James Hetfield

James Hetfield is the main songwriter, lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist and founding member of the band Metallica. He is known for his stage presence, muscular riffing style and often-imitated signature growl

James Hetfield is the main songwriter, lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist and founding member of the band Metallica. He is known for his stage presence, muscular riffing style and often-imitated signature growl.

Hetfield was born on the 3rd of August, 1963, in Downey, Los Angeles County, California. His childhood was difficult in many ways. His father, Virgil Hetfield (a truck driver) and mother, Cynthia (a light opera singer) were devout and strict adherents to Christian Science, and accordingly, much of his young life revolved around religion. In accordance with their beliefs, Hetfield's parents strongly disapproved of medicine or any medical help and remained vigilant in their faith even as his mother began to die of cancer. Her death, and his subsequently turbulent relationship with religion, are both recurring subjects which have been the focal point of some of Metallica's lyrics.