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Metallica

Metallica is an American heavy metal band formed in Los Angeles in 1981 by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Metallica is an American heavy metal band formed in Los Angeles in 1981 by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich. The band's current lineup features Hetfield, Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo. Metallica is one of the best-selling and most influential metal acts in history.

History

Metallica formed in 1981 after Hetfield and Ulrich connected in Los Angeles. The band later became based in San Francisco and rose to prominence as one of the defining groups of thrash metal. Metallica helped develop speed metal in the early and mid-1980s.

Members

The current lineup includes James Hetfield on vocals and rhythm guitar, Lars Ulrich on drums, Kirk Hammett on lead guitar, and Robert Trujillo on bass. Earlier members included Cliff Burton, who died in a 1986 tour bus accident near Stockholm, and Jason Newsted.

Commercial success

Metallica is widely recognized as one of the best-selling acts in American music history. Its album *Metallica* (the Black Album) is commonly cited as its best-selling release.

Legacy

The band is regarded as one of the most influential metal groups of all time. Its work helped shape the sound and popularity of heavy metal and thrash metal.

Key facts

  • Metallica was formed in 1981 in Los Angeles by James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich.
  • The current lineup consists of Hetfield, Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo.
  • Cliff Burton was Metallica's bassist until his death in a 1986 tour bus accident.
  • Metallica helped develop speed metal in the early and mid-1980s.
  • Metallica has had a major following in Canada and has regularly toured Canadian cities.
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Canadian context

Metallica has had a major following in Canada and has regularly toured Canadian cities, making it a significant live act for Canadian rock and metal audiences.

Frequently asked questions

Who are the members of Metallica?
The current members are James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett, and Robert Trujillo.
How old is James Hetfield?
James Hetfield was born on August 3, 1963, which makes him 62 years old as of July 23, 2026.
What is Metallica's best-selling album?
Metallica's best-selling album is generally considered to be *Metallica* (1991), also known as the Black Album.
When did Metallica form?
Metallica formed in 1981 in Los Angeles.
What happened to Cliff Burton?
Cliff Burton died in a tour bus accident near Stockholm, Sweden, in 1986 while Metallica was touring in support of *Master of Puppets*.
Is Metallica still touring?
Yes. Metallica remains an active band and continues to tour.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metallica
    Supports: Current lineup, formation year, general band overview, and base in San Francisco.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Metallica
    Supports: Founding, principal members, Cliff Burton's death, and band history.
  3. Metallica — https://www.metallica.com/history/
    Supports: Official band history, formation date, founders, and early lineup.