Watch: Metallica covers Elton John as he receives 2024 Gershwin Prize

Metallica paid tribute to Elton John and his songwriting partner Bernie Taupin with a special performance at a tribute concert held at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday (March 20).

Elton and Bernie were honored with the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for their remarkable contributions to music during the exclusive event, which featured appearances by both John and Taupin and was hosted by Billy Porter.

Metallica kicked off the show with their rendition of “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” from John’s iconic 1973 double album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”

Speaking to reporters, members of Metallica expressed their admiration for John and Taupin’s collaborative work. “They’re an inspiration to us,” shared frontman James Hetfield, while guitarist Kirk Hammett added, “They’re responsible for some of the greatest songs of my childhood.”

One of those things you thought you’d never see in Washington — Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson head-bopping along to @Metallica at the @librarycongress #GershwinPrize for Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

See it April 8 on @PBS. pic.twitter.com/lCJB27SjFx

— Ed O'Keefe (@edokeefe) March 21, 2024