SEPTEMBER 27TH, 1986 is a day that forever changed the music world and the lives of many. 30 years ago on this day Cliff Burton’s life was taken far too soon. Metallica was touring in Europe. Cliff won a card game which gave him the power to chose his bunk that night. He chose to sleep in guitarist Kirk Hammet’s bunk, and Kirk was to sleep in the front of the bus. While traveling to the next city their bus crashed in the early hours of September 27th, 1986 in Sweden. Cliff was thrown out the window of the bus. The whole band was distraught by the tragedy. Though he was only 24 years old Cliff’s time with Metallica had made a huge impact on music. His playing style captivated audiences around the world. Metallica had just released ‘Master of Puppets’, their third album and first for a major label, Elektra Records. The album was a showcase for Burton’s signature playing style. The album went gold, selling over six million copies world wide. A complete success. Burton’s music has inspired many. He not only inspired fans but also was revered by fellow musicians as well. Cliff has even inspired bassists that wasn’t alive at the time of his death. Through videos and live footage like ‘Cliff Em All’ those born well after his death are able to experience the legend and his passion for music. From the grave he is able to inspire many to create music. We can’t imagine how his music would have progressed over time. Metallica has had very talented bassists since his passing but no one will ever hold a flame to Cliff Burton. He personified bass playing. On this day we celebrate the life of Cliff Burton, he has been gone for 30 years and though he lays at rest now, his soul and his music is forever immortalized and lives on in his music and everyone he’s inspired. Continue reading →