Metallica play cover of Tom Jones' 'Delilah' at Principality in Cardiff, despite song being banned in venue

Look, I've been to a few Metallica shows in my time, but I've never seen them cover Tom Jones' 'Delilah' before - and that's not just because I'm a British music journalist, born and bred in London. No, the real reason is that 'Delilah' is actually banned from being performed at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, where Metallica played their Welsh capital show last night (June 28). That's right, this iconic stadium, home of Welsh rugby, has a strict no- 'Delilah' policy - and it's all because of the song's problematic lyrics, which reference domestic violence.

This isn't the first time 'Delilah' has been at the centre of a controversy. Back in 2023, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) banned the song from being performed by choirs at Wales internationals, citing its references to domestic violence. The WRU was clear in its statement, condemning domestic violence of any kind and acknowledging that the song's subject matter is upsetting to some supporters.

But Metallica weren't about to let a little thing like a ban get in the way of their setlist. During their mid-set 'Kirk and Rob Doodle' section, the band paid tribute to Tom Jones - one of Wales' most famous sons - with a rousing rendition of 'Delilah'. It was a notable step, to say the least, and one that's sure to spark debate among fans.

Tom Jones himself has spoken out against the ban on 'Delilah', telling a crowd at Cardiff Castle in July 2023 that "you can't stop us singing 'Delilah'." And it seems Metallica are following in his footsteps, choosing to play the song despite the controversy surrounding it. This isn't the first time Metallica have played a cover that's been banned or problematic - they've done it before with songs like Rammstein's 'Sonne' and The Pogues' 'Dirty Old Town'.

But what does it say about Metallica that they're willing to take the risk and play a song that's been banned from the very stadium they're performing in? Is it a bold statement, a challenge to the status quo, or simply a nod to their own musical heroes? For me, it's a sign that Metallica are still a band that's willing to push boundaries and take risks - even if it means going against the grain.

The 'Kirk and Rob Doodle' has become a staple of Metallica's live shows in recent years, giving Hammett and Trujillo a mid-set slot to play loose bass-and-guitar jams. It's a chance for the band to let loose, pay tribute to local musical heroes, and just have fun. And in this case, it was a chance for Metallica to play 'Delilah' - a song that's become a Welsh anthem, if not a little bit of a controversy magnet.

Metallica have a history of playing covers that are a little bit unexpected, a little bit surprising. They've done it with songs like ABBA's 'Dancing Queen' and a-ha's 'Take On Me', and it's clear that they're not afraid to take risks and try new things. Whether it's a nod to local heroes or a chance to show off their musical chops, the 'Kirk and Rob Doodle' is a highlight of any Metallica show - and 'Delilah' is just the latest addition to their setlist.

Playing a song like 'Delilah' is a risk, plain and simple. It's a risk of alienating fans, of sparking controversy, of being seen as insensitive or tone-deaf. But it's also a chance to start a conversation, to challenge the status quo, and to push boundaries. And that's exactly what Metallica are doing with their cover of 'Delilah'.

For fans of Metallica, the 'Kirk and Rob Doodle' is a highlight of any show - a chance to see the band let loose and have fun. But for the band themselves, it's a chance to pay tribute to their musical heroes, to try new things, and to push the boundaries of what's possible. And that's what makes Metallica one of the greatest live bands around - their willingness to take risks, to try new things, and to never say no to a good challenge.

Metallica's UK run may be winding down, but it's been a wild ride. From their show-stopping performance at London Stadium to their impromptu rendition of 'Delilah' at Principality Stadium, it's been a tour that's been full of surprises. And with two more shows left to go in London, it's clear that Metallica are going out with a bang.

The band's final two shows will feature support from some big names, including Gojira and Knocked Loose on the first night, and Pantera and Avatar on the second. It's going to be a wild ride, and one that's sure to leave fans talking long after the curtain call. So if you're in London, grab your tickets and get ready for the ultimate Metallica experience.

Look, I've seen Metallica live a few times, and I can tell you that it's an experience like no other. The band's energy is infectious, their music is incredible, and their live shows are always a wild ride. And with their cover of 'Delilah' at Principality Stadium, it's clear that Metallica are still a band that's willing to take risks and push boundaries. Here's to the next chapter in Metallica's illustrious career - it's going to be a wild ride.