Metallica has had some serious talent in the bass department over the years, but when it comes to Jason Newsted and Cliff Burton, fans love to debate their styles. According to those who played alongside them, each brought something unique to the band.
Cliff Burton was a force of nature—aggressive, intricate, and always pushing the boundaries of what a bassist could do in a metal band. His playing was technical and wild, loaded with fast runs and a lead-guitar-like approach that gave early Metallica a raw, untamed energy.
Jason Newsted, on the other hand, was all about power and precision. He understood the art of keeping things simple but effective, laying down a rock-solid foundation that helped drive the band’s sound. His playing might not have been as flashy as Burton’s, but it packed a serious punch and kept Metallica’s post-Justice albums sounding massive.
Both bassists left their mark in different ways, and while fans will always argue over who was “better,” the truth is they both shaped Metallica’s evolution in their own right.
Exploring Metallica’s Bass Evolution: Newsted’s Art of Simplicity vs. Burton’s Complexity
