Imagine the roar of a legendary metal band shaking the foundations of a sold-out arena, all in the name of helping sick kids—sounds epic, right? That's exactly what went down when METALLICA rocked out at San Francisco's Dreamfest benefit concert, blending high-energy thrills with heartfelt charity work that you won't want to miss the details on.
On October 16, 2025, we're reflecting on METALLICA's electrifying performance from the night before (Wednesday, October 15) at the Chase Center in San Francisco, California. This wasn't just any gig—it was part of Salesforce's annual Dreamfest, a star-studded fundraising extravaganza dedicated to supporting UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital. For beginners who might be new to this, Dreamfest is like a rock concert meets a high-tech conference party, where big names in music come together to raise money for kids' health, often in partnership with Salesforce's Dreamforce event, which attracts tech enthusiasts from around the globe.
Tickets to this unforgettable night, which also featured pop star Benson Boone, kicked off at a hefty $1,500, available through www.theconcertforkids.org. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the evening kicked off with an exclusive VIP cocktail reception inside the Chase Center, setting a luxurious tone before the music even started.
As the crowd settled in, METALLICA hit the stage amid a bustling setup of food buffets, interactive experiences, and more—think of it as a full-blown festival vibe right in the venue. Frontman James Hetfield, ever the charismatic host, kicked things off after their opening track 'Creeping Death' with a warm invitation: 'We're here to have some fun, so join us.' He added, 'Welcome to the Dreamfest party. Where did you all come from?' Whether folks had traveled from distant lands or just down the street, Hetfield made it clear: 'We're happy you're here.' It's moments like these that show how rock stars can turn a concert into a communal celebration, fostering a sense of belonging that resonates deeply with fans.
The band's setlist, as captured by Setlist.fm, was a masterclass in METALLICA classics, perfect for both die-hard fans and newcomers dipping their toes into metal:
- Creeping Death
- For Whom The Bell Tolls
- Fuel
- The Memory Remains
- The Unforgiven
- Sad But True
- Wherever I May Roam
- Nothing Else Matters
- Seek & Destroy
- One
- Master Of Puppets
- Enter Sandman
Fan-filmed videos of the performance are circulating online, letting you relive the energy even if you couldn't be there—check them out below to see the crowd's reactions and the band's raw power in action.
But here's where it gets controversial... Back when the concert was first teased in August, METALLICA shared a statement expressing their honor at being invited back: 'We're honored to announce that we've once again been asked to play at Dreamfest, the concert benefiting UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals in San Francisco. Held in conjunction with Dreamforce, Salesforce's annual technology conference, the show will take place at Chase Center on October 15, 2025. We look forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to the Bay Area for the conference and the show!' This collaboration between heavy metal icons and a corporate tech giant might surprise some, blending genres and worlds that don't always mix—do you think it's a brilliant partnership or a bit of an odd fit? And this is the part most people miss: the juxtaposition of METALLICA's intense, rebellious sound with a high-ticket charity event for kids could spark debates about accessibility. Is it fair that only those who can afford sky-high prices get to enjoy it, or does the cause justify the means?
Interestingly, when METALLICA headlined the ninth annual Dreamfest in 2018 at Civic Center Plaza, things got heated—not from the music, but from the noise complaints. Some San Francisco residents were upset as the sound carried far across the city, with reports of it being audible even in neighborhoods like Dogpatch, Cole Valley, and the Mission. For those unfamiliar with these areas, they're vibrant spots in the city, and the idea of a concert echoing miles away highlights the challenges of hosting loud events in urban settings. It raises questions: Should city planners better insulate these areas for such events, or do residents need to expect some disruption for a good cause? It's a classic clash between community impact and charitable intent.
Dreamfest has a rich history of hosting musical giants who've drawn massive crowds, including acts like FLEETWOOD MAC, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS, FOO FIGHTERS, U2, and GREEN DAY. Each year, it builds on this legacy, turning the event into a must-attend spectacle that not only entertains but also educates attendees about children's health issues through interactive elements.
Since its launch in 2010, these benefit concerts have been incredibly successful, raising an impressive $120 million for UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals. To put that in perspective, that's enough to fund countless treatments, research, and support services for kids battling serious illnesses—imagine the difference it's made in real lives, like helping a child access life-saving care they otherwise couldn't afford.
Wrapping it up, METALLICA tweeted excitedly about returning: 'We’re excited to return to the Dreamfest stage on October 15, 2025, at San Francisco’s Chase Center to benefit @ucsfchildrens! Now through September 3, Fifth Members can enter to win tickets to this unforgettable event! Only at #DF25. Enter the Contest ➡️… pic.twitter.com/2j0fFygED5' — Metallica (@Metallica) August 21, 2025.
What do you think— is METALLICA's involvement in Dreamfest a perfect match of music and philanthropy, or does the high cost and potential noise issues make you question if events like this truly benefit everyone? Do you agree that corporate-sponsored charity concerts are the way forward, or should they be more inclusive? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear if this sparks any heated debates or new perspectives!
