Metallica have directed some words at the puritanical members of their fanbase following their popularity boost from the latest series of Stranger Things. The band’s music featured in the final episode of the Netflix show’s penultimate season, with the character Eddie Munson performing the title track from the band’s 1986 album, Master Of Puppets.
As a result of the appearance, Metallica’s back catalogue has experienced a massive boost. ‘Master of Puppets’ itself has seen a gigantic jump in streams, going from 253,000 streams the day before the episode premiered to 1.43 million on 4th July. As it stands, the track currently sits at #24 on the ARIA charts – the highest position it has ever reached in Australia. The surge in popularity mirrors that enjoyed by Kate Bush’s ‘Running Up That Hill’, which also features heavily in the new season.
Metallica – ‘Master Of Puppets’
However, all is not well within the band’s diehard fanbase, with many purists criticising the fair-weather fans who have latched onto the band due to the series. One notable example, as shared by Consequence Of Sound, saw a fan apologise to the group for the influx of what have ostensibly been deemed “fake fans” of the metal outfit.
“I’m sorry Metallica for all the fake stranger things fans love ya,” wrote TikTok user nirvanaisgodtier3. Metallica, however, were far more diplomatic in their response. “Don’t be sorry,” they wrote. “If they like Puppets, chances are they’ll find plenty of other songs to get into.”
Such comments from fans even led the group to release a further statement ensuring fans, new and old, that the origin of their fan story is inconsequential to the experience of enjoying the band’s music. “FYI – EVERYONE is welcome in the Metallica Family,” the band shared on TikTok.
“Whether you’ve been a fan for 40 hours or 40 years, we all share a bond through music,” they added. “All of you started at ground zero at one point in time.”
Further Reading
Kate Bush Shares Message On ‘Running Up That Hill’ Resurgence: “It’s All Really Exciting”
Kirk Hammett Says Metallica Warned The World About Streaming
James Hetfield Emotionally Addresses Metallica Bandmates On Stage In Brazil
