William Shatner finds answer to 'What the f— is heavy metal?' after forming new band at 95: news

William Shatner Explores Heavy Metal: The Star Trek Icon Forms a Metal Project in His Mid-90s

Legendary actor, author, and cultural icon William Shatner has once again defied conventional genre boundaries by immersing himself in heavy metal music. Best known for portraying Captain James T. Kirk in the original Star Trek franchise, the prolific performer has spent decades expanding his creative horizons through spoken-word albums, rock collaborations, and experimental music projects.

Finding the Essence of Heavy Metal

Approaching his mid-90s with relentless creative momentum, Shatner recently addressed the genre’s defining characteristics with his trademark candid curiosity, inquiring about what truly defines heavy metal music. To answer the question firsthand, the veteran artist teamed up with established rock and metal musicians to build a project centered around the genre’s signature sonic weight, aggressive guitar tones, and driving rhythmic pulse.

Through this collaborative process, Shatner experienced the technical complexity, thematic intensity, and high-decibel energy that separate heavy metal from traditional rock styles. His distinctive spoken-word cadence and dramatic delivery serve as a natural counterpart to distorted riffs, shifting tempos, and heavy percussion.

A Legacy of Musical Experimentation

This latest venture builds upon a long history of unexpected musical exploration throughout Shatner’s career:

• Pioneering Spoken-Word Rock: Beginning with his 1968 debut The Transformed Man, Shatner introduced a singular dramatic interpretation of classic songs.

• Critically Acclaimed Collaborations: His 2004 record Has Been, produced by Ben Folds, earned widespread critical praise for its emotional resonance and eclectic guest lineup.

• Genre Crossing: In subsequent years, Shatner explored space rock (Seeking Major Tom), country (Why Not Me), and holiday music, collaborating with legendary guitarists and instrumentalists worldwide.

By diving headfirst into heavy metal, Shatner continues to challenge expectations, demonstrating that artistic curiosity, cross-genre collaboration, and creative reinvention carry no expiration date.