The one time Geddy Lee of Rush saw Cliff Burton play

The one time Geddy Lee of Rush saw Cliff Burton play

Toronto, January 19th, 1985

Cold and windy, that’s how is was described on that day in January of 1985 as a few hundred diehard fans stood in line to see this show.

First on the bill was Armored Saint, there in support of their debut album “March of the Saint”

Secondly, it would be Metallica’s turn. With the opening song “Fight Fire With Fire” until the very last one “Motorbreath” it was a constant barrage of fists in the air, fans banging their heads and screaming along to the lyrics.

After the band played they got a message that Geddy Lee was in the audience. And Cliff Burton just freaked out. He started pacing, he started smoking pot, and he was, like, ‘Oh my God! Geddy! Geddy Lee!’ He could not settle down; he was so nervous and just happy at the same time that Geddy Lee was there.

Finally it was W.A.S.P.‘s turn to unleash their fury. Blackie and the boys didn’t disappoint as they played all their popular songs including “I Wanna Be Somebody” and “L.O.V.E. Machine”.

Forgive me if I’m wrong but I believe that W.A.S.P. and Metallica headlined on alternate nights on this tour. What a time to be a headbanger!! Imagine seeing these three band’s for $15 Canadian dollars!!

And the rest is Heavy Metal history!!!

Metallica Set List

  • “Fight Fire With Fire”
  • “Ride the Lightning”
  • “Phantom Lord”
  • “(Anethesia) Pulling Teeth”
  • “For Whom the Bell Tolls”
  • “No Remorse”
  • “The Call of Ktulu”
  • “Seek & Destroy”
  • “Whiplash”

Encores:

  • “Creeping Death”
  • Guitar solo
  • “Am I Evil?”
  • “Motorbreath”

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