Billy Strings Joins Tool for “The Grudge” in Nashville

Photo Credit: Christoper Morley/ Travis Shinn

On Tuesday night, Jan. 23, Tool arrived in Nashville, Tenn., for a tour stop at the Bridgestone Arena. During the final offering of their initial set, the band brought out a local resident and past live collaborator, Billy Strings, to assist on the night’s display of “The Grudge.” 

Last night’s sit-in was the second time that the bluegrass golden boy had turned up to assist the progressive metal act, stemming from their initial coming together, which occurred on October 11, 2023, at Salt Lake City’s Delta Center. During the collaboration, Strings assisted his hosts on the song “Jambi” from their 2006 set, 10,000 Days. 

Following a display of material that touches on past deliverables like Fear Inoculum, Ænima, Undertow, and the aforementioned 10,000 Days collection, vocalist Maynard James Kennan addressed the audience, “This kid, Billy Strings,” which beckoned the guest appearance. 

Strings arrived on the Nashville stage clutching his electric guitar, which he lent licks on as the musicians dipped into Tool’s Lateralus cut, “The Grudge.” During the evening’s collaboration, Strings and guitarist Adam Jones swapped licks, and the band lent space for a solo from their guest. 

Listen to a fan captured recording below. Read more about Strings past sit in with Tool.