The First Time Metallica’s Kirk Hammett Ever Heard a Wah Pedal

The wah pedal has become synonymous with Kirk Hammett’s sound, often comically so, and in a new feature with Guitar Player the Metallica axeman revealed the first time he ever heard one.

Singling out Thin Lizzy’s “Warrior” as one of five guitar solos that changed his life, Hammett offered:

“This solo was the first time I’d ever heard a wah pedal. I remember that when that sound came out of the speakers, it startled me. The one guy that I’ve always thought did not get enough credit was Brian Robertson, and his style and feel is something that I aspire to.”

Hammett shared a similar story with Metal Hammer back in 2018. Have a listen to “Warriors” below (the solo starts at the 2:00 mark) and see if you can hear any similarities to Hammett’s style.

Metallica will headline five American festivals next summer, playing two nights at each, and will tour South American in the spring; dates and tickets here.