What year did Kirk Hammett take lessons from Joe Satriani?

In the world of rock and heavy metal, the mentor-student relationship often plays a crucial role in shaping the future of budding guitarists. One such iconic pairing was between Joe Satriani, the legendary guitar virtuoso, and Kirk Hammett, the lead guitarist of Metallica. The question that often arises is when Kirk Hammett takes lessons from Joe Satriani.

According to a recent interview on Kylie Olsson’s YouTube show “Life In Six Strings,” Joe Satriani shed light on his experience teaching Kirk Hammett. Satriani mentioned that Hammett was already playing lead guitar for Exodus when their paths crossed, placing the timeframe between 1979 and 1983. What’s particularly intriguing is that Satriani continued to provide lessons to Hammett until early 1988, just before Satriani embarked on his solo career. This implies that Hammett’s iconic work on Metallica’s “…And Justice for All” had already been composed when his lessons with Satriani concluded.

Satriani expressed admiration for Hammett’s dedication, describing him as a “motivated young student” who knew exactly what he wanted. Hammett’s commitment was evident in the fact that, even while playing with Exodus and later Metallica, he increased his lessons to twice a week. Satriani emphasized Hammett’s hunger for knowledge and his eagerness to absorb everything thrown at him.

The relationship between the two guitarists goes beyond the studio and the lesson room. Satriani fondly recounted a joint performance in Quebec City in front of a massive audience, courtesy of Metallica allowing them to open the show. This shared experience marked a special bond, highlighting the journey both musicians had undertaken from their early days to the heights of rock stardom.

In a 2017 interview with the Vancouver radio station CFOX, Hammett reminisced about his initial encounter with Satriani. The first lesson left a lasting impression, with Satriani’s straightforward message: “Learn your lesson. Don’t waste your time, don’t waste my time.” Hammett rose to the challenge, leading to a profound musical education that went beyond technicalities, shaping his unique style.

Joe Satriani’s influence extends beyond Hammett, as many of his students have achieved fame in their own right. Notable names include Steve Vai, Andy Timmons, Larry LaLonde, and Alex Skolnick, showcasing Satriani’s impact on the evolution of guitarists within the rock and metal genres.

As for Satriani, his solo career skyrocketed after parting ways with teaching. His 1987 album, “Surfing With The Alien,” marked a turning point, solidifying his position as a guitar icon. Over the years, Satriani continued to innovate and collaborate, leaving an indelible mark on the world of instrumental rock.

Kirk Hammett’s lessons with Joe Satriani spanned from the late ’70s to the early ’80s, coinciding with Hammett’s tenure in Exodus and the early years of his Metallica career. This mentor-student relationship not only contributed to Hammett’s musical prowess but also reflects the shared journey of two guitarists who, against all odds, changed the landscape of rock and metal.