Metallica's Surprising Setlist Choices During Their Sphere Residency

Hey there, music lovers! If you’ve been following the legendary Metallica, you know they’ve been rocking the Sphere in Las Vegas with their epic residency titled "Life Burns Faster." As they wrapped up the 2026 portion of their shows on November 7, fans were treated to an exciting mix of their classic hits along with some deep cuts that hadn’t graced the stage in years.

One of the coolest aspects of their Sphere shows is the band’s commitment to keeping things fresh and unexpected. With a promise of no repeats during the two shows each weekend, Metallica has delved into their extensive catalog, pulling out rare tracks that fans might have thought they’d never hear live again. Let’s take a closer look at some of the least played songs during this residency that surprised and delighted audiences.

During their 2026 shows, Metallica played a total of 34 different songs across 12 performances. Among those, a few tracks made appearances only once, leaving fans buzzing with excitement. For instance, “Devil's Dance” from their 1997 album, Reload, made a long-awaited return after last being played in 2008! Talk about a throwback! Another gem that fans were thrilled to hear was “...And Justice For All,” which hadn’t been performed live since 2014. These rare performances have certainly added a unique twist to their usual setlist.

But it’s not just the obscure tracks that kept fans on their toes. Each weekend, Metallica showcased their most popular hits, and some songs were played a whopping six times throughout the residency. This mix of old favorites and seldom-played songs has turned every show into a one-of-a-kind experience, leaving fans eagerly speculating about what the band might pull out next.

As we gear up for the 2027 portion of the residency starting January 27, it’s clear that Metallica is all about keeping the excitement alive. With so many songs in their arsenal, there’s no telling what surprises await their loyal fans. Whether you’re a die-hard Metallica fan or just an occasional listener, their Sphere shows are a testament to their enduring legacy and creativity. Stay tuned for more music magic!