On November 30th, 2000, the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, witnessed a moment that would forever mark the end of an era in Metallica’s history. It was on this night that Jason Newsted, the band’s bassist for over a decade, took the stage for his final performance as a full member of the legendary heavy metal group.
The occasion was the VH1 Music Awards 2000, an event that brought together a lineup of diverse acts including No Doubt, Red Hot Chili Peppers, U2, and many more. Metallica, known for their explosive live performances and genre-defining music, was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the night.
For fans and band members alike, this performance held a bittersweet significance. After joining Metallica in 1986 as the replacement for the late Cliff Burton, Newsted had become an integral part of the band’s sound and identity. He contributed to several iconic albums, including “…And Justice for All” and the self-titled “Metallica” (commonly referred to as “The Black Album”).
However, tensions within the band had been mounting for some time, and Newsted’s departure had been looming on the horizon. The VH1 Music Awards marked the end of an era as Newsted bid farewell to the Metallica family, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented and respected bassists in the metal genre.
Though Newsted’s final performance with Metallica was relatively brief, the impact was undeniable. The Shrine Auditorium reverberated with the energy of the band’s raw power as they played their classic hit, “Enter Sandman.” Fans in attendance and millions watching at home witnessed the end of a chapter in Metallica’s history.
Following his departure from Metallica, Newsted embarked on various musical projects, including forming his own band, Echobrain, and later joining Voivod. Despite his exit from the band, Newsted’s contributions to Metallica’s discography and live performances remain an indelible part of their legacy.
In the final performance at the VH1 Music Awards 2000, we remember Jason Newsted’s skillful bass playing, his energetic stage presence, and the significant impact he made during his time with Metallica. While the band would go on to welcome Robert Trujillo as their new bassist, Newsted’s departure marked the end of an era and left a void that would never be fully filled.
The VH1 Music Awards 2000 performance stands as a poignant moment in Metallica’s history, paying tribute to Jason Newsted’s contributions and serving as a reminder of the enduring power and influence of one of the greatest heavy metal bands of all time.