Ron McGovney

From MetallicaWiki

Ron McGovney (born November 2, 1962 in Los Angeles, California) is a former American musician, best known as the original bassist in the heavy metal band Metallica.

In June 1982, McGovney formed his first band, Leather Charm, with James Hetfield and guitarist Hugh Tanner of Phantom Lord. Tanner left Leather Charm to pursue a career in music management. The subsequent lineup of the group featured guitarist Troy James and drummer Jim Mulligan. The group rehearsed a set of New Wave of British Heavy Metal covers and original material for some months, but Mulligan's departure later that year led to the band's demise.

Hetfield next began Metallica, a new project with drummer Lars Ulrich, late in 1981. With the addition of McGovney and guitarist Dave Mustaine, the first gigging lineup of the band was complete. After their first performance on March 14, the band spent 1982 accruing a local following in the Los Angeles heavy metal scene. The group recorded several demos during this time, including one from his own garage, Power Metal, and most notably No Life 'Til Leather. A recording of "Hit The Lights" with McGovney playing bass was featured on a repressing of the Metal Massacre album.

McGovney's time with Metallica was reportedly tumultuous, as he often clashed with Ulrich and Mustaine. He felt his role was that of monetary and transportation provider, rather than a respected member of the band. He ultimately quit on December 12, 1982 due to these growing tensions, and was replaced by Cliff Burton. After leaving Metallica, McGovney became disillusioned with playing music and sold most of his equipment.