Interview: Stephen Gates - Graphic Designer - Metallica's Blackened Whiskey
Meet The MAN Behind Metallica's SUCCESSFUL Whiskey Branding and Cool M72 Merchandise: Stephen Gates
4/4/2025
In this interview, we talk with Stephen Gates: Founder and Executive Creative Director of CRZY Design. The agency is responsible for the visual identity of BLACKENED Premium American Blended Whiskey — the official whiskey of Metallica. He shares how he got involved with the project, what it was like collaborating with the Metallica team, and the creative process behind the brand. We dive into stories about James Hetfield’s handwriting, the creation of his custom Metallica font "HetFont Bold", and how it became part of the Blackened identity design. We also chat about his favorite Metallica concerts, design challenges, and obviously GUITAR PICKS!
Find Stephen Gates and CRZY design:
💻 Web: https://www.crzydesign.com
📷 Instagram: / crzy.design
🎙️ Podcast: https://www.thecrazy1.com
