Exclusive interview with Lang Lang and Lars Ulrich

Pianist Lang Lang performs "One" with Metallica at the 56th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California January 26, 2014. [Photo provided to China Daily]

After their two successful shows in Shanghai last August, Metallica now feels closer to China. They even performed their classic song "One" with Chinese concert pianist Lang Lang at the 56th annual Grammy Awards, which caused quite a stir.

During an exclusive interview with China Daily, Lars Ulrich, co-founder and drummer of the legendary heavy metal band, and Lang Lang, shared the story behind their collaboration. The band also said they could return to China in 2015.

1. Who came up with the idea to pair Metallica and Lang Lang at the Grammy Awards?

Lars Ulrich: The credit has to go to Peter Mensch, who is Metallica's manager. Grammys traditionally, in the last few years, did a lot of mashups, bringing artists from different genres and different backgrounds together to make an exciting collaboration. So when the Grammys reached out to us, about four months before, the collaboration with Lang Lang was the first and only idea.

2. Of all the crossover shows Metallica and Lang Lang did before, what's special about the Grammy Awards rendition of the classic "One" to you?

Lang Lang: For me, to work with such a legendary band is a great pleasure. The collaboration for me is a milestone. The first rehearsal saw our chemistry of making music together. It was an incredible experience.

Lars Ulrich: I felt like that we've known each other for a whole life. That was really magical. It was just unbelievable effortlessness. We had a great beginning with China during last year's concerts and Lang Lang is a perfect collaborator to continue our journey in China.