Metallica's "Master of Puppets" Joins Spotify Billions Club
Metallica's "Master of Puppets" has officially joined the Spotify Billions Club, marking it as the band's third track to achieve this impressive streaming milestone. Following in the footsteps of "Nothing Else Matters" and "Enter Sandman," the 1986 classic has now been streamed over a billion times, solidifying its enduring legacy in the metal genre.
Originally released as the lead single from their third studio album, "Master of Puppets" quickly became a fan favorite due to its intricate guitar work and compelling lyrics that explore themes of control and addiction. The song's technical prowess, featuring complex riffs and dynamic tempo changes, showcases the band's exceptional musicianship and has made it a staple in their live performances, being played 1,758 times according to setlist.fm.
The resurgence of "Master of Puppets" can be largely attributed to its feature in the fourth season of Netflix's "Stranger Things" in 2022. The show's inclusion of the track introduced it to a new generation, propelling it back into the charts and significantly boosting its streaming numbers worldwide. This renewed interest led Metallica to release a new official music video for the song, 36 years after its initial release, and engage with fans through a viral TikTok video that pays homage to a memorable scene from the series.
In addition to celebrating this streaming milestone, Metallica is advancing their presence in the digital realm by collaborating with Apple Music on an immersive virtual reality concert film. Set to release exclusively on Apple Vision Pro, the film features footage from their M72 World Tour and highlights their latest album, "72 Seasons." As the band prepares for a series of upcoming concerts in North America, the achievement of "Master of Puppets" joining the Billions Club underscores Metallica's enduring impact and adaptability in the ever-evolving music landscape.