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Metallica ‘Screaming Suicide’ meaning explained: Music video illuminates ‘taboo’ topic?

DELHI, INDIA - OCTOBER 28: Kirk Hammett (L), Lars Ulrich (CL), James Hetfield (CR) and Robert Trujillo (R) from Metallica at the F1 Rocks India Metallica concert press conference on October 28, 2011 in Delhi, India. (Photo by Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/Getty Images for F1 Rocks in India with Vladivar)

Metallica has just released a new song, “Screaming Suicide,” from their 11th studio album, “72 Seasons.”

The song “Screaming Suicide” was released on January 20, 2023 as the band’s second single from their most recent album.

“Screaming Suicide,” like many other Metallica songs, has a deep meaning for the band and their fans.

Metallica explained in a statement why they chose the rather contentious title for the song.

According to vocalist James Hetfield, the song “Screaming Suicide” addresses the taboo word that many people avoid because it is so sensitive. He also stated that the song’s goal is to get people talking about how no one is alone in their struggles.

Hetfield said in a statement as quoted by Billboard:

“The intention is to communicate about the darkness we feel inside. It’s ridiculous to think we should deny that we have these thoughts. At one point or another I believe most people have thought about it. To face it is to speak the unspoken. If it’s a human experience, we should be able to talk about it. You are not alone.”

Metallica released its music video for “Screaming Suicide” on YouTube shortly after it was released on multiple streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music. The “Screaming Suicide” music video, directed by Tim Saccenti, packs more meaning because it was shot in black and white.

Metallica sang:

“Whisper in your ears / “You are good enough” / Throwing down a rope / A lifeline of hope / Never give you up.”

The “Screaming Suicide” music video has nearly three million views on YouTube as of this writing, only two days after it was released.

Metallica listed suicide prevention hotlines, contact numbers, websites, and agencies from Australia, Denmark, Germany, New Zealand, Norway, and the United Kingdom as part of their commitment to raise awareness on an unpopular topic.

Metallica’s most recent album, “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct,” was released in 2016, and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 charts. It’s their first release in seven years. On April 14, 2023, “72 Seasons” will be released.

If you or a loved one is in crisis, contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. You can also call the network at 1-800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741, or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.