William Shatner Dives into Heavy Metal with Upcoming Album 'What The F Is Heavy Metal?'

In an unexpected twist that has metalheads buzzing, 95-year-old icon William Shatner has announced his upcoming heavy metal album titled What The F Is Heavy Metal?, slated for release in 2027 under the banner of Cleopatra Records. The project promises to be a heavyweight affair, helmed by a powerhouse production team featuring Adam Hamilton (L.A. GUNS, BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACRE) alongside Brian Perera, the president of Cleopatra, and several other notable producers. With an impressive roster of guest musicians including legends like Brian May (QUEEN), Rob Halford (JUDAS PRIEST), John Moyer (DISTURBED), and Dave Lombardo (SLAYER), this album is set to redefine what fans expect from a metal record.

Shatner recently took the stage with his newly minted band, THE *UCKERS, during Riot Fest in Chicago, where he delivered a six-song set that showcased a mix of original tracks and daring covers. Among the covers were metal anthems such as METALLICA's "Enter Sandman," Ozzy Osbourne's "Crazy Train," and MOTÖRHEAD's "Ace Of Spades." Shatner’s reinterpretation of these classics has sparked conversations about the depth and meaning behind the lyrics, particularly his provocative take on the dark themes present in these songs.

While discussing his approach to these iconic tracks, Shatner shared his thoughts on the unsettling lyrics of "Enter Sandman," suggesting a narrative that strays far from the original intention. “It’s bizarre... Who says that?” he mused, hinting at a more disturbing interpretation that casts a shadow over the innocent facade of childhood lullabies. His candid remarks reveal not just a willingness to challenge perceptions but a desire to push the boundaries of how we engage with heavy metal music.

Before stepping onto the stage, Shatner admitted to feeling a cocktail of nerves and excitement, likening the experience to an actor's nightmare. “I’m poised between being laughed off the stage and being lauded,” he confessed. Yet, it’s this very tension that fuels his passion for this new venture, as he aims to deliver a performance that is both fresh and audacious, echoing the raw and emotional essence of heavy metal.

Shatner's journey into the heavy metal realm began with a moment of curiosity, sparked by Cleopatra Records’ suggestion to explore the genre. “What the F is heavy metal?” was his immediate response, but he soon discovered a wealth of emotion that he believes is intrinsic to the music. His eagerness to learn and experiment has led him to fuse his theatrical background with the vibrant energy of heavy metal, creating a project that is as intriguing as it is groundbreaking.

With a lineup featuring seasoned musicians like Marcus Nand and Phil Soussan, THE *UCKERS are poised to deliver a performance that melds Shatner's unique vision with the raw power of rock. As the metal community braces for what promises to be an unprecedented release, one thing is clear: Shatner is ready to boldly go where no actor has gone before, unleashing a heavy metal experience unlike any other.