Metallica
Metallica: Master Of Puppets Live at Woodstock 99 East Stage
When Metallica performed "Master of Puppets" live at Woodstock '99 on July 24, 1999, they were right in the thick of their post-"Load" era. Released in 1996, "Load" marked a significant stylistic shift for the band, blending hard rock with various influences. By the time of this performance, Metallica was playing a mix of tracks from “Load” and its follow-up “Reload” (released in 1997). Notably, their participation at Woodstock came during a time when they were grappling with the challenges of being a cornerstone of heavy metal amid a changing musical landscape, which included rising nu-metal acts. Adding to the drama, the festival was marred by violence and tumult, creating a contrasting backdrop to Metallica's electrifying performance. This moment encapsulated both their legacy and the ongoing evolution of their music, showcasing their ability to captivate international audiences, even in chaotic circumstances.