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Metallica Sparks Controversy Performing Banned “Delilah” in Cardiff

6/29/2026

Summary

Metallica Defies Ban

Metallica performed Tom Jones’s “Delilah” at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on June 28.
The Welsh Rugby Union had banned the song in 2023 because its lyrics reference domestic violence.
The WRU said it condemns domestic violence and finds the performance upsetting.
Tom Jones previously told a Cardiff Castle audience in July 2023 that fans could continue singing the song.

Summary

Concert Updates

Metallica will launch a 24-date “Life Burns Faster” residency at Las Vegas’ Sphere from October 1 2026 through March 13 2027 after the UK leg of their M72 World Tour.
After completing a UK/European circuit this summer, 86-year-old Tom Jones will begin a North American tour in fall 2026.
A Principality Stadium spokesperson said that in 2023 experts deemed the song “Delilah” problematic and upsetting, reinforcing the 2015 decision to remove it from halftime playlists.

Summary

Metallica Shatters Records

The Welsh Rugby Union’s chief executive resigned in 2023 after allegations of sexism, misogyny and racism, coinciding with the renewed ban on “Delilah.”
Metallica’s European leg has broken attendance records at multiple venues, according to the tour’s latest report.
The tour’s schedule ends with back-to-back shows at London Stadium on July 1 and July 3, 2026.
Thirteen unexpected musicians have filled Metallica’s parts during various 2026 tour concerts.

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Metallica Defies Ban

Metallica performed Tom Jones’s “Delilah” at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on June 28.
The Welsh Rugby Union had banned the song in 2023 because its lyrics reference domestic violence.
The WRU said it condemns domestic violence and finds the performance upsetting.
Tom Jones previously told a Cardiff Castle audience in July 2023 that fans could continue singing the song.

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