Ennio Morricone, composer of the intro music for Metallica concerts, dies at 91

Legendary film score composer Ennio Morricone, Cinema Paradiso , The Hateful Eight , and many more, died today, June 6th, at the age of 91, due to complications after fracturing his femur.

Morricone's work was so influential that not only the film world is mourning his loss, but also music, and more specifically metal. This is because Metallica has used the song "The Ecstasy of Gold," from the film The Good, the Bad and the Ugly , composed by Ennio, as the introduction to their shows since 1983. The track has even been chosen for a cover by the band, which you can check out below.

The reasoning behind the song choice was explained by James Hetfield in the 80s, stating, “Originally, we had a really bad tape as an intro. Just the sound of a heart beating faster. Rubbish. So, our manager at the time had the idea to replace it with 'The Ecstasy Of Gold'. And the first time we used it, something happened. It set us up for the night and got the fans excited.”

Given the importance of the composition to the band, tributes poured in, with Metallica writing on their official page .

“The day we played 'The Ecstasy Of Gold' as our new intro in 1983 was magical!” wrote Hetfield . “It’s become part of our bloodstream, deep breath, punches, prayers, and pre-show ritual ever since. I’ve sung that tune thousands of times to warm up my throat before going on stage. Thank you Ennio for energizing us, being a huge part of our inspiration and a link between band, crew, and fans. I will always think of you as part of the Metallica family. Rest in peace Maestro Morricone.”

Check out Metallica's cover of "The Ecstasy Of Gold" below.