Kirk Hammett

American guitarist

Kirk Lee Hammett (born November 18, 1962) is the lead guitarist for the band Metallica. He also sings in the background (backing vocals) during most of their songs. Joe Satriani was Hammett's guitar instructor. Before joining Metallica, he was the founding member of another band called Exodus. He left Exodus when the other musicians in Metallica asked him join them.

Kirk Hammett