Metallica Members

Cliff Burton

Early Life

  • Born on February 10, 1962 in Castro Valley, California
  • Began playing the piano at the age of six and switched to the bass guitar at the age of 13
  • Studied music theory and classical music at Chabot College

Career with Metallica

  • Joined Metallica as the bassist in 1982, replacing Ron McGovney
  • Contributed to the band's success and popularity in the heavy metal genre
  • Participated in the band's albums "Kill 'Em All," "Ride the Lightning," and "Master of Puppets"
  • Known for his virtuosic bass playing and songwriting contributions to the band

Personal Life

  • Died on September 27, 1986 in a bus accident in Sweden during the band's European tour

Legacy

  • Considered one of the greatest bassists of all time
  • Has been cited as an influence by numerous musicians and bands
  • Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Metallica in 2009
  • A memorial statue in his honor was erected in his hometown of Castro Valley, California in 2018

Awards and Recognition

  • Received numerous posthumous awards and accolades throughout his career, including multiple Grammy Awards and MTV Music Video Awards.

Metallica members