On September 27, 1986, at the height of Metallica’s early rise following the release of Master of Puppets, the band suffered a devastating loss that would change its trajectory forever. While touring in Sweden, the group’s bus skidded off the road in the early morning hours and overturned. Bassist Cliff Burton, just 24 years old, was thrown from his bunk through a window and tragically crushed beneath the vehicle. Widely regarded as one of the most influential bassists in heavy metal, Burton’s death stunned the music world and marked a defining moment in Metallica’s history, coming just as the band was gaining global recognition.
Following the wreck, the bus driver cited black ice as the reason for losing control. However, neither band members nor investigators could find any. Furthermore, the temperature at the time of the accident was multiple degrees above freezing. Some accused the bus driver of being drunk or falling asleep, but he was cleared of wrongdoing.
The month after the accident Jason Newsted replaced Cliff Burton. In 1988 Metallica released To Live Is to Die on …And Justice for All as a tribute to Burton. Burton received credit as a writer for lyrics and the bass part, as the components came from samples by Burton and re-recorded by Newsted.
James Hetfield Car Collection
Beyond the stage, Metallica frontman James Hetfield has long been known for his deep passion for custom cars, particularly American hot rods. His collection reflects a distinct personal style, favoring heavily modified classics that blend vintage design with modern craftsmanship. His celebrity car collection mostly consists of one-of-a-kind builds, featuring hand-formed metalwork, custom interiors, and unique silhouettes that set them apart even in the world of high-end automotive design. Hetfield’s appreciation for the artistry of car building has extended beyond private ownership—selections from his collection have been publicly displayed, including at museums, showcasing not just his love for cars, but his respect for the craftsmanship and creativity behind them.
