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Formation and Early Years

Metallica was formed in Los Angeles in 1981 by drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist/vocalist James Hetfield. The band's early lineup included Dave Mustaine (guitar) and Ron McGovney (bass). After relocating to San Francisco, Cliff Burton replaced McGovney in 1983, solidifying Metallica's signature thrash metal sound. Their debut album 'Kill 'Em All' (1983) laid the foundation for their aggressive musical style.

Current Band Members

James Hetfield (rhythm guitar, vocals), Lars Ulrich (drums), Kirk Hammett (lead guitar), and Robert Trujillo (bass) comprise Metallica's current lineup. Hammett joined in 1983 after Dave Mustaine's departure, while Trujillo replaced Jason Newsted in 2003. This formation has remained stable for over two decades.

Original Members

The original Metallica members were James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Dave Mustaine, and Ron McGovney. Mustaine was fired before recording their first album and later founded Megadeth. McGovney left shortly after, replaced by Cliff Burton who played on the band's breakthrough albums 'Ride the Lightning' (1984) and 'Master of Puppets' (1986).

Musical Equipment

James Hetfield primarily uses ESP Explorer and Gibson Flying V guitars with EMG pickups, while Kirk Hammett favors ESP KH models. For amplification, Metallica relies on Mesa/Boogie Mark series and Randall amplifiers. During the 'Ride the Lightning' era, Hetfield used a Gibson Explorer through Marshall amplifiers.

Touring and Collaborations

Metallica's M72 World Tour (2023-2024) features rotating opening acts including Pantera, Mammoth WVH, and Five Finger Death Punch. Historically, they've toured with diverse artists from Guns N' Roses to The San Francisco Symphony. Touring partners vary by location and leg of the tour.

Songwriting and Notable Works

Hetfield and Ulrich are Metallica's primary songwriters. 'Master of Puppets' was written by Hetfield, Ulrich, Burton, and Hammett. 'Nothing Else Matters' was composed solely by Hetfield during a phone call with his girlfriend. Key albums include '...And Justice for All' (1988) and the self-titled 'Black Album' (1991), produced by Bob Rock.

• Bassist Cliff Burton died in a tour bus accident in Sweden (1986), leading to Jason Newsted's recruitment.
• Dave Mustaine's firing created a lifelong rivalry with Megadeth; Metallica's 'The Four Horsemen' reworked Mustaine's original composition.
• James Hetfield entered rehab in 2001, delaying the recording of 'St. Anger' and inspiring the documentary 'Some Kind of Monster'.
• Metallica sued Napster in 2000 over copyright infringement, becoming a landmark case in digital music distribution.