Lars Ulrich Gives Advice To Young Musicians Like Metallica

JAKARTA - Lars Ulrich shared straightforward advice with young musicians determined to follow in the footsteps of his band, Metallica. The essence of the message is simple, but deep.

The 61-year-old drummer's advice was delivered in a question and answer session after the premiere of the documentary "Metallica Saved My Life" at the Mill Valley Film Festival at the California Film Institute recently.

"Stay focused. Focus," Ulrich said, quoted by Blabbermouth, Thursday, October 16.

"Of course the concept of '10,000 hours' is something that always appears in my head. You have to invest time," Ulrich added.

Ulrich explained that time investment is not limited to just one form. It can be in the form of learning from books, receiving formal teaching, or even just consistent instrumental practices.

This applies to all musicians, whether it's playing guitar, drums, or other musical instruments, For him, "There is no right or wrong path."

Furthermore, he encouraged young artists to be honest with themselves about their motivation.

"Maybe be honest with yourself about your motives," continued the drummer. "Once again, there is no right or wrong motive. Do you want to play music because of the burning passion in you? Do you want to play music to become famous? Do you want to play music to be rich? Nothing is wrong or true of all that."

Then Ulrich closed his advice with a sharp warning to young musicians.

"But don't lie to yourself what your motives are, if you understand my intentions, because it will also take you wherever you want to go with less road intersections or less obstacles."