Saxon’s Brian Tutler Reflects on Bloodstock, Diamondhead, Metallica, and the Magic of Live Metal

In this lively episode, Pipeman sits down with Brian Tutler from Saxon at the 25th anniversary of Bloodstock Festival. The conversation covers the evolution of iconic rock festivals, stories from the golden era of metal, influences across generations, and Brian Tutler’s unique journey from Diamond Head to Saxon. This episode is packed with insider anecdotes, festival nostalgia, and reflections on the enduring power of rock and metal.Main Topics CoveredBloodstock Festival: Growth and CommunityComparisons: Bloodstock, Wacken, HellfestEarly Days of Metallica & Diamond Head ConnectionsLive Music: Embracing ImperfectionMusic Influences, Collecting Band Merch, and LegacySaxon’s Enduring Passion for Live PerformanceBehind-the-Scenes Stories: Metal LegendsKey Discussions & StoriesBloodstock and Major Metal FestivalsPipeman and Brian Tutler reminisce about how Bloodstock has evolved from 600 attendees in Derby Assembly Rooms in 2002 to a massive family-like event celebrating 25 years 00:40.Comparisons between Bloodstock, Hellfest, and Wacken, with Wacken described as “possibly the biggest gig I’ve ever done” 01:03.Epic anecdote of festival size at Wacken: stages so far apart it might take an hour to walk between them 01:38.The US Festival & Iconic MomentsPipeman shares memories from the 1983 US Festival—comparing the rush into the infield at Bloodstock to running for the stage at massive stadium events 01:56.The legendary Van Halen story: David Lee Roth forgetting the lyrics and telling 300,000 fans, “I fucking forgot the words”—to massive cheers 02:39.Onstage Authenticity & Human Side of MusiciansBoth agree that live shows are all about the energy, passion, and authenticity—even if there are mistakes (Brian Tutler: “The audience, they’re there for the show, the energy and the passion” 03:29).Saxon, Diamond Head & Metallica: The Influential WebBrian Tutler reflects on the early LA shows where Metallica opened for Saxon, playing more Diamond Head covers than their own songs 04:12.Discussion on how Metallica’s covers of Diamond Head songs, particularly “Am I Evil”, helped sustain Diamond Head both in recognition and royalties for over 30 years 06:49.Pipeman and Brian Tutler highlight the openness of Metallica in crediting their influences, which is rare among major bands 09:28.Behind the Scenes: Merch, Memories & Metal KinshipPipeman shares his connection to Armored Saint, making their first official merch at age 15, leading to a discussion about Lars Ulrich’s lifelong habit of collecting vintage band shirts 07:57, 09:01.Brian Tutler mentions seeing Lars wear shirts from bands like Budgie, Girlschool, and Radio Moscow 09:06.Touring Life & Staying Power of RockBrian Tutler talks about the realities of life on tour: travel, hard work, but the irreplaceable “buzz” of being on stage 04:48.Humorous account of Lars Ulrich hiring a taxi for a 110-mile trip after a sweaty, packed 100 Club gig 11:03.Reflections on what it means to stay passionate: “Once you become a rock fan, it never leaves. You’re there for life.” 11:47Notable QuotesOn Live Performance:“They always say there is no drug like being on stage and playing to thousands of people. So it’s something we all crave...” — Brian Tutler 04:55On Influences:“They wore their influences proudly on their sleeve, didn’t they? …they were more open than most to say, look, this is where it came from.” — Brian Tutler 09:28On Being a Rock Fan:“Once you become a rock fan, it never leaves. You’re there for life.” — Brian Tutler 11:47On Diamond Head/Metallica Relationship:“It’s been a massive help for Diamond Head in respect and being an influential band, not to mention, you know, royalties.” — Brian Tutler 06:55On Festival Experiences:“It’s still like a family though here…” — Pipeman 00:53Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-adventures-of-pipeman--941822/support.Click Here to Subscribe for PERKS, BONUS Content & FREE GIVEWAYS!Follow @pipemanradio on all socials & Pipeman Radio Requests & Info at www.linktr.ee/pipemanradioStream The Adventures of Pipeman daily & live Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays at 1PM ET on W4CY Radio & Talk 4 TV. Download, Rate & Review the Podcast at The Adventures of Pipeman, Pipeman Radio, Talk 4 Media, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & All Podcast Apps.