 Metallica was formed in 1981 in Los Angeles by drummer Lars Ulrich and vocalist James Hetfield . Before settling on a definitive lineup , Metal Blade Records owner Brian Slagel asked Metallica to record a song for the first edition of his Metal Massacre compilation . Hetfield and Ulrich chose " Hit the Lights " from Hetfield 's previous band Leather Charm , and recorded it with Hetfield 's childhood friend Ron McGovney on bass , and temporary guitarist Lloyd Grant . The band 's first lineup featured Hetfield , Ulrich , McGovney , and guitarist Dave Mustaine , who was acquired through a newspaper advertisement . The band practiced in McGovney 's garage and inquired to play gigs at local clubs . Metallica 's first show was on March 14 , 1982 , at the Radio City in Anaheim . The nine @-@ song setlist consisted of two originals ( " Hit the Lights " and an unfinished version of " Jump in the Fire " from Mustaine 's earlier band Panic ) and covers of new wave of British heavy metal ( NWOBHM ) bands such as Diamond Head , Blitzkrieg , Savage , and Sweet Savage . The gig was notorious because Mustaine had problems with the guitar distortion pedal and broke a string during a song . Metallica 's second gig was March 27 at Hollywood 's Whisky a Go Go , opening for Saxon . Although Mötley Crüe was originally scheduled to open the show , the group canceled because of its growing popularity . Metallica recorded a three @-@ song demo to persuade the venue 's management to allow the band to open for Saxon . Metallica 's third concert was in April , at which was premiered " The Mechanix " , written by Mustaine during his tenure with Panic . Mustaine interacted with the fans at Metallica 's earliest shows because Hetfield was shy . 
