Metallica
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![Dave Mustaine went on to found rival band Megadeth after being released from the band in 1983.](/Images/godic/202412/18/Priest_feast_22_-_megadeth_055155.jpg")
![Jason Newsted joined Metallica soon after Cliff Burton's death in 1986.](/Images/godic/202412/18/Jason_Curtis_Newsted5155.jpg")
![Metallica performing during its Damaged Justice tour in 1988](/Images/godic/202412/18/Metallica_Damaged_Justice_Tour5155.jpg")
Metallica is an American heavy metal band formed in Los Angeles, California. Metallica was formed in 1981 when vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield responded to an advertisement posted by drummer Lars Ulrich in a local newspaper. The band's current line-up comprises founding members Hetfield and Ulrich, longtime lead guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo. Guitarist Dave Mustaine and bassists Ron McGovney, Cliff Burton and Jason Newsted are former members of the band.