Metallica

Metallica is an American Thrash Metal band formed in 1981 . The original lineup was James Hetfield (Vocalist and Rhythm guitarist), Dave Mustaine (Lead Guitar), Lars Ulrich (Drums), Ron McGovney (Bassist). The group came into mainstream from their Self-Titled album and the hit single "Enter Sandman".

With their first two albums, Kill 'Em All and Ride The Lightning reaching underground success, their third effort, Master of Puppets has since become one of the most important heavy metal albums ever, as it became the first thrash metal album to be certified platinum. The title track has since become the band's most played song live.

On September 27, 1986, bass player Cliff Burton was killed after he was thrown out of the window and crushed to death.

Metallica released their first music video in 1989. The song was One from their 1988 album, ...And Justice For All. The song received heavy critical acclaim and has since become their most played song from the album. The album also saw the debut of new bassist, Jason Newsted.

Their fifth album, Metallica (also known as the Black Album), took more of a mainstream approach and has since become one of the best selling albums in America, certified 16x Platinum. The album spawned five singles, Enter Sandman, The Unforgiven, Nothing Else Matters, Wherever I May Roam and Sad But True.

After Load, ReLoad, Jason left the band and the heavily criticised St. Anger featured longtime producer Bob Rock play the bass, although Robert Trujillo would later be handed the job of permanent bass player.

Metallica's ninth studio album, Death Magnetic received critical acclaim as the band return to their thrash roots from the 80s. Critics have called it the best Metallica album in 20 years. The album also made Metallica become the first band to ever receive five consecutive albums debut at number 1 in the Billboard 200. It was also Robert Trujillo's debut on a Metallica album. The song, My Apocalypse, won Metallica a Grammy in 2009 for Best Metal Performance.

Metallica's tenth studio album, Hardwired... to Self-Destruct, would be released worldwide on November 18, 2016 via their independent label, Blackened Recordings. They also unveiled the track listing, album artwork, and released a music video for the album's first single, "Hardwired" . The album was released as scheduled and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 .

Metallica is currently on a worldwide tour called "WorldWired Tour" with Avenged Sevenfold and Volbeat.