Jason Newsted recalls Cliff Burton’s influence and talent

Former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted has paid tribute to Cliff Burton, recalling how the late Metallica musician’s playing left him both intimidated and motivated to improve. Newsted’s remarks, shared in an interview around the 40th anniversary of Burton’s death, reflect on Burton’s ability as a bassist and the impression he made on fellow musicians. Newsted said Burton could play at a high level moments after waking, while Newsted needed hours of practice to reach a comparable level. He also described seeing Burton perform in 1985, more than a year before Burton died. The experience initially made Newsted question whether he could measure up, he recalled, but ultimately encouraged him to work harder. He said Burton’s musicianship was intimidating even as it inspired him. Newsted also praised Burton’s early development, saying he was already an accomplished player as a teenager. He compared Burton’s precocious ability with that of Les Claypool, the Primus bassist, saying both had reached a high level before adulthood. The remarks were Newsted’s recollections from an interview, rather than independent assessments of the musicians’ abilities.