When we think of iconic heavy metal music, a few names immediately come to mind: Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Slayer, Anthrax, Slipknot, Iron Maiden, Megadeth, and the list goes on. Yet, amidst this lineup of powerful, ear-splitting assemblies of powerhouse bands, all fueled by distorted electric guitars, robust rhythm sections, and high-pitched solos, one name stands the juggernaut of them all: Metallica.
Formed in 1981, Metallica has left an indelible mark on the music world, having sold a staggering 125 million records to date. What sets them apart is not only their musical prowess but also their unmatched dedication to their craft, as evidenced by their unique distinction as the only band to perform on all seven continents within a single calendar year—yes, including the frigid expanse of Antarctica!
Despite metal’s reputation as an underground and niche genre, since 1990, every Metallica album has debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, challenging preconceived notions and proving that their electrifying blend of music transcends boundaries.
Meet Teofila Oyao, the Cebuana Mother of Metallica’s Lead Guitarist, Kirk Hammet
While much has changed in the music industry landscape through the years, the enduring influence of Metallica remains unmatched, making them a true giant in the realm of heavy metal. And amidst the well-deserved recognition of their musical prowess, a lesser-known facet of the band’s history emerges, revealing that Metallica’s lead guitarist, Kirk Hammett, has roots in Cebuano heritage.
Wait, what?! Yes, the celebrated musician, who’s ranked by Rolling Stone as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, has a fascinating heritage, with his mother from Cebu and his father of Irish descent. In an interview with Time Out, Kirk shared: “I’m a mestizo, which means I’m part Filipino. I mean, my grandmother was like full-on Filipino; bless her soul. She lived till a hundred and four.”
Chefela Hammett (birthname: Teofila Oyao) is a second-generation Filipina American whose family has its origins in Cebu. She married Dennis Hammett, an Irish merchant mariner, and together they raised their family in the diverse and bustling city of San Francisco, California.
As a devoted and unwavering source of support, Chefela has been by Kirk’s side from the very beginnings of his musical journey, right through his early guitar lessons, and continued to stand by him as he and the band soared to the heights of the Grammy Awards, nurturing his passion and dedication with her unwavering presence and encouragement.
Truly, the talent of Cebuanos has a way of permeating unexpected corners of the world. The stories behind our musical heroes are as diverse and captivating as the music they create, and Kirk Hammett’s connection to Cebu is a testament to the remarkable, ever-unfolding narrative of rock ‘n’ roll’s global impact.
