Green Day was scheduled to play at Voodoo Fest last night in New Orleans but due to ongoing problems with frontman Billie Joe Armstong they were forced to cancel the show. Metallica stepped in to fill the spot and paid tribute to the band by covering the first verse of American Idiot before starting their set.
Hetfield took the stage and told the crowd that the world needed Green Day and that he hopes Armstrong can get his act together.
Hetfield said:
“You’re still hoping that Green Day is going to show up, right? So am I. They’re getting help alright. They’re getting it sorted out and we’re stepping up for them. Hopefully they get it together. Because the world needs them. I think so.”
Metallica then launched into the first verse of American Idiot. Hetfield let the crowd sing the lyrics because he apparently didn’t know the words. After getting through the first verse Hetfield stopped playing and told the crowd that he didn’t have time to learn the full song.
Hetfield said:
“Then there’s another part and another. But that’s all we had time to learn.”
Here’s a video of Metallica covering Green Day at Voodoo Fest.
Billie Joe Armstrong was recently admitted into rehab and the band was forced to cancel the rest of their 2012 shows.
The band released a statement today , saying:
“Obviously the timing for this isn’t ideal, but Billie Joe’s well-being is our main concern. We are happy to say that Billie Joe is doing well, and we want to thank you all for the outpouring of support and well wishes that we have received, and we can’t wait to see you all again soon.”
