JAMES HETFIELD
Rhythm guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter for Metallica
James Hetfield was born on August 3, 1963 in Los Angeles, California. His Parents were Christian Scientists. James was a quiet kid who was into sports. His older step-brother played the drums in a local band. This influenced James to turn to rock music. James and his family moved to LaBrea, California. He started playing guitar there. When he was in high school he played in a band called Obsession. Obsession played mostly Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin music. He soon met Ron McGovney who became Metallica's first bass player. Soon after, James met Lars through a newspaper called the "Recycler". Thus, Metallica was formed. James began just playing the guitar, and the three were looking for a singer. Since no frontman could be found, James decided he would both sing and play rhythm guitar for the band. Some of James' other musical influences included Iron Maiden, Diamond Head, and Motorhead along with Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin. Although he is shy, at concerts he is totally wild.
