By Josh 
The Satanic Panic era would undoubtedly implode if its fervent subscribers caught wind of today’s metal scene. Those who once believed The Beatles and Led Zeppelin were sneaking devilish messages into their tracks would likely lose their minds watching Metallica shred on stage amidst fire and demonic imagery.
At the height of the Satanic Panic, religious groups feared music was a tool of the devil, using backward masking and hidden messages to corrupt the innocent. Ezekiel 28:13 was often cited as proof that musical talent was a divine gift and, therefore, any deviation toward rock ‘n’ roll was an affront to God.
Yet, much of the paranoia surrounding hidden messages was laughable. For example, Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) mocked these theories with their song “Fire on High,” which featured reversed lyrics that sarcastically proclaimed, “The music is reversible, but time is not; turn back, turn back.” Their message? Stop overanalyzing and just enjoy the music.
Metallica, a favorite target for accusations of satanism, has also dabbled in playful hidden messages—but they’re far from sinister. At the end of their cover of Diamond Head’s “Helpless,” instead of a devilish proclamation, listeners are treated to a glimpse of studio life.
After Kirk Hammett’s blistering solo, James Hetfield cheerfully yells, “See ya!” Meanwhile, Lars Ulrich’s studio instructions echo in the background: “Keep it going and keep it ringing out. Let it ring out… Okay, turn it off now.”
Far from worshiping Beelzebub, Metallica simply gives fans a peek behind the curtain—a reminder that even metal legends are just a group of guys enjoying their craft.
The Satanic Panic may have fizzled, but its absurd legacy lives on, offering a humorous lens through which to view the theatrics of modern metal. After all, sometimes a killer riff is just a killer riff.