James Hetfield has recently completed work on a contribution for the forthcoming Waylon Jennings tribute album, to be released in February of 2003 by RCA Records. The track he chose, titled "Don't You Think This Outlaw Bit's Done Got Out of Hand," comes from Jennings September 1978 release, I've Always Been Crazy. The process was unique for James as he not only sang, but played all the instruments on the track. The song was produced by Bob Rock at the Metallica HQ in San Francisco.

- "The first time I met Waylon was when a college radio station wanted to get the two outlaws together of certain different styles of music," explained James. "They thought it was a good idea if I interview him and I guess Dad helped me out with a few of the questions. It's funny 'cause my Dad wanted me to get a CD signed for him and then Waylon brought some Metallica stuff to get signed for his son. So it was completely cool," explained James about meeting Waylon for the first time.

Jennings, who died on February 13th 2002, was a recognized star of the '70s outlaw country music movement, and Hetfield has helped to further strengthen the things both held in common with his unique (and rather heavy!) tribute.

"I am extremely grateful to be a part of this project," added James, "to be able to put my stamp, my outlaw stamp on the music that he has created."

Other artists on the album include:
Travis Tritt, Brooks & Dunn, Hank Williams Jr., Ben Harper, Dwight Yoakam, John Mellencamp, George Jones & Emmylou Harris, Kenny Chesney & Kid Rock, Waylon's son's band, Stargunn, and his wife, Jessi Colter.