William Shatner is currently exploring the possibility of bringing his highly ambitious heavy metal studio project to the live stage for an unprecedented concert event. The proposed live production is being envisioned as a hybrid of a traditional concert, a theatrical performance, and a massive celebration of heavy music’s cultural legacy. The immersive live spectacle aims to blend a lineup of legendary guest musicians and cinematic visual elements with the unmistakable narrative charisma that has defined Shatner‘s historic six-decade career.
Anticipation for the project has surged following the announcement that iconic drummer Mikkey Dee, who spent decades anchoring Motörhead before joining Scorpions, has completed the drum tracks for Shatner‘s heavy-hitting rendition of the Judas Priest anthem “Living After Midnight“.
Discussing his creative vision for the track’s rhythm, William Shatner explained the vital role of heavy percussion:
“I needed pounding beats to make the music feel the way I feel it,” William Shatner said. “The drums drive the emotion. They create the urgency, the excitement, the danger. Heavy metal should hit you in the chest and move your soul at the same time.”
Mikkey Dee is just one part of a staggering roster of legendary rock and metal percussionists recruited to provide the rhythmic foundation for the album. The studio sessions feature an elite lineup of talent, including Dave Lombardo of Slayer and the Misfits, former Megadeth drummer Chris Adler, Black Sabbath icon Vinny Appice, and Carmine Appice of Vanilla Fudge and Cactus. They are joined by renowned session ace Kenny Aronoff, former AC/DC and UFO drummer Simon Wright, and Bobby Rondinelli of Blue Öyster Cult and Quiet Riot. Rounding out the powerful percussion lineup are Matt Starr, Steve Zing of Danzig and Samhain, and Fred Aching of Kings of Thrash.
Behind the scenes, the recording sessions are being guided by a prominent production team spearheaded by Adam Hamilton of L.A. Guns and the Brian Jonestown Massacre, alongside Cleopatra Records president Brian Perera. The engineering and production lineup is completed by Derek Hughes, Marcus Nand, and Jürgen Engler of industrial metal veterans Die Krupps.
At 95 years old, Shatner is treating the upcoming record as a serious, full-scale artistic statement rather than a simple novelty gimmick. The project is specifically designed to blend his commanding vocal presence with a cinematic, physical metal landscape that honors the raw energy of classic heavy music. Official album details, including the final title, release date, and additional unannounced high-profile guest stars, are expected to be unveiled in the near weeks.
