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Why did Jason Newsted leave Metallica?

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Metallica, renowned for their tumultuous nature among bands, has gained worldwide acclaim despite, or perhaps because of, the internal strife they’ve faced throughout their career. However, it’s worth noting that Jason Newsted stands out as an unusual exception to this pattern.

Jason Newsted served as Metallica’s bassist from 1986 to 2001, participating in the band’s successful commercial and critical phase. His contributions can be heard on many of their renowned recordings. In 2001, he decided to part ways with the band, but has maintained a cordial relationship with his ex-bandmates ever since. Remarkably, this amicable situation largely resulted from differences in workload demands.

In 2000, Jason Newsted requested a year off, but Metallica opted to press on with recording another studio album instead. Feeling drained, he didn’t want to return to work immediately. Eventually, he chose to leave the band, explaining his departure through “personal and private reasons.

Jason Newsted quit Metallica in 2001

Metallica’s history includes a well-known instance of a former member harboring resentment following an exit, which is Dave Mustaine from Megadeth. It appears that Mustaine still holds a grudge about the circumstances that resulted in his dismissal from the band back in 1983. In contrast, Newsted seems content with his choice to leave the band.

In a conversation with Rolling Stone in 2009, he expressed that he had no regrets about departing from Metallica. He emphasized that it was the appropriate decision for everyone involved and for the band’s welfare. To clarify, he has never hinted at desiring to return to the group—not even once.

In a change of events, Robert Trujillo took over as the bassist, but Lars Ulrich, Metallica’s drummer, acknowledged that they had underestimated Newsted during his time with the band. He even stated that Newsted’s departure left a significant impact or “dent” on the group.

Is Jason Newsted still friends with Metallica?

I feel a bit sad, you know, because Jason is a great guy and he poured countless hours into our band for years. Looking back, I guess he never truly found the acceptance we all craved within the group. Then, when he sought to explore his creativity elsewhere, he was met with harsh words instead of encouragement. It’s just not fair.

Regardless of their separation, Jason Newsted continues to maintain a cordial relationship with Ulrich and guitarist Kirk Hammett. His displeasure was directed solely towards James Hetfield, Metallica’s singer, who he alleged discouraged him from advancing Echobrain during his last years in the band. However, it appears that past issues have been put aside.

In 2009, during Metallica’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Newsted reconnected with the band and performed together at a series of concerts to celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2010. Currently, the bassist is leading the group known as Newsted.

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2025-04-07 23:00

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