Former Metallica bassist Ron McGovney recently shared his experience attending one of the band’s concerts during the Cliff Burton era, revealing he was denied backstage access despite being a former member. McGovney made this revelation in response to a fan’s video from Metallica’s ‘MTV’s Day On The Green’ concert at Oakland Stadium, as reported on X (formerly Twitter).
McGovney’s comment addressed his experience as an audience member at the show, despite his history with the band.
“I was there. In the crowd,” McGovney wrote. “I wasn’t allowed backstage.”
The statement highlights the apparent tensions that existed between McGovney and Metallica following his departure from the band before Cliff Burton joined as bassist.
McGovney’s exclusion from backstage access reflects the complicated history between him and his former bandmates. Wikipedia reported that McGovney left Metallica in late 1982 due to growing tensions, including clashes with other band members like Lars Ulrich and Dave Mustaine. He was ultimately replaced by Burton, whom McGovney admired as a much better fit for the band.
McGovney played a significant role in Metallica’s early development despite his brief tenure with the group. 933 ODC noted that he contributed to early demos such as No Life ’til Leather and was involved in the band’s initial rehearsals and local shows. He even created the band’s early business cards featuring the iconic Metallica logo designed by James Hetfield.
The bassist’s departure from Metallica marked the end of his professional music career. Riff Life documented that after leaving the band, McGovney did not pursue a professional music career. He focused instead on his work as a mechanic.
McGovney has spoken positively about Burton’s talents in previous interviews. However, the backstage denial at the Oakland Stadium concert suggests that old tensions may have lingered despite years passing since his departure from the band.
