Why Did Metallica Cover Whiskey in the Jar? The True Story of Influence
Most people looking for why Metallica covered "Whiskey in the Jar" often assume it was a calculated move for commercial success or a random choice from a hat. The truth is far simpler and more authentic: Metallica covered "Whiskey in the Jar" primarily out of a deep respect for their musical roots and, specifically, as a direct homage to Thin Lizzy, whose version was a significant influence on the band members. It was a natural fit for their 1998 covers album, Garage Inc., which aimed to showcase the music that shaped them.
First, Define the Question Properly
When fans ask why Metallica covered this particular song, they’re usually trying to understand the band’s motivation. Was it a strategic decision? Did they have a personal connection to the tune? Understanding this distinguishes a genuine artistic choice from a mere album filler.
The Real Reason: A Nod to Influences
Metallica has always been transparent about their influences, and Garage Inc. was a testament to that. "Whiskey in the Jar" found its way onto the album for several key reasons:
- Thin Lizzy’s Impact: Thin Lizzy’s 1972 hard rock rendition of the traditional Irish folk song was a favorite among Metallica’s members, particularly James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett. Thin Lizzy’s blend of hard rock and melodic sensibilities deeply resonated with them. Covering their version was a direct salute to one of their foundational bands.
- The Garage Inc. Project: The entire concept of Garage Inc. was to record and release songs that had influenced Metallica throughout their careers, many of which they had played in their early garage days. This wasn’t about chasing trends but about celebrating their musical lineage. "Whiskey in the Jar" fit this ethos perfectly.
- Connection to Traditional Folk: While Thin Lizzy introduced them to the hard rock arrangement, the song itself has deep roots as a traditional Irish folk song. This connection to a timeless, storytelling piece of music likely appealed to the band’s appreciation for raw, enduring artistry. For more on the track’s long history and enduring appeal, you might be interested in a deeper dive into the lyrics and legacy of "Whiskey in the Jar."
The Beers People Keep Calling the Strongest, But Aren’t Really
It’s easy to fall into common misconceptions about this cover:
- Myth: Metallica Wrote "Whiskey in the Jar." This is perhaps the most common mistake. The song is centuries old, a traditional Irish folk ballad. Metallica’s version, like Thin Lizzy’s, is an interpretation.
- Myth: It Was Purely a Commercial Play. While the cover was incredibly successful, winning a Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2000 and exposing the song to a new generation, its inclusion on Garage Inc. was driven by genuine appreciation rather than just market strategy. The album itself was a passion project.
- Myth: It Was a Random Pick. Given the band’s consistent references to their influences, "Whiskey in the Jar" was far from random. It was a song ingrained in their musical consciousness.
The Impact and Legacy
Metallica’s cover of "Whiskey in the Jar" didn’t just honor their predecessors; it gave the song a thunderous new life, introducing it to millions of metal fans worldwide. Their heavy, driving rendition proved that a classic folk tune could be powerfully reinterpreted through a hard rock lens, resonating with a new audience without losing its core charm. It became a fan favorite and a staple in their live sets for years. If you’re ever tempted to perform this classic yourself, make sure you don’t make these common mistakes when belting out "Whiskey in the Jar."
Final Verdict
If you’re asking about the genuine motivation, Metallica covered "Whiskey in the Jar" as a heartfelt tribute to Thin Lizzy and as part of their broader mission with Garage Inc. to honor their musical inspirations. If you’re looking at its impact, it became one of their most popular and critically acclaimed covers, a testament to their ability to infuse classic material with their unique power. Ultimately, it was an homage that became a legacy.