The Shocking Truth Behind Lars Ulrich: Why Rock Legends Can’t Stand Him

Lars Ulrich on New Metallica Album: 'It's Quite a Beating'
Lars Ulrich, the drummer of Metallica, is a name that elicits strong reactions from rock fans and musicians alike.

Love him or hate him, there’s no denying that he is one of the most polarizing figures in rock history.

But what is it about this Danish-born drummer that has ruffled so many feathers?

In the world of heavy metal, where egos run high and rivalries are fierce, Ulrich stands out as a lightning rod for controversy.

From his contentious relationship with former bandmates to his infamous feuds with rock icons, the stories surrounding him are nothing short of cinematic.

Let’s dive deep into the tumultuous relationships that have defined Lars Ulrich’s career and explore why so many rockstars can’t stand him.

First, we have Jason Newsted, Metallica’s former bassist, who left the band under a cloud of tension.

Newsted’s departure was not just about musical differences; it was a culmination of years of frustration.

He often felt overshadowed by Ulrich and frontman James Hetfield, leading to a bitter split.

Metallica's Lars Ulrich Talks Social Distancing, Favorite Movies

In interviews, Newsted has hinted at the emotional toll of being in a band with Ulrich, describing it as a “toxic environment.”

The tension reached a boiling point when Newsted tried to pursue his side project, Echobrain, only to face resistance from Ulrich.

This clash of creative freedom versus band loyalty ultimately drove a wedge between them, leaving fans to wonder what could have been if Newsted had stayed.

Then there’s Dave Mustaine, the former lead guitarist of Metallica and the mastermind behind Megadeth.

Mustaine’s exit from Metallica was nothing short of dramatic.

He was kicked out of the band due to his substance abuse issues and volatile personality, but much of the blame was placed on Ulrich’s shoulders.

Mustaine has been vocal about his disdain for Ulrich over the years, claiming that he was the one who orchestrated his ousting.

In a twist of fate, Mustaine went on to create Megadeth, a band that would rival Metallica for decades.

The animosity between the two musicians has fueled countless interviews and public confrontations, making it clear that the wounds from their past have never fully healed.

Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüe also has a storied history with Ulrich.

Metallica's Lars Ulrich Says He's Still Like a 'Kid in a Candy Store'  Around Rock Stars

The two have exchanged barbs in the press, with Sixx criticizing Ulrich’s business acumen and leadership style.

In a particularly scathing interview, Sixx referred to Ulrich as “the least talented member of Metallica,” sparking outrage among Metallica fans.

Sixx’s comments highlight a broader sentiment in the rock community: that Ulrich’s success is more about his connections and less about his musical talent.

This perception has made Ulrich a target for criticism, especially among his peers who feel overshadowed by Metallica’s massive success.

Even Tommy Lee, the flamboyant drummer of Mötley Crüe, has weighed in on the Ulrich controversy.

Lee has openly mocked Ulrich’s drumming skills, suggesting that he is not fit to be in the same league as other legendary drummers.

This rivalry is emblematic of a larger issue in the rock world: the struggle for recognition and respect among musicians.

Ulrich’s brash personality and unapologetic attitude have made him both a revered and reviled figure, and Lee’s comments only add fuel to the fire.

Then there’s Jesse Hughes of Eagles of Death Metal, who has not held back in expressing his disdain for Ulrich.

Lars Ulrich on Metallica's Next Album: 'We're One Day Closer'

Hughes has criticized Ulrich’s approach to music and his treatment of fellow musicians, calling him out for being overly self-important.

This public feud highlights the deep-seated frustrations many musicians feel towards Ulrich, who they see as a gatekeeper in the industry.

Hughes’s comments resonate with a growing sentiment among artists who feel stifled by the established norms set by bands like Metallica.

The drama doesn’t stop there.

Ulrich’s infamous feud with Steve Thompson, a producer who worked on Metallica’s early albums, has also made headlines.

Thompson has accused Ulrich of being difficult to work with, claiming that his insistence on control led to creative clashes in the studio.

This conflict underscores a recurring theme in Ulrich’s career: his desire for control often alienates those around him.

As a result, many musicians have found themselves at odds with Ulrich, leading to a trail of broken relationships and bitter rivalries.

But perhaps the most shocking aspect of Ulrich’s persona is his relentless pursuit of fame and fortune.

In an industry where authenticity is revered, Ulrich’s business-savvy approach has drawn ire from many of his peers.

He has been accused of prioritizing commercial success over artistic integrity, a sentiment echoed by countless musicians who have struggled to make a name for themselves in the shadow of Metallica.

Metallica's Lars Ulrich Speaks Up on 'Master of Puppets' Mainstream  Popularity: 'It's Kind of Hard to Fully Comprehend' | Ultimate Guitar

This relentless drive for success has not only strained relationships within his band but has also alienated many in the broader rock community.

In conclusion, Lars Ulrich is a complex figure who embodies the contradictions of the rock and metal world.

His impact on Metallica is undeniable, but so are the countless feuds and rivalries that have defined his career.

From Jason Newsted and Dave Mustaine to Nikki Sixx and Jesse Hughes, the list of musicians who can’t stand him is long and varied.

As we peel back the layers of this controversial figure, we are left with a deeper understanding of the rock world’s dynamics.

Ulrich’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the cost of fame and the fragility of relationships in a cutthroat industry.

Ultimately, whether you love him or hate him, one thing is certain: Lars Ulrich is a rock legend whose legacy will continue to provoke debate and discussion for years to come.

.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.