Cliff Burton: The Bass Guitar Virtuoso Who Revolutionized Metal

Cliff Burton, the legendary bassist of Metallica, left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal and bass guitar playing during his short but impactful career. His innovative techniques, classical influences, and groundbreaking approach to the bass guitar helped redefine the role of the instrument in metal music. This article delves deep into Burton’s life, his contributions to Metallica, his unique playing style, and the lasting impact he has had on bass guitarists and metal music as a whole.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Cliff Burton was born in Castro Valley, California, and grew up surrounded by a diverse range of musical influences. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in music, particularly classical compositions. This classical background would later play a crucial role in shaping his unique approach to bass guitar.

As a teenager, Burton began playing bass and quickly developed a passion for the instrument. He spent countless hours practicing, drawing inspiration from a variety of bass players including Stanley Clarke, Phil Lynott, Geezer Butler, and Geddy Lee. This eclectic mix of influences, combined with his classical training, laid the foundation for Burton’s distinctive playing style.

Joining Metallica

Burton’s journey with Metallica began in 1982 when Lars Ulrich and James Hetfield saw him perform with his band Trauma at the Whisky a Go-Go in Los Angeles. Impressed by his skills, they immediately asked Burton to join Metallica. Burton agreed on the condition that the band relocate to El Cerrito, California, a move that would prove instrumental in shaping the band’s early sound and direction.

The Metallica Years

Kill ‘Em All (1983)

Burton’s first album with Metallica, “Kill ‘Em All,” showcased his innovative approach to bass playing in metal. The most notable track from this album is “(Anesthesia) Pulling Teeth,” a bass solo that revolutionized the role of the instrument in heavy metal.

Ride the Lightning (1984)

On “Ride the Lightning,” Burton’s classical influences became more apparent. His work on tracks like “For Whom the Bell Tolls” demonstrated his ability to create intricate, melodic bass lines that were far more than just root note support.

Master of Puppets (1986)

“Master of Puppets,” widely regarded as one of the greatest metal albums of all time, further cemented Burton’s status as a bass virtuoso. His contributions to songs like “Orion” showcased his compositional skills and his ability to seamlessly blend classical elements with thrash metal.

Cliff Burton’s Unique Bass Guitar Techniques

Distortion and Effects

One of Burton’s most significant contributions to bass playing in metal was his use of distortion and effects pedals. He often employed a wah-wah pedal and distortion to create unique sounds that were unprecedented in metal music at the time.

Lead Bass Style

Burton pioneered a lead bass style in metal, often playing complex solos and melodic lines typically reserved for guitars. This approach elevated the bass from a background instrument to a prominent voice in the band’s sound.

Classical Influences

Burton’s classical training allowed him to introduce complex harmonies and structures into Metallica’s music. He often incorporated arpeggios, counterpoint, and harmonic development typically found in classical compositions.

Fingerstyle Technique

While many metal bassists used picks, Burton preferred a fingerstyle technique. This allowed him to achieve a fuller, more rounded tone and execute rapid-fire passages with precision.

Cliff Burton: Gear and Equipment

Basses

Burton’s main instruments included:

1. Rickenbacker 4001: Used on “Kill ‘Em All” and parts of “Ride the Lightning”.
2. Aria SB Black N’ Gold: His primary bass during the “Ride the Lightning” and “Master of Puppets” era.
3. Alembic Spoiler: Used as a backup and for certain studio recordings.

Amplification

Burton’s signature heavy tone came from two valve-powered Mesa Boogie D-180 heads. He used one for a clean signal and the other for processing his effects chain.

Effects

Burton was known for his extensive use of effects pedals, including:

1. Morley Power Wah Boost
2. Electro-Harmonix Bass Balls
3. Ibanez CS9 Stereo Chorus
4. MXR Limiter

Burton’s Impact on Bass Guitar Playing in Metal

Redefining the Role of Bass

Burton’s approach to bass playing in Metallica challenged the conventional role of the instrument in metal. He showed that the bass could be a lead instrument, capable of complex melodies and solos.

Inspiring Future Generations

Burton’s innovative techniques and musical vision continue to inspire generations of metal bassists. His work has influenced countless players to explore the full potential of the bass guitar in heavy music.

Elevating Musical Complexity in Metal

By incorporating his classical training into Metallica’s music, Burton helped elevate the overall musical complexity of metal. His contributions pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the genre.

Legacy and Continued Influence

Despite his tragically short career, Cliff Burton’s impact on bass guitar playing and metal music as a whole cannot be overstated. His innovative approach to the instrument, technical prowess, and musical vision continue to influence bassists across genres.

Posthumous Recognition

Burton was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Metallica in 2009. His playing continues to be studied and admired by musicians worldwide.

Influence on Metallica’s Sound

Even after his passing, Burton’s influence continued to shape Metallica’s sound. The band’s approach to harmony and song structure, particularly on albums like “…And Justice for All,” can be traced back to Burton’s contributions.

Educational Impact

Burton’s playing techniques and approach to the bass guitar are now taught in music schools and bass tutorials worldwide. His solos, particularly “(Anesthesia) Pulling Teeth,” are considered essential study material for aspiring metal bassists.