Randy Blythe Says James Hetfield Saved His Life

Randy Blythe has revealed how Metallica’s James Hetfield saved his life when it came to the Lamb Of God frontman’s struggle with alcoholism. He made the revelation on Instagram, in response to a post made by Hatebreed frontman Jamey Jasta that credited the Metallica singer – who recently entered treatment for addiction – with helping him stay sober. In the honest and open post, Randy shared that it was thanks to James that he was able to get off – and stay off – alcohol.

“I got sober while we were on tour with Metallica almost 9 years ago. The first day of that run, one of my crew guys came to me and said “Hey, Hetfield’s looking for you”- we had been touring with them in the States & Europe for over a year and I was just RAGING, especially in Europe, but inside I was MISERABLE.

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"He knew I had been trying to quit drinking, it wasn’t working for me anymore, & it all came to an end in Australia. A HUGE FACTOR in my willingness & ability to get sober while on fucking heavy metal tour was the fact that I had James & some of his crew who were also sober to talk to – I didn’t have to do it alone.”

Randy went on to explain that he feels the utmost sympathy and empathy for James, and reminded people that however successful or happy someone may be they’re not immune to the troubles of addiction.

“James & crew babied me through my first month of sobriety out there on the road – it was a heavy trip. I couldn’t have done it without them. When I saw the news about James today, I hurt so bad inside for him, because he was there for me when I was in such bad shape- I know how dark it can get.

"But it was also a very strong reminder for me of what I am, & what waits for me if I fuck up & forget I am alcoholic. If you’re an alcoholic, NO ONE IS IMMUNE, no matter how long you have been sober. James is in the right place right now, though, & as he has gone there of his own volition, it sounds like to me he wants sobriety back- and that is the key to it all, you have to want it.

"So my thoughts & prayers are with him - I love that dude. He literally helped SAVE MY LIFE.”

Kerrang! would like to wish James a speedy recovery.

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