Metallica frontman James Hetfield has Lemmy’s ashes tattooed on his finger

Metallica frontman James Hetfield has shared details of his latest tattoo – which includes the ashes of late Motorhead rocker Lemmy.

Hetfield posted a photo metal band‘s Instagram account, showing off a new Ace of Spades emblazoned on his right middle finger in honor of Motorhead’s hit song.

The singer and guitarist told the band’s 11 million followers that the tattoo was “a tribute to my friend and inspiration Mr. Lemmy Kilmister,” adding: “Without him, there would be no Metallica.”

He continued: “The black ink is mixed with a small amount of his cremation ashes, which he generously gave to me. So now, he can still fly in the world.”

Lemmy, whose real name is Ian Kilmister, is the founder and lead singer of the rock band Motorhead. The band formed in the 1970s and went on to release more than 20 albums, including hits such as “Overkill,” “Iron Fist” and “Ace of Spades.”

He died in December 2015, days after being diagnosed with cancer.

Hetfield formed Metallica with drummer Lars Ulrich in the early 1980s, and the band released their 11th album, 72 Seasons, last year.

Their best known works include The Sandman, Puppet Master, Nothing Else Matters and Until It Sleeps.

“Worst tribute ever”

Hetfield has previously spoken about Motorhead’s influence on Metallica, and in 2022 called for Motorhead to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

“It’s just a nod, a little reminder. What does it really mean to get in there? I don’t know. But for some of these bands, it could mean the world,” he said in a radio interview.

“With Lemmy’s passing, it’s really, really important to me to see Motorhead recognized – because there’s no rocker on the planet than Lemmy.”

Many fans commented on the photo of his tattoo, with one calling the tattoo the “worst tribute ever”.

Another said: “RIP Lemmy. What a great gift!”