Former Members

Ron McGovney (born November 2, 1963 in Los Angeles, California) is an American musician most notable for being the original bassist in the heavy metal band Metallica.

Musical career

Leather Charm and Metallica

In June 1981, McGovney and childhood friend and roommate James Hetfield formed the band Leather Charm with guitarist Hugh Tanner of Hetfield's previous band, Phantom Lord. Tanner left Leather Charm to pursue music management and was replaced by guitarist Troy James and drummer Jim Mulligan, but Mulligan's subsequent departure led to the band's demise. In late 1981, Hetfield began a new collaboration with drummer Lars Ulrich soon christened Metallica. With the addition of McGovney and guitarist Dave Mustaine early the next year, the first gigging lineup of the band was complete.

McGovney's time with Metallica was reportedly not enjoyable, as he often clashed with Ulrich and Mustaine. McGovney was reportedly bullied by Mustaine, who in one instance poured beer on his bass, resulting in an electric shock which allegedly caused him to fly across the room. McGovney felt his role was that of monetary and transportation provider, rather than a respected member of the band. He ultimately quit on December 12, 1982^[5] due to these growing tensions. He was replaced by Cliff Burton.

Despite personal conflicts, McGovney's time with Metallica was productive and important in the early stages of the highly successful band. He recorded several demos with Metallica, including one from his own garage, Power Metal, and most notably the live No Life 'Til Leather. A recording of "Hit The Lights" with McGovney playing bass eventually went on the Metal Massacre Vol. 1 album. After leaving Metallica, McGovney became disillusioned with playing music and sold most of his equipment.

Phantasm

In 1986, McGovney was persuaded to return to performing by Hirax vocalist Katon W. De Pena, and the two formed the thrash metal band Phantasm with Death drummer Gene Hoglan, guitarist Rodney Nicholson, and several other musicians. Phantasm released a demo but never recorded a proper album, and disbanded in 1988 due to disagreements between members. In 2001, thrash label Deep Six Records released the Wreckage CD, packaging a remastered version of the band's demo of the same name with a live set from 1987.

Personal life

McGovney is of Scottish descent. He has two sons, Justin and Tyler, and a daughter, Jordann. He currently resides in North Carolina.