Three days before Metallica rocked Lincoln Financial Field in the first of two Philadelphia shows, more than 150 of the band’s fans came together to do some good.

The American Red Cross joined Metallica and its Foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH), to encourage fans to give blood and help strengthen the blood supply leading into summer.

Philly is one of 11 cities across the U.S. to host a Red Cross X Metallica Blood Drive as part of the band’s M72 World Tour. The drive kicked off Metallica’s multi-day takeover of the city, which included tribute performances, pop-up shops, a film screening, volunteer opportunities and even bowling.

From teens going to their first Metallica show to those who rocked out to the band in the 1980s, fans descended on the stadium’s Field House on May 20th to roll up a sleeve and donate lifesaving blood for patients who need it. Those who came out to give left the drive with a limited-edition Red Cross X Metallica T-shirt and guitar pick.

The drive collected 152 units of blood. For more than a third of the donors, it was the first time they tried giving blood.

“Seeing how easy it was, I need to make it a regular thing. I was afraid of needles, and I didn’t even feel it,” shared Chris, who has been a Metallica fan for 28 years. “I’m wearing my Metallica T-shirt, and this will be my 35th show.”

Metallica fan and first-time blood donor Traci has traveled the world to see the band, including Europe, Canada, Mexico and Israel. She also had tickets to both Philly shows.

“I’m a first-time donor. I was nervous,” she said during her donation. “I’m a Metallica fan so I came, I did it, and apparently, I’m passing with flying colors.”

The drive also encouraged donors who aren’t regular donors to give it another try.

“I gave blood in high school but haven’t done it for a while,” shared Zachary, who estimates seeing Metallica in concert around 20 times. “I saw the Metallica thing – the promotion. I’m a big fan, so this is a good reason to donate and give back.”

Ben hadn’t donated blood since having a heart attack eight years ago.

“Metallica sponsored this, so I said if I qualify, I’m going to start doing it again. So that’s why I’m here today,” he shared. “I’ll continue to do it and encourage others to donate too.”

Many Metallica fans who came out to drive were already long-time blood donors.

“Metallica brought me out today, wearing my Metallica T-shirt,” said Katherine. “I try to donate three times a year. I know donating blood can help people, so why not?”

A high school senior and “big fan of Metallica,” Jacob came to the drive looking to make his third-ever blood donation.

“I’ve only donated twice, but once the 56 days are done, I’ll donate again,” he said. “I’ve got O negative, and I’ve got to get it out as much as I can.”

Jordana was there to make her ninth donation. “I like going different places for blood drives in the city. And it feels good; it feels like I’m helping out,” she said. “I’m a little nervous when they put the needle in. After that, I find it relaxing.”

All Within My Hands takes advantage of opportunities on the road to contribute to each community Metallica’s M72 World Tour visits. To learn more about Foundation, visit allwithinmyhands.org.

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Written by Alana Mauger and Judith Weeks