Jason Newsted Performs for Animals at Busch Wildlife Sanctuary

Former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted performed acoustically for animals at the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary in Jupiter, Florida, the veteran metal musician’s city of residence.

The performance came as part of a music enrichment event for the animals to stimulate curiosity and reduce stress. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest wildlife rehabilitation center in South Florida, admitting over 5,000 animals annually for its rehabilitation services.

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In a video shared on Instagram, Newsted is singing John Lennon’s “Imagine” for the animals, with a gray fox jumping on his lap and licking the musician’s hand as he plays guitar in one scene.

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The sanctuary stated, “Every animal responds differently, and it was incredible to watch their individual reactions to the sounds and rhythms throughout the session! A heartfelt thank you to Jason and his wife, Nicole, for not only being such passionate supporters of Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, but also for bringing this thoughtful and creative idea to life to help enhance the quality of care we provide to the animals who call Busch home.”

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Nicole Newsted, wife of Jason, said in a comment on the Instagram post, “Grayson, the resident gray fox at Busch Wildlife Sanctuary also battled and beat throat cancer,” in reference to Jason’s recent successful battle against the disease.

Jason is currently gearing up for a tour with his group Jason Newsted & The Chophouse Band this summer, playing headline shows and gigs supporting Blackberry Smoke. Tickets for that tour are available via Ticketmaster and the band’s website .

Watch a clip of Newsted’s performance at the animal sanctuary and view the complete Instagram post below.

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_Originally reported by [Consequence](https://consequence.net/2026/05/jason-newsted-acoustic-set-animals-wildlife-sanctuary/)._