Metallica - "Hit The Lights"

Originally Released as part of the first Metal Massacre compilation (6/14/82)

In this episode, Metal Blade Records CEO takes us all the way back to the beginning, with one of the songs featured on the original Metal Massacre compilation, Metallica's "Hit The Lights", which is the first song the band ever recorded. Joining him for his walk down memory lane is Associate Producer on the album, John Kornarens. Brian and John talk about how they befriended a young Lars Ulrich, whose determination to start a band led to Metallica being included on the record. John talks about his role in making sure the song was able to be included on the record, and he and Brian discuss their trip to London to promote the record, including spending a day with Uli John Roth.

Legendary producer Bill Metoyer discusses the production on the song, while contrasting and comparing the different versions. He also explains why he never got to see Metallica when they were starting out in LA.

John Kornarens can be found on Instagram @JHKLA59

For decades, John Kornarens has been a sought-after director and stage manager on shows such as Entertainment Tonight, The Talk, Dr. Phil, The Insider, Murphy Brown, and Rachael Ray. He also directed music videos for legendary Danish metal band Mercyful Fate.

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Episode ID: 1000745697363

GUID: eeb0f91e-f4f2-11f0-a8a2-9704cc2e80a7

Release Date: 19/01/2026, 10:38:00