Kirk Hammett reflects on his treatment of Jason Newsted during a difficult period for Metallica. After the tragic loss of founding member Cliff Burton, the band struggled to cope with grief and find their direction. Jason Newsted joined as Burton’s replacement, but tensions arose, and Hammett admits regret over how they treated Newsted.

While grieving, the band conducted bass auditions, with Newsted eventually chosen to join. However, the atmosphere during auditions was somber, with the band members still mourning. Unfortunately, instead of seeking support, they directed their unresolved emotions towards Newsted.

In the studio, Newsted’s bass parts were mixed down significantly during the recording of “And Justice For All,” leaving him feeling unheard and undervalued. Looking back, Hammett acknowledges that Newsted became a scapegoat for their unresolved grief.

As the years went on, Newsted’s frustrations grew, culminating in conflicts over his side project, Echobrain. When James Hetfield opposed Newsted’s creative pursuits, Newsted made the difficult decision to leave the band.

 

Newsted’s departure marked a turning point for Metallica, leading to further challenges, including Hetfield’s departure for rehab. Although Robert Trujillo joined as Newsted’s replacement, the emotional toll on Newsted remains a significant chapter in Metallica’s history.