In a blockbuster announcement that has sent shockwaves through the rock and metal communities worldwide, legendary bands Metallica and AC/DC have officially confirmed a historic co-headlining tour set for 2026. Dubbed the “Shockwaves Tour,” this unprecedented collaboration promises to deliver an electrifying lineup of classic anthems, new material, and unforgettable live moments across major cities around the globe.
**A Historic Collaboration**
Few collaborations in music history have generated as much excitement as this. Metallica, the pioneering thrash metal giants, and AC/DC, the legendary Australian rock band known for their raw power and iconic riffs, are joining forces for a tour that fans have been dreaming about for decades. While both bands have maintained their legendary statuses independently, this joint tour marks their first major co-headlining venture together, uniting two of the most influential acts in hard rock and heavy metal.
Drummer Lars Ulrich of Metallica expressed his enthusiasm about the tour: “It’s a dream come true to share the stage with AC/DC. We’ve all grown up idolizing their music, and to finally do this tour together is an honor. Get ready for some serious shockwaves!”
AC/DC’s lead guitarist Angus Young echoed the sentiment, stating, “We’ve always admired Metallica’s intensity and musicianship. This tour is going to be a celebration of everything we love about rock — loud, raw, and unforgettable.”
**Tour Details: Dates, Cities, and Venues**
The “Shockwaves Tour” is scheduled to kick off in London on March 15, 2026, at the iconic Wembley Stadium. From there, the tour will span across Europe, North America, and select Asian markets, culminating in a grand finale in Sydney, Australia, in late July.
**Confirmed Dates & Cities:**
– **Europe:** London, Paris, Berlin, Madrid, Milan
– **North America:** New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, Mexico City
– **Asia:** Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai
– **Australia:** Sydney, Melbourne
Additional dates are expected to be announced in South America and other regions as the tour plans finalize. Tickets will go on sale starting December 1, 2025, with presales available to fan club members and VIP package purchasers.
**Setlist Teasers and Expectations**
While both bands are known for their extensive catalogs of hits, fans are eager to know what songs will make the setlists. Industry insiders suggest a mix of timeless classics, newer material, and special surprises.
**Metallica Setlist Teasers:**
– “Master of Puppets”
– “Enter Sandman”
– “One”
– “Nothing Else Matters”
– “The Unforgiven”
– Plus, snippets of new material from their upcoming album, which is rumored to be released in late 2025.
**AC/DC Setlist Teasers:**
– “Back in Black”
– “Highway to Hell”
– “Thunderstruck”
– “You Shook Me All Night Long”
– “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)”
– Expect some rare tracks and possibly a tribute to late band member Malcolm Young.
**Special Collaborations and Unexpected Moments**
Sources close to both bands hint at the possibility of surprise collaborations during the concerts, perhaps with members of each band joining the other on stage for a few legendary covers or joint performances. Fans can anticipate powerful duets of classic songs and maybe even some unreleased material played live for the first time.
**Production and Stage Design**
The tour promises to be a visual spectacle as well. Reports indicate state-of-the-art staging with pyrotechnics, dynamic light shows, and massive video screens that will amplify the raw energy of both bands. The stage design aims to create an immersive experience, making each concert feel like a once-in-a-lifetime event.
**Fan Reactions and Hype**
The announcement has ignited excitement across social media platforms. Hashtags like #ShockwavesTour and #MetallicaACDC are trending globally, with fans sharing their hopes, favorite memories, and setlist predictions. Veteran concert-goers are already booking flights and accommodations, eager not to miss this historic event.
**Impact on the Music Scene**
This tour is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a cultural moment that bridges generations of rock fans. The pairing of Metallica and AC/DC highlights the enduring power of rock music to unite diverse audiences and inspire new generations.
Music journalist Rachel Adams commented, “This tour is a monumental event in rock history. It’s rare to see two such legendary bands come together, especially on a world tour. It’s going to be a celebration of everything that makes rock and metal great.”
**What to Expect Beyond the Music**
In addition to electrifying performances, there are rumors of exclusive merchandise collaborations, behind-the-scenes documentaries, and interactive fan experiences that will be available through official channels. The tour’s official website promises a series of pre-show events, meet-and-greets, and special contests.
**The Road Ahead**
As the countdown begins, fans worldwide are buzzing with anticipation. The “Shockwaves Tour” is set to be one of the most significant musical events of 2026, promising legendary performances, unforgettable memories, and a celebration of rock’s timeless spirit.
With tickets set to go on sale in just a few months, the excitement continues to build. This tour is not just a concert series; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave a lasting legacy in the annals of rock history.
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