William Shatner continues his adventurous journey into music as he prepares to launch a heavy metal band at the age of 95. Known for his illustrious career as an actor, Shatner has also carved a niche in the music industry, releasing 11 studio albums that span a variety of genres such as spoken word, rock, progressive rock, Christmas, and country.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Shatner revealed his initial reaction when approached by his music label, Cleopatra Records, to create a heavy metal album. ‘What the F is heavy metal?’ he humorously recalled, marking this phrase as the album’s title.
Collaborating with his long-time friend and author, Robert Sharenow, Shatner shared that they composed six original songs for the album, with him providing his vocal track. The album, titled ‘What the F is Heavy Metal,’ includes contributions from over 50 musicians, featuring notable names like Queen’s Brian May, who contributed a guitar solo in one of the tracks, ‘Rage.’ This song draws inspiration from Dylan Thomas’s poem, ‘Do not go gentle into that good night.’
Shatner’s foray into heavy metal was highlighted by a live performance at Riot Fest, a prominent punk rock festival in Chicago, where his band, The *uckers, debuted. Despite the challenges posed by his hearing condition, including tinnitus, Shatner has embraced the intensity of heavy metal music, which he describes as the ‘beat of life,’ energizing and invigorating those who listen.
Shatner has reinterpreted classic songs for the album, including Metallica’s ‘Enter Sandman,’ focusing on the darker themes beneath the melody. He explains that the creative process involves finding fresh perspectives in the lyrics.
His partnership with Audien Hearing sheds light on his personal experiences with hearing issues. Decades ago, Shatner’s hearing was damaged on the set of ‘Star Trek’ during a botched explosion scene. Learning to live with tinnitus through habituation, Shatner found that hearing aids enable him to enjoy the full range of life’s sounds.
The album’s first single is slated for release this winter, with Shatner planning to review the final tracks to ensure his performance aligns with the musicians’ tempo and interpretation. This project stands as a testament to Shatner’s zeal for music, showcasing his adaptability and enthusiasm.
For this and more entertainment news, visit Fox News Digital.
Dance Theatre of Harlem Returns with Garland’s ‘Return’ and Timeless ‘Firebird’ 
Rosalía: A Musical Journey Beyond Boundaries 
Rikki Rockett’s Fight Against Cancer and Path to Recovery 
Character Actor John Turturro: A Career of Memorable Performances 
Sylvester Stallone Defends Casting Daughter in ‘Tulsa King’ 
Kevin Pollak Reveals Rip Torn’s Eccentric On-Set Behavior