Metallica have shared a stripped-back take on Alice in Chains’ single, “Would?” during a virtual event that saw Alice In Chains honoured with the annual Museum Of Pop Culture (MoPOP) Founders Award in their home city of Seattle. Congratulating the achievement, James Hetfield and co. delivered a socially-distanced performance of the classic track which first appeared on the band’s second full-length album, 1992’s Dirt . Watch below.   

Metallica | “Would?” [2020 Alice in Chains Cover]

“Hey, Alice In Chains!” Hetfield said in a heartfelt message. “Congratulations on the MoPOP Founders Award. We’re glad to be a part of your journey in life, and [it’s] really cool to have gotten to know you guys, and to tour with you guys, and play music with you guys.”

“You are much appreciated, and thank for you continuing on playing music and offering some inspiration for the new musicians of the world.”

Lars Ulrich added: “Boys, fellas, brothers. I’ll second everything that James just said: you guys are a true inspiration. Thank you for being brothers in arms, friends in arms. What are we coming up on? Thirty years here. Much love to all of you from San Fransisco.”

Alice In Chains | “Would?”

After last month’s announcement that Alice in Chains were set to receive the award, founding guitarist and singer Jerry Cantrell said in a statement: “It feels truly special to receive the MoPOP Founders Award in our hometown of Seattle. It’s also humbling to be joined by so many of our friends, peers, and heroes to rock some AIC tunes. I hope people watching enjoy the show as much as we did putting it together.”

“A big hearty thanks to everyone who participated in making this virtual thing happen during these strange times. Music has the power to unite, heal, and inspire. It is all of ours. Let’s continue to create and celebrate that which feeds the soul. Rawk on!”

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