35 Years Ago, Metallica & Guns N Roses Formed The Greatest Hard Rock Supergroup For Just 1 Notorious Gig

In 1990, two of the biggest names in hard rock and heavy metal—Metallica and Guns N’ Roses—joined forces for one night of chaos, mayhem, and musical history. It wasn’t a planned tour, it wasn’t even a full set. It was a one-off jam session that would go down in rock legend.

The setting was a small club in Los Angeles, the infamous Whisky a Go Go, already hallowed ground in rock circles. The occasion? A surprise after-party gig following an industry event. But when word got out that members of Metallica and Guns N’ Roses were in the building—and about to hit the stage together—fans packed the place to the rafters.

On that unforgettable night, James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, and Kirk Hammett teamed up with Axl Rose, Slash, and Duff McKagan for what would become a chaotic but electric performance. With no setlist and zero rehearsals, the newly formed supergroup tore through covers of AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones, mixing in a few of their own classics in a wild, booze-fueled set that felt more like a bar fight with instruments than a concert.

Tensions and egos were high—this was the peak of both bands’ fame and notoriety—but for one night, it all clicked. The chemistry was raw, loud, and unpredictable, with Axl’s wild vocals colliding with Hetfield’s guttural growl, and Slash and Hammett trading searing guitar solos that lit up the tiny stage.

Though rumors of a supergroup tour swirled for years after, it never happened. Personal clashes, creative differences, and the wild lifestyles of both bands made anything more than that one night impossible. But fans still talk about it like it was a rock ‘n’ roll holy grail.

Thirty-five years later, that notorious jam session