Kirk Hammett
Kirk Hammett | |
|---|---|
Hammett performing with Metallica in 2025 | |
| Background information | |
| Born | Kirk Lee Hammett November 18, 1962 San Francisco, California, U.S. |
| Genres | |
| Occupation | Musician |
| Instrument | Guitar |
| Years active | 1979–present |
| Label | Blackened |
| Member of | Metallica |
| Formerly of |
|
Kirk Lee Hammett (born November 18, 1962) is an American musician. Hammett has been the lead guitarist of heavy metal band Metallica since 1983; prior to joining Metallica, he co-formed thrash metal band Exodus in 1979. In 2023, Hammett and Metallica bandmate James Hetfield were co-ranked 23rd on Rolling Stone's list of Greatest Guitarists of All Time. In 2009, Hammett was ranked number 15 in Joel McIver's book The 100 Greatest Metal Guitarists.