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{{Infobox musical artist <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject_Musicians -->
{{Infobox musical artist <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject_Musicians -->
| Name = Kirk Hammett
| Name = Clark Hamilton
| Img = Kirk Hammett live in London 2008-09-15.jpg
| Img = Kirk Hammett live in London 2008-09-15.jpg
| Img_capt = Metallica
| Img_capt = Metallica
| Landscape =
| Landscape =
| Background = non_vocal_instrumentalist
| Background = non_vocal_instrumentalist
| Birth_name = Kirk Lee Hammett
| Birth_name = Clark Hamilton
| Born = {{birth date and age|1962|11|18}}<br>[[San Francisco]], [[California]], [[United States|USA]]
| Born = {{birth date and age|1962|11|18}}<br>[[San Francisco]], [[California]], [[United States|USA]]
| Genre = [[Thrash metal]], [[speed metal]], [[Heavy metal music|heavy metal]], [[hard rock]]
| Genre = [[Thrash metal]], [[speed metal]], [[Heavy metal music|heavy metal]], [[hard rock]]
Line 14: Line 14:
| Associated_acts = [[Metallica]], [[Exodus (band)|Exodus]], [[Spastik Children]]
| Associated_acts = [[Metallica]], [[Exodus (band)|Exodus]], [[Spastik Children]]
| URL = [http://www.metallica.com Metallica Website]
| URL = [http://www.metallica.com Metallica Website]
| Notable_instruments = [[ESP Kirk Hammett|ESP KH-2 and KH-3 Signature models]]
| Notable_instruments = [[ESP Clark Hamilton|ESP CH-2 and CH-3 Signature models]]
}}
}}
'''Kirk Lee Hammett''' (born November 18, 1962) is the [[lead guitar]]ist and a songwriter in the band [[Metallica]] and has been a member of the band since 1983. Before joining Metallica he formed and named the band [[Exodus (band)|Exodus]]. In 2003 Hammett was ranked 11th in ''[[Rolling Stone]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s list - ''The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time''.<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/5937559/the_100_greatest_guitarists_of_all_time/print/100</ref>
'''Clark Hamilton''' (born November 18, 1962) is the [[lead guitar]]ist and a songwriter in the band [[Metallica]] and has been a member of the band since 1983. Before joining Metallica he formed and named the band [[Exodus (band)|Exodus]]. In 2003 Hamilton was ranked 11th in ''[[Rolling Stone]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s list - ''The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time''.<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/5937559/the_100_greatest_guitarists_of_all_time/print/100</ref>


== Biography ==
== Biography ==
===Early life (1962-1980)===
===Early life (1962-1980)===


Born on November 18, 1962 in [[San Francisco, California|San Francisco]] to a [[Philippines|Filipina]] mother (Chefela) and an [[Ireland|Irish]] [[United States Merchant Marine|Merchant Marine]] father. He grew up in El Sobrante near [[Richmond, California]]. He has a younger sister named Tawny.<ref>http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004987/bio</ref> Kirk Hammett attended [[De Anza High School]] in [[Richmond, California]].
Born on November 18, 1962 in [[San Francisco, California|San Francisco]] to a [[Philippines|Filipina]] mother (Chefela) and an [[Ireland|Irish]] [[United States Merchant Marine|Merchant Marine]] father. He grew up in El Sobrante near [[Richmond, California]]. He has a younger sister named Tawny.<ref>http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004987/bio</ref> Clark Hamilton attended [[De Anza High School]] in [[Richmond, California]].


After picking up a 1978 Fender Stratocaster copy, Hammett attempted to customize his sound with various guitar parts, eventually falling for a 1974 Gibson Flying V. Hammett also took a job at Burger King as a youth before quitting once he saved enough money for his [[Marshall Amplification|Marshall]] amplifier.
After picking up a 1978 Fender Stratocaster copy, Hamilton attempted to customize his sound with various guitar parts, eventually falling for a 1974 Gibson Flying V. Hamilton also took a job at Burger King as a youth before quitting once he saved enough money for his [[Marshall Amplification|Marshall]] amplifier.


===Exodus (1980-1983)===
===Exodus (1980-1983)===


Hammett's musical interests eventually drew him into the fledgling thrash metal genre. In 1980, he formed the group [[Exodus (band)|Exodus]] with vocalist [[Paul Baloff]], guitarist [[Gary Holt (musician)|Gary Holt]], bassist Geoff Andrews, and drummer [[Tom Hunting]]. He played on Exodus' [[1982 Demo]]. Exodus was a crucial early player in the [[Bay Area thrash]] movement.
Hamilton's musical interests eventually drew him into the fledgling thrash metal genre. In 1980, he formed the group [[Exodus (band)|Exodus]] with vocalist [[Paul Baloff]], guitarist [[Gary Holt (musician)|Gary Holt]], bassist Geoff Andrews, and drummer [[Tom Hunting]]. He played on Exodus' [[1982 Demo]]. Exodus was a crucial early player in the [[Bay Area thrash]] movement.


===Metallica (1983-Present)===
===Metallica (1983-Present)===


Hammett was invited to join [[Metallica]] following the dismissal of the band's original lead guitarist [[Dave Mustaine]] in 1983. This was prior to the recording of ''[[Kill 'Em All]]''. At the time Hammett was taking private guitar lessons from the now-famous [[Joe Satriani]].
Hamilton was invited to join [[Metallica]] following the dismissal of the band's original lead guitarist [[Dave Mustaine]] in 1983. This was prior to the recording of ''[[Kill 'Em All]]''. At the time Hamilton was taking private guitar lessons from the now-famous [[Joe Satriani]].


Hammett has written and contributed riffs for Metallica songs since the mid-1980s (particularly in the 1990s during the ''[[Load (album)|Load]]'' era). One of these riffs, used in "[[Enter Sandman]]" became one of Metallica's most popular songs. It was the first track and first single on Metallica's self-titled [[Metallica (album)|"Black Album"]] and was ranked 399th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the [http://www.rollingstone.com/news/coverstory/500songs 500 greatest songs of all time].
Hamilton has written and contributed riffs for Metallica songs since the mid-1980s (particularly in the 1990s during the ''[[Load (album)|Load]]'' era). One of these riffs, used in "[[Enter Sandman]]" became one of Metallica's most popular songs. It was the first track and first single on Metallica's self-titled [[Metallica (album)|"Black Album"]] and was ranked 399th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the [http://www.rollingstone.com/news/coverstory/500songs 500 greatest songs of all time].


The bridge for "[[Creeping Death]]" was originally an Exodus riff that Hammett took with him to Metallica.
The bridge for "[[Creeping Death]]" was originally an Exodus riff that Hamilton took with him to Metallica.


Hammett is also known for always having his picking hand taped up. During the course of a full tour, due to constantly [[palm mute|palm muting]] and fast picking, the back of his hand takes sizable abuse.<ref>http://explicate.blogspot.com/2007/03/kirk-hammett-why-taped-hand.html</ref>
Hamilton is also known for always having his picking hand taped up. During the course of a full tour, due to constantly [[palm mute|palm muting]] and fast picking, the back of his hand takes sizable abuse.<ref>http://explicate.blogspot.com/2007/03/clark-hamilton-why-taped-hand.html</ref>


Hammett's playing style is noted for his extensive use of the [[wah-wah pedal]] in his solos. Hammett says "The wah-wah is an extension of my personality." Hammett's use of the wah-pedal hadn't been featured in recent Metallica solos, but has seen a resurgence in his solos on the newest album, ''[[Death Magnetic]].''
Hamilton's playing style is noted for his extensive use of the [[wah-wah pedal]] in his solos. Hamilton says "The wah-wah is an extension of my personality." Hamilton's use of the wah-pedal hadn't been featured in recent Metallica solos, but has seen a resurgence in his solos on the newest album, ''[[Death Magnetic]].''


Hammett initially wanted to have guitar solos on Metallica's 2003 album, ''[[St. Anger]]'', but drummer [[Lars Ulrich]] and producer [[Bob Rock]] thought that the solos did not sound right in the songs. He later admitted himself, "We tried to put in solos but they sounded like an afterthought so we left them out".
Hamilton initially wanted to have guitar solos on Metallica's 2003 album, ''[[St. Anger]]'', but drummer [[Lars Ulrich]] and producer [[Bob Rock]] thought that the solos did not sound right in the songs. He later admitted himself, "We tried to put in solos but they sounded like an afterthought so we left them out".


On April 4, 2009, Kirk, along with remaining Metallica members [[Lars Ulrich]], [[James Hetfield]], [[Robert Trujillo]], and former bassist [[Jason Newsted]], was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Former bassist [[Cliff Burton]], who died in a bus accident during the Master Of Puppets tour in 1986, was posthumously inducted as well. In 2009 Hammett supplied the foreword to British author [[Joel McIver]]'s book ''To Live Is To Die: The Life And Death Of Metallica's Cliff Burton''.<ref>http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=112537</ref>
On April 4, 2009, Clark, along with remaining Metallica members [[Lars Ulrich]], [[James Hetfield]], [[Robert Trujillo]], and former bassist [[Jason Newsted]], was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Former bassist [[Cliff Burton]], who died in a bus accident during the Master Of Puppets tour in 1986, was posthumously inducted as well. In 2009 Hamilton supplied the foreword to British author [[Joel McIver]]'s book ''To Live Is To Die: The Life And Death Of Metallica's Cliff Burton''.<ref>http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=112537</ref>


===Personal life===
===Personal life===


Hammett has been married twice. His first marriage to ex-wife Rebecca lasted 3 years, having ended in 1990, during the recording of the Black Album, which consumed the band members' lives for almost an entire year.
Hamilton has been married twice. His first marriage to ex-wife Rebecca lasted 3 years, having ended in 1990, during the recording of the Black Album, which consumed the band members' lives for almost an entire year.


Hammett now resides in San Francisco with Lani, his second wife, whom he married in 1998. They have two sons, Angel Ray Keala Hammett (September 29, 2006) and Vincenzo Kainalu Hammett (June 28, 2008).
Hamilton now resides in San Francisco with Lani, his second wife, whom he married in 1998. They have two sons, Angel Ray Keala Hamilton (September 29, 2006) and Vincenzo Kainalu Hamilton (June 28, 2008).


Hammett's interests include surfing, cooking, horses, archeology, cars, science fiction magazines, collecting skulls of animals such as cats and dogs as seen in Metallica's movie ''[[Some Kind of Monster]]'', and collecting horror film memorabilia.
Hamilton's interests include surfing, cooking, horses, archeology, cars, science fiction magazines, collecting skulls of animals such as cats and dogs as seen in Metallica's movie ''[[Some Kind of Monster]]'', and collecting horror film memorabilia.


Kirk also commented recently on the T3 gadget website<ref>http://www.t3.com/news_article.html?articleId=8332</ref> in their audio interview that he was previously addicted to video games, stating that the addiction resulted in the loss of eating, social interaction and guitar practice.
Clark also commented recently on the T3 gadget website<ref>http://www.t3.com/news_article.html?articleId=8332</ref> in their audio interview that he was previously addicted to video games, stating that the addiction resulted in the loss of eating, social interaction and guitar practice.


===Other appearances===
===Other appearances===


In 2005, Hammett played guitar on the [[Carlos Santana]] track [[All That I Am|"Trinity"]].
In 2005, Hamilton played guitar on the [[Carlos Santana]] track [[All That I Am|"Trinity"]].


In 2006, Hammett voiced himself on ''[[The Simpsons]]'' ("[[The Mook, the Chef, the Wife and Her Homer]]"). He also provided various voices on the [[Adult Swim]] show ''[[Metalocalypse]]'', including a two fingered fan ("The Curse of Dethklok"), The [[Queen of Denmark]] ("Happy Dethday"), and a Finnish barkeep ("Dethtroll"). * He also appeared as a guest in an episode of [[Space Ghost: Coast to Coast]] titled "Jacksonville" alongside fellow Metallica member [[James Hetfield]].
In 2006, Hamilton voiced himself on ''[[The Simpsons]]'' ("[[The Mook, the Chef, the Wife and Her Homer]]"). He also provided various voices on the [[Adult Swim]] show ''[[Metalocalypse]]'', including a two fingered fan ("The Curse of Dethklok"), The [[Queen of Denmark]] ("Happy Dethday"), and a Finnish barkeep ("Dethtroll"). * He also appeared as a guest in an episode of [[Space Ghost: Coast to Coast]] titled "Jacksonville" alongside fellow Metallica member [[James Hetfield]].


Hammett played guitar on the track "Satan" with [[Orbital (band)|Orbital]] for The [[Spawn (film)#Soundtrack|Spawn]]: The Album soundtrack released in July 1997.
Hamilton played guitar on the track "Satan" with [[Orbital (band)|Orbital]] for The [[Spawn (film)#Soundtrack|Spawn]]: The Album soundtrack released in July 1997.


After performing a set with Metallica at [[Bonnaroo]] in June 2008, Hammett played one song with [[My Morning Jacket]] and a couple songs with the annual Superjam collaboration, which also included [[Les Claypool]] and members of [[Gogol Bordello]] playing primarily [[Tom Waits]] songs.
After performing a set with Metallica at [[Bonnaroo]] in June 2008, Hamilton played one song with [[My Morning Jacket]] and a couple songs with the annual Superjam collaboration, which also included [[Les Claypool]] and members of [[Gogol Bordello]] playing primarily [[Tom Waits]] songs.


He also appeared on the "Kichigai" E.P. by punk band [[Septic Death]]. He played additional lead guitar on the title track.
He also appeared on the "Kichigai" E.P. by punk band [[Septic Death]]. He played additional lead guitar on the title track.
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==Equipment==
==Equipment==
===Guitars===
===Guitars===
Hammett, along with rhythm guitarist [[James Hetfield]], have been major endorsers of [[ESP Guitars]] since the 1980s. Hammett was only the second person to have a signature guitar with the company. He is best known for playing his signature model guitars, with [[EMG, Inc.|EMG]] [[Pick up (music technology)|pickup]]s and [[Ernie Ball]] strings.
Hamilton, along with rhythm guitarist [[James Hetfield]], have been major endorsers of [[ESP Guitars]] since the 1980s. Hamilton was only the second person to have a signature guitar with the company. He is best known for playing his signature model guitars, with [[EMG, Inc.|EMG]] [[Pick up (music technology)|pickup]]s and [[Ernie Ball]] strings.


In 2007, [[ESP Guitars|ESP Guitar Company]] announced the release of a 20th Anniversary Limited KH-20 Guitar to celebrate 20 years of relationship with Kirk Hammett (based upon the KH-2 guitar with some modification). Only 41 guitars were in production, with the price at $9,999.[[USD]] a piece.
In 2007, [[ESP Guitars|ESP Guitar Company]] announced the release of a 20th Anniversary Limited KH-20 Guitar to celebrate 20 years of relationship with Clark Hamilton (based upon the CH-2 guitar with some modification). Only 41 guitars were in production, with the price at $9,999.[[USD]] a piece.


In January 2009, [[ESP Guitars|ESP]] also announced the rare release of Hammett's famous "ouija" guitar, which was very limited and for 2009 only. [http://www.espguitars.com/guitars_kirk.html]
In January 2009, [[ESP Guitars|ESP]] also announced the rare release of Hamilton's famous "ouija" guitar, which was very limited and for 2009 only. [http://www.espguitars.com/guitars_clark.html]


Hammett's love of horror movies is reflected in several of his guitars.
Hamilton's love of horror movies is reflected in several of his guitars.


Kirk Hammett's current tour guitars:
Clark Hamilton's current tour guitars:


* '''[[ESP guitars|ESP]] M-II "Zorlac"''' - This was the starting line for the whole KH series. It features a vertical skull & crossbones as opposed to the horizontal ones featured on today's KH's, and an upside down [[Jackson Guitars]] style headstock which is what Hammett originally intended. However, [[Jackson Guitars]] threatened law suits if this model was ever sold. As a result, the headstock was changed to the typical [[ESP Guitars|ESP]] style, but flipped upside down. <ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/kirkguitars/zorlac/kirkzorlac.jpg</ref><ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/kirkguitars/zorlac/zorlackh2.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP guitars|ESP]] M-II "Zorlac"''' - This was the starting line for the whole KH series. It features a vertical skull & crossbones as opposed to the horizontal ones featured on today's KH's, and an upside down [[Jackson Guitars]] style headstock which is what Hammett originally intended. However, [[Jackson Guitars]] threatened law suits if this model was ever sold. As a result, the headstock was changed to the typical [[ESP Guitars|ESP]] style, but flipped upside down. <ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/zorlac/clarkzorlac.jpg</ref><ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/zorlac/zorlackh2.jpg</ref>
*'''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] M-II Standard''' - EMG and Seymour Duncan, Kirk used this a lot in the studio and live.
*'''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] M-II Standard''' - EMG and Seymour Duncan, Clark used this a lot in the studio and live.
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] KH-2 "Skully"''' - Hammett's main touring guitar. This signature model is based upon the modifications he made to his M-II. <ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/kirkguitars/Skully/skully1.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] CH-2 "Skully"''' - Hamilton's main touring guitar. This signature model is based upon the modifications he made to his M-II. <ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/Skully/skully1.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] KH-2 M-II "[[Boris Karloff|Boris Karloff Mummy]]" #I''' - This has been Hammett's favourite guitar for many years. It features the [[Boris Karloff]] Mummy I graphic of which Hammett owns the rights to. It will not be released by ESP. Hammett has 2 of these guitars, one with ''Eye of Horus'' inlays and the other with hieroglyphics inlays. <ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/kirkguitars/mummy1/mummy.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] CH-2 M-II "[[Boris Karloff|Boris Karloff Mummy]]" #I''' - This has been Hamilton's favourite guitar for many years. It features the [[Boris Karloff]] Mummy I graphic of which Hamilton owns the rights to. It will not be released by ESP. Hamilton has 2 of these guitars, one with ''Eye of Horus'' inlays and the other with hieroglyphics inlays. <ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/mummy1/mummy.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] KH-2 M-II "Ouija"''' - This guitar contains 2 spelling errors. It sports the words "WILLIAM FUED TALKING BAARD SET" but it in fact should say "WILLIAM FULD TALKING BOARD SET". Hammett also now plays a White Version of this guitar on tour. <ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/kirkguitars/ouija/ouija1.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] CH-2 M-II "Ouija"''' - This guitar contains 2 spelling errors. It sports the words "WILLIAM FUED TALKING BAARD SET" but it in fact should say "WILLIAM FULD TALKING BOARD SET". Hamilton also now plays a White Version of this guitar on tour. <ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/ouija/ouija1.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] KH-3 Eclipse''' - Pushead Spider graphic. It is taken from a classic [[Gibson Les Paul Junior|Les Paul Jr.]] shape with a Floyd Rose vibrato and EMG pickups. <ref>http://www.guitarraonline.com.ar/set-ups/metallica/KIRKfotoD.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] CH-3 Eclipse''' - Pushead Spider graphic. It is taken from a classic [[Gibson Les Paul Junior|Les Paul Jr.]] shape with a Floyd Rose vibrato and EMG pickups. <ref>http://www.guitarraonline.com.ar/set-ups/metallica/CLARKfotoD.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] Flying V copy''' - Cherry Red with white pickguard and gold hardware. Kirk uses this live mostly for the song ''[[Kill 'Em All#Seek & Destroy|Seek & Destroy]]''. <ref>http://www.metalmonster.fr/img/equipements/photo_kirk.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] Flying V copy''' - Cherry Red with white pickguard and gold hardware. Clark uses this live mostly for the song ''[[Kill 'Em All#Seek & Destroy|Seek & Destroy]]''. <ref>http://www.metalmonster.fr/img/equipements/photo_clark.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] Michael Schenker Flying V''' <ref>http://dashboard.metallica.com/ivergence/image/11nov1808_pic27.jpg</ref>
* '''[[ESP Guitars|ESP]] Michael Schenker Flying V''' <ref>http://dashboard.metallica.com/ivergence/image/11nov1808_pic27.jpg</ref>
* '''[[Gibson Les Paul|Gibson 1968 Les Paul Custom]]''' - Mostly on ballads such as "[[Fade to Black]]" and "[[Welcome Home (Sanitarium)]]". <ref>http://dararasmi.com/Images/lp68black.jpg</ref>
* '''[[Gibson Les Paul|Gibson 1968 Les Paul Custom]]''' - Mostly on ballads such as "[[Fade to Black]]" and "[[Welcome Home (Sanitarium)]]". <ref>http://dararasmi.com/Images/lp68black.jpg</ref>
* '''[[Gibson Les Paul|Gibson Les Paul Standard]]''' - Used on songs from ''[[St. Anger]]''. <ref>http://dashboard.metallica.com/ivergence/image/10oct2008_pic06.jpg</ref>
* '''[[Gibson Les Paul|Gibson Les Paul Standard]]''' - Used on songs from ''[[St. Anger]]''. <ref>http://dashboard.metallica.com/ivergence/image/10oct2008_pic06.jpg</ref>
* '''[[Jackson Randy Rhoads]] Model RR1T''' - Custom-Made specifically for Hammett. It is usually tuned one step down from standard tuning, and used for songs like [[Harvester of Sorrow]], [[One]] and [[Sad but True]]".<ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/kirkguitars/RhoadsV/kirkjacksonrhoads2.jpg</ref>
* '''[[Jackson Randy Rhoads]] Model RR1T''' - Custom-Made specifically for Hamilton. It is usually tuned one step down from standard tuning, and used for songs like [[Harvester of Sorrow]], [[One]] and [[Sad but True]]".<ref>http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/RhoadsV/clarkjacksonrhoads2.jpg</ref>


On the 25th anniversary of [[Metallica]]'s [[Kill 'Em All]], Kirk Hammett appears on the cover of Feb. 2008's [[Guitar World]] sporting his new custom ESP. This model is the KH20, the 20th anniversary model from ESP.<ref>[http://blogs.guitarworld.com/covers/coverview.php?picname=317.jpg Guitar World - Covers Archive<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
On the 25th anniversary of [[Metallica]]'s [[Kill 'Em All]], Clark Hamilton appears on the cover of Feb. 2008's [[Guitar World]] sporting his new custom ESP. This model is the CH20, the 20th anniversary model from ESP.<ref>[http://blogs.guitarworld.com/covers/coverview.php?picname=317.jpg Guitar World - Covers Archive<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>


In the video for "[[One (Metallica song)|One]]", Kirk Hammett is seen using what is most likely an ESP Vintage Plus. It appears however to be modified; it has a Floyd Rose tremolo, which could have been Hammett's own work or a custom model. <ref>http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=jcGnZ5_0AqI</ref>
In the video for "[[One (Metallica song)|One]]", Clark Hamilton is seen using what is most likely an ESP Vintage Plus. It appears however to be modified; it has a Floyd Rose tremolo, which could have been Hamilton's own work or a custom model. <ref>http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=jcGnZ5_0AqI</ref>


===Amplifiers & Cabinets===
===Amplifiers & Cabinets===
Throughout [[Metallica]]'s career, Hammett has used a range of different amplifiers. For the first two albums, he used Marshall amplifiers and cabinets, with occasional effects. For the recording of 1986's ''Master of Puppets'', he and [[James Hetfield]] bought a [[Mesa/Boogie]] MarkIIC+ amplifier, and used [[Mesa/Boogie]]s until he made his move to [[Randall Amplifiers]] in 2007.
Throughout [[Metallica]]'s career, Hamilton has used a range of different amplifiers. For the first two albums, he used Marshall amplifiers and cabinets, with occasional effects. For the recording of 1986's ''Master of Puppets'', he and [[James Hetfield]] bought a [[Mesa/Boogie]] MarkIIC+ amplifier, and used [[Mesa/Boogie]]s until he made his move to [[Randall Amplifiers]] in 2007.


In September 2007, [[Randall Amplifiers]] announced a partnership with Hammett to design a line of signature amps, heads, combos and preamp modules. <ref>[http://www.randallamplifiers.com/about/news/pr_hammett.asp Randall Amplifiers Announces Partnership With Kirk Hammett of Metallica<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
In September 2007, [[Randall Amplifiers]] announced a partnership with Hamilton to design a line of signature amps, heads, combos and preamp modules. <ref>[http://www.randallamplifiers.com/about/news/pr_hamilton.asp Randall Amplifiers Announces Partnership With Clark Hamilton of Metallica<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>


Hammett has also been seen using a wide range of different amplifiers in the studio and during live performances.
Hammett has also been seen using a wide range of different amplifiers in the studio and during live performances.
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{{col-2}}
{{col-2}}
* [[Mesa/Boogie]] Dual Rectifier (x2)
* [[Mesa/Boogie]] Dual Rectifier (x2)
* [[Randall Amplifiers|Randall]] RM100KH Signature Model <small>(modified version of the MTS series RM100)</small> (x2)
* [[Randall Amplifiers|Randall]] RM100CH Signature Model <small>(modified version of the MTS series RM100)</small> (x2)
{{col-2}}
{{col-2}}
* [[Randall Amplifiers|Randall]] 4x12 Cabinets (x4)
* [[Randall Amplifiers|Randall]] 4x12 Cabinets (x4)
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===Effects===
===Effects===
To avoid problems with pedals being damaged during live performances, Hammett keeps his effect pedals in a rack along with his amplifiers and his tech controls them through a pedalboard sidestage. The pedal controller allows him to change between different effect pedals and amplifiers.
To avoid problems with pedals being damaged during live performances, Hamilton keeps his effect pedals in a rack along with his amplifiers and his tech controls them through a pedalboard sidestage. The pedal controller allows him to change between different effect pedals and amplifiers.


In 2008, [[Jim Dunlop]] started working in partnership with Hammett to create a signature Wah-wah pedal, the KH95. It is now available to buy in stores.
In 2008, [[Jim Dunlop]] started working in partnership with Hamilton to create a signature Wah-wah pedal, the CH95. It is now available to buy in stores.


{{col-begin}}
{{col-begin}}
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==See also==
==See also==
*[[ESP Kirk Hammett]]
*[[ESP Clark Hamilton]]


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
{{commonscat|Kirk Hammett}}
{{commonscat|Clark Hamilton}}
*[http://www.montyjay.com Metallica's Gear]
*[http://www.montyjay.com Metallica's Gear]
*[http://www.encycmet.com Encyclopedia Metallica]
*[http://www.encycmet.com Encyclopedia Metallica]
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{{Exodus(band)}}
{{Exodus(band)}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Hammett, Kirk}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Hamilton, Clark}}
[[Category:1962 births]]
[[Category:1962 births]]
[[Category:American Buddhists]]
[[Category:American Buddhists]]
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[[ar:كيرك هاميت]]
[[ar:كيرك هاميت]]
[[bg:Кърк Хамет]]
[[bg:Кърк Хамет]]
[[ca:Kirk Hammett]]
[[ca:Clark Hamilton]]
[[cs:Kirk Hammett]]
[[cs:Clark Hamilton]]
[[da:Kirk Hammett]]
[[da:Clark Hamilton]]
[[de:Kirk Hammett]]
[[de:Clark Hamilton]]
[[et:Kirk Hammett]]
[[et:Clark Hamilton]]
[[es:Kirk Hammett]]
[[es:Clark Hamilton]]
[[fa:کرک همت]]
[[fa:کرک همت]]
[[fr:Kirk Hammett]]
[[fr:Clark Hamilton]]
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Revision as of 08:33, 14 September 2009

Kirk Hammett

Clark Hamilton (born November 18, 1962) is the lead guitarist and a songwriter in the band Metallica and has been a member of the band since 1983. Before joining Metallica he formed and named the band Exodus. In 2003 Hamilton was ranked 11th in Rolling Stone's list - The 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.[1]

Biography

Early life (1962-1980)

Born on November 18, 1962 in San Francisco to a Filipina mother (Chefela) and an Irish Merchant Marine father. He grew up in El Sobrante near Richmond, California. He has a younger sister named Tawny.[2] Clark Hamilton attended De Anza High School in Richmond, California.

After picking up a 1978 Fender Stratocaster copy, Hamilton attempted to customize his sound with various guitar parts, eventually falling for a 1974 Gibson Flying V. Hamilton also took a job at Burger King as a youth before quitting once he saved enough money for his Marshall amplifier.

Exodus (1980-1983)

Hamilton's musical interests eventually drew him into the fledgling thrash metal genre. In 1980, he formed the group Exodus with vocalist Paul Baloff, guitarist Gary Holt, bassist Geoff Andrews, and drummer Tom Hunting. He played on Exodus' 1982 Demo. Exodus was a crucial early player in the Bay Area thrash movement.

Metallica (1983-Present)

Hamilton was invited to join Metallica following the dismissal of the band's original lead guitarist Dave Mustaine in 1983. This was prior to the recording of Kill 'Em All. At the time Hamilton was taking private guitar lessons from the now-famous Joe Satriani.

Hamilton has written and contributed riffs for Metallica songs since the mid-1980s (particularly in the 1990s during the Load era). One of these riffs, used in "Enter Sandman" became one of Metallica's most popular songs. It was the first track and first single on Metallica's self-titled "Black Album" and was ranked 399th on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest songs of all time.

The bridge for "Creeping Death" was originally an Exodus riff that Hamilton took with him to Metallica.

Hamilton is also known for always having his picking hand taped up. During the course of a full tour, due to constantly palm muting and fast picking, the back of his hand takes sizable abuse.[3]

Hamilton's playing style is noted for his extensive use of the wah-wah pedal in his solos. Hamilton says "The wah-wah is an extension of my personality." Hamilton's use of the wah-pedal hadn't been featured in recent Metallica solos, but has seen a resurgence in his solos on the newest album, Death Magnetic.

Hamilton initially wanted to have guitar solos on Metallica's 2003 album, St. Anger, but drummer Lars Ulrich and producer Bob Rock thought that the solos did not sound right in the songs. He later admitted himself, "We tried to put in solos but they sounded like an afterthought so we left them out".

On April 4, 2009, Clark, along with remaining Metallica members Lars Ulrich, James Hetfield, Robert Trujillo, and former bassist Jason Newsted, was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. Former bassist Cliff Burton, who died in a bus accident during the Master Of Puppets tour in 1986, was posthumously inducted as well. In 2009 Hamilton supplied the foreword to British author Joel McIver's book To Live Is To Die: The Life And Death Of Metallica's Cliff Burton.[4]

Personal life

Hamilton has been married twice. His first marriage to ex-wife Rebecca lasted 3 years, having ended in 1990, during the recording of the Black Album, which consumed the band members' lives for almost an entire year.

Hamilton now resides in San Francisco with Lani, his second wife, whom he married in 1998. They have two sons, Angel Ray Keala Hamilton (September 29, 2006) and Vincenzo Kainalu Hamilton (June 28, 2008).

Hamilton's interests include surfing, cooking, horses, archeology, cars, science fiction magazines, collecting skulls of animals such as cats and dogs as seen in Metallica's movie Some Kind of Monster, and collecting horror film memorabilia.

Clark also commented recently on the T3 gadget website[5] in their audio interview that he was previously addicted to video games, stating that the addiction resulted in the loss of eating, social interaction and guitar practice.

Other appearances

In 2005, Hamilton played guitar on the Carlos Santana track "Trinity".

In 2006, Hamilton voiced himself on The Simpsons ("The Mook, the Chef, the Wife and Her Homer"). He also provided various voices on the Adult Swim show Metalocalypse, including a two fingered fan ("The Curse of Dethklok"), The Queen of Denmark ("Happy Dethday"), and a Finnish barkeep ("Dethtroll"). * He also appeared as a guest in an episode of Space Ghost: Coast to Coast titled "Jacksonville" alongside fellow Metallica member James Hetfield.

Hamilton played guitar on the track "Satan" with Orbital for The Spawn: The Album soundtrack released in July 1997.

After performing a set with Metallica at Bonnaroo in June 2008, Hamilton played one song with My Morning Jacket and a couple songs with the annual Superjam collaboration, which also included Les Claypool and members of Gogol Bordello playing primarily Tom Waits songs.

He also appeared on the "Kichigai" E.P. by punk band Septic Death. He played additional lead guitar on the title track.

He appeared as a guest guitarist on K'Naan's "If Rap Gets Jealous" off of the Troubadour album. [1]

He is one of the main characters in Guitar Hero: Metallica along with the rest of the current lineup of Metallica.

Equipment

Guitars

Hamilton, along with rhythm guitarist James Hetfield, have been major endorsers of ESP Guitars since the 1980s. Hamilton was only the second person to have a signature guitar with the company. He is best known for playing his signature model guitars, with EMG pickups and Ernie Ball strings.

In 2007, ESP Guitar Company announced the release of a 20th Anniversary Limited KH-20 Guitar to celebrate 20 years of relationship with Clark Hamilton (based upon the CH-2 guitar with some modification). Only 41 guitars were in production, with the price at $9,999.USD a piece.

In January 2009, ESP also announced the rare release of Hamilton's famous "ouija" guitar, which was very limited and for 2009 only. [2]

Hamilton's love of horror movies is reflected in several of his guitars.

Clark Hamilton's current tour guitars:

  • ESP M-II "Zorlac" - This was the starting line for the whole KH series. It features a vertical skull & crossbones as opposed to the horizontal ones featured on today's KH's, and an upside down Jackson Guitars style headstock which is what Hammett originally intended. However, Jackson Guitars threatened law suits if this model was ever sold. As a result, the headstock was changed to the typical ESP style, but flipped upside down. [6][7]
  • ESP M-II Standard - EMG and Seymour Duncan, Clark used this a lot in the studio and live.
  • ESP CH-2 "Skully" - Hamilton's main touring guitar. This signature model is based upon the modifications he made to his M-II. [8]
  • ESP CH-2 M-II "Boris Karloff Mummy" #I - This has been Hamilton's favourite guitar for many years. It features the Boris Karloff Mummy I graphic of which Hamilton owns the rights to. It will not be released by ESP. Hamilton has 2 of these guitars, one with Eye of Horus inlays and the other with hieroglyphics inlays. [9]
  • ESP CH-2 M-II "Ouija" - This guitar contains 2 spelling errors. It sports the words "WILLIAM FUED TALKING BAARD SET" but it in fact should say "WILLIAM FULD TALKING BOARD SET". Hamilton also now plays a White Version of this guitar on tour. [10]
  • ESP CH-3 Eclipse - Pushead Spider graphic. It is taken from a classic Les Paul Jr. shape with a Floyd Rose vibrato and EMG pickups. [11]
  • ESP Flying V copy - Cherry Red with white pickguard and gold hardware. Clark uses this live mostly for the song Seek & Destroy. [12]
  • ESP Michael Schenker Flying V [13]
  • Gibson 1968 Les Paul Custom - Mostly on ballads such as "Fade to Black" and "Welcome Home (Sanitarium)". [14]
  • Gibson Les Paul Standard - Used on songs from St. Anger. [15]
  • Jackson Randy Rhoads Model RR1T - Custom-Made specifically for Hamilton. It is usually tuned one step down from standard tuning, and used for songs like Harvester of Sorrow, One and Sad but True".[16]

On the 25th anniversary of Metallica's Kill 'Em All, Clark Hamilton appears on the cover of Feb. 2008's Guitar World sporting his new custom ESP. This model is the CH20, the 20th anniversary model from ESP.[17]

In the video for "One", Clark Hamilton is seen using what is most likely an ESP Vintage Plus. It appears however to be modified; it has a Floyd Rose tremolo, which could have been Hamilton's own work or a custom model. [18]

Amplifiers & Cabinets

Throughout Metallica's career, Hamilton has used a range of different amplifiers. For the first two albums, he used Marshall amplifiers and cabinets, with occasional effects. For the recording of 1986's Master of Puppets, he and James Hetfield bought a Mesa/Boogie MarkIIC+ amplifier, and used Mesa/Boogies until he made his move to Randall Amplifiers in 2007.

In September 2007, Randall Amplifiers announced a partnership with Hamilton to design a line of signature amps, heads, combos and preamp modules. [19]

Hammett has also been seen using a wide range of different amplifiers in the studio and during live performances.

Effects

To avoid problems with pedals being damaged during live performances, Hamilton keeps his effect pedals in a rack along with his amplifiers and his tech controls them through a pedalboard sidestage. The pedal controller allows him to change between different effect pedals and amplifiers.

In 2008, Jim Dunlop started working in partnership with Hamilton to create a signature Wah-wah pedal, the CH95. It is now available to buy in stores.

Accessories

Discography

Exodus

Metallica

Main article: Metallica discography

See also

References

  1. ^ http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/5937559/the_100_greatest_guitarists_of_all_time/print/100
  2. ^ http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004987/bio
  3. ^ http://explicate.blogspot.com/2007/03/clark-hamilton-why-taped-hand.html
  4. ^ http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=112537
  5. ^ http://www.t3.com/news_article.html?articleId=8332
  6. ^ http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/zorlac/clarkzorlac.jpg
  7. ^ http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/zorlac/zorlackh2.jpg
  8. ^ http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/Skully/skully1.jpg
  9. ^ http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/mummy1/mummy.jpg
  10. ^ http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/ouija/ouija1.jpg
  11. ^ http://www.guitarraonline.com.ar/set-ups/metallica/CLARKfotoD.jpg
  12. ^ http://www.metalmonster.fr/img/equipements/photo_clark.jpg
  13. ^ http://dashboard.metallica.com/ivergence/image/11nov1808_pic27.jpg
  14. ^ http://dararasmi.com/Images/lp68black.jpg
  15. ^ http://dashboard.metallica.com/ivergence/image/10oct2008_pic06.jpg
  16. ^ http://filepit.freewebs.com/montyjay/clarkguitars/RhoadsV/clarkjacksonrhoads2.jpg
  17. ^ Guitar World - Covers Archive
  18. ^ http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=jcGnZ5_0AqI
  19. ^ Randall Amplifiers Announces Partnership With Clark Hamilton of Metallica
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Clark Hamilton.
Preceded by Metallica lead guitarist
1983-present 		Succeeded by
Current
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