Musical Homages
Metallica’s M72 World Tour stop in Mexico City marked their return to the country after a seven-year absence. Throughout their four-night run, the band made it a point to honor Mexican music icons. On the first night, they surprised the 65,000-strong crowd with a rendition of Los Tucanes de Tijuana’s norteño classic, “La Chona.” The second night saw them paying tribute to rock band Caifanes with their cumbia hit, “La Negra Tomasa.”
“A.D.O.” – A Song with History
El Tri’s “A.D.O.” holds a special place in Mexican culture. The song’s title refers to the Autobuses de Oriente (ADO) central bus station, one of the largest in the country. Written by veteran rocker Alex Lora, the song has become synonymous with travel and adventure for many Mexicans.
Trujillo Hints at El Tri Tribute
Adding to the anticipation, bassist Robert Trujillo, who is of Mexican descent, hinted at the possibility of an El Tri cover during a private fan event on September 21st. The event, a Q&A session with photographer Ross Halfin, saw Trujillo and guitarist Kirk Hammett engaging with fans, further fueling the excitement for Metallica’s upcoming performances.
Celebrating El Tri’s Legacy
El Tri, with a career spanning over five decades, holds a legendary status in the Mexican and Latin American rock scene. The band has sold over 30 million records worldwide and garnered four Grammy nominations for Best Latin Rock Album. In 2022, frontman Alex Lora was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Latin Recording Academy.
Metallica’s Enduring Appeal
Metallica’s decision to pay tribute to Mexican music icons highlights their deep respect for their fans and the country’s rich musical heritage. By incorporating these iconic songs into their setlist, Metallica creates a unique and unforgettable experience for their Mexican audience, further solidifying their bond with the country.
Robert Trujillo of Metallica performs in Estadio GNP Seguros on Sept. 20, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico.
Metallica’s performances in Mexico City serve as a testament to the band’s enduring popularity and their ability to connect with audiences across cultures. Their willingness to embrace and celebrate local music adds another layer to their performance, creating a truly special experience for their fans.
