Metallica breaks attendance record with a thrilling launch of their 2025 tour in Syracuse

Metallica kicked off their highly-anticipated 2025 tour last night at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York, shattering the venue's previous attendance record held by classic rock giants The Who since 1982. With over 47,500 die-hard fans in attendance, the thrash metal legends wowed the crowd with a powerful 16-song set that included iconic hits like 'Enter Sandman,' 'Master of Puppets,' and 'Nothing Else Matters.' The concert, marking their first return to Syracuse since performing at Lollapalooza in 1996, showcased not only their musical prowess but also the logistical might behind the event, requiring nearly 80 trucks to transport their elaborate sound and lighting setup. The enthusiastic reception from the fans was palpable as frontman James Hetfield expressed gratitude, stating, 'You make us feel so good and so proud.' This performance is part of the M72 World Tour, aimed at promoting their 2023 album '72 Seasons.' Following the Syracuse show, the tour will continue with stops in Toronto and several U.S. cities before taking their act to Europe and beyond. Fans are understandably excited as Metallica continues to solidify their legacy at a time when the world of rock music often finds itself overshadowed by pop and electronic genres. While the energy of the concert was felt by those present, many expressed concern over fan engagement and the increasing presence of phones recording the experience, suggesting that bands like Metallica might one day need to consider policies restricting their use during performances. The initial excitement surrounding the concert, coupled with savvy social media sharing, seems to capture a moment in history for both the band and the venue itself, as they redirect the focus back to live music and community. Overall, this event marked a triumphant start to the 2025 leg of their tour. With an impressive line-up featuring Pantera and Suicidal Tendencies as opening acts, the stage was set for an unforgettable night, setting a new bar for future concerts at the venue and demonstrating Metallica's enduring appeal among fans of all ages.