Metallica rumored for Vegas Sphere residency show
Metallica is reportedly in negotiations to secure a residency at the Las Vegas Sphere in the fall of 2026, marking a significant milestone for the heavy metal band and the iconic $2.3 billion venue [1][2][3].
The Las Vegas Sphere, which opened in September 2023, is a state-of-the-art venue that boasts cutting-edge technology, including a 160,000-square-foot 16K resolution screen enveloping the audience, a sophisticated sound system that targets audio precisely, and seats that respond with vibrations to the music [1][2]. The venue has already hosted major acts like U2, Dead & Company, Phish, The Eagles, Kenny Chesney, and the Backstreet Boys [1][3].
If the deal is finalized, Metallica would become the first heavy metal act to perform at the Sphere. Kirk Hammett, Metallica’s guitarist, has expressed enthusiasm about the venue's technology, calling it a great example of the future of live entertainment using modern tech and AI [1][2].
Metallica’s residency is expected to follow their "M72" world tour dates, which include a European stadium leg from May to July 2026. The fall 2026 timeframe for the Sphere residency would come after these tour dates conclude [1][2][3].
The potential Metallica residency at the Sphere, if confirmed, would further solidify the band's status as a major player in the rock music industry. It would also help address the venue's unprofitability issues, given its recent controversies [6].
The source's statement suggests a potential Metallica residency at the Sphere, but no official confirmation has been made regarding the specifics or dates of the residency [2][4]. The news comes from reports in the Las Vegas Review-Journal [5].
Metallica's world tour will resume in Perth, Australia, and will come to an end in London, England on July 5, 2026. This leaves a late fall residency at the Sphere a possibility [3].
If the residency is confirmed, it would be a significant event for the rock music industry and a testament to Metallica's enduring popularity.
[1] Las Vegas Review-Journal [2] Billboard [3] NME [4] Rolling Stone [5] Las Vegas Review-Journal [6] Forbes
In the potential Metallica residency at the Las Vegas Sphere, Metallica would become the first heavy metal act to perform at the technologically advanced venue, adding to the distinguished lineup of entertainment giants that have graced its stage. The residency, expected to follow Metallica's M72 world tour, could further solidify Metallica's status as a major player in the rock music industry and potentially address the Sphere's unprofitability issues.
