Guitarist posted on Facebook
Testament guitarist Alex Skolnick posted a text on Facebook defending Metallica's controversial duet with Lady Gaga , which took place at the Grammys last weekend.
The performance was marred by a technical problem with James Hetfield's microphone, which malfunctioned for much of the show, and by presenter Laverne Cox forgetting to introduce Metallica when introducing the act. See her text:
“A good idea in theory. It should have gone down in history as a great success. Unfortunately, it was overshadowed by microphone problems (no one can be blamed for the performance) and a failed introduction (please make sure the presenters rehearse before going on stage) (…)
I saw some comments accusing Lady Gaga of letting James down, saying 'she didn't help,' while others argue that she 'saved him' and 'saved the day.' Both are wrong: She (and the guys) were all wearing headphones which – as anyone who's ever used them can tell you – provide a different mix than what the audience receives. You don't hear anything else. The first thing you assume when you don't hear a voice or another part that should be there is that there's a problem with the headphones you're using, which actually happens several times (who would guess – in the heat of the performance – that Hetfield's microphone wouldn't be on? At the Grammys?!).
In other words, she had no idea and only did her part. So, with all that said, to those who spoke ill of her, I think you should consider the following:
A) What other mainstream pop star would dare to go on stage with Metallica (or any other metal band)?
B) Who else could perform with Tony Bennett at one moment and with Metallica the next, with equal love and appreciation for both?
C) Sure, it was a bit extravagant for someone more interested in Metallica than in her. But then again, she's Gaga, extravagance is her middle name, or it should be.
D) Yes, she has a very theatrical performance, but she's also someone who can destroy with just her voice and piano (which I hope she does again someday).
E) Given her and Lars's interest in doing the unexpected with music, it made perfect sense for the two of them to work together.
F) In the end, it sounded right in tone, if you disregard the image and just listen? Absolutely! Great choice of music as well.
The only thing I would change (besides the accidental problems) is this: Why on earth was there a Zumba class happening on stage? Whose idea was that? Put some real fans up there to give it that rock effect (like Metallica does at some shows), but a bunch of dancers and pop models in metal-style outfits gave it a really strange vibe. Other than that, it's all positive and I really hope they fix it and try again.”
Watch the video of the performance:
