Montgomery County, VA – A historic moment occurred at Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium on Wednesday, May 7th, when Metallica took center field for the first time – marking not just a memorable night for Hokie Nation, but for Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV).
For decades, Virginia Tech football fans have roared to life as Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” echoed through Lane Stadium. Recognized nationally, this tradition has helped earn Lane Stadium a top five ranking among the toughest places to play in college football. It also has been ranked one the “most electric entrances” in the sport, powerful enough to register on a seismograph.
Metallica’s performance at Lane Stadium wasn’t just a cultural moment that honored Hokie tradition, it was a moment that blended sports, music, and community in Virginia’s New River Valley in remarkable fashion. An estimated 80,000 to 100,000 visitors packed into the stadium and surrounding area, making it an event that won’t quickly be forgotten.
Thank you, Metallica, for making Virginia’s New River Valley a place where legendary moments can happen.
“Exit light / Enter night / Take my hand / We’re off to never-never land…”
Watch clips of the concert from WDBJ7 here.
View a portion of the “Enter Sandman” performance here.
Browse Virginia Tech’s photos of the event here.
Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.
