The family of late Metallica bassist Cliff Burton held a special event on Tuesday, February 10, at the Chabot Theater in Castro Valley, California, to honor him on what would have been his birthday. The gathering featured Faith No More drummer Mike Bordin and members of Metallica’s road crew from the legendary Damage, Inc. tour, which supported the band’s early albums. Cliff Burton played on Metallica’s first three studio albums: “Kill ‘Em All,” “Ride the Lightning,” and “Master of Puppets.” Tragically, he passed away in September 1986 at the age of 24 in a bus accident during the band’s European tour.
Cliff Burton was more than just Metallica’s original bassist; he was the heart and soul of their early sound. His contributions gave the band’s music a unique depth and complexity. When you listen to “Kill ‘Em All,” “Ride the Lightning,” and especially “Master of Puppets,” you can hear how his bass lines added melody and emotion, rather than just following the guitars.
One standout moment is “(Anesthesia) — Pulling Teeth,” which was not just a flashy solo but a bold statement for bass in metal. In 1983, few metal bands showcased their bassists like Cliff did, and he truly earned his spotlight.
Another iconic piece is “Orion,” where the middle section creates a haunting beauty amidst the heavy sound. Cliff brought a new dimension to Metallica, making their music heavier, smarter, and more layered. He wasn’t just keeping the rhythm; he was pushing the boundaries of what metal could be. Even decades later, his influence is still felt in those classic songs. That’s his lasting legacy.
