Metallica Bassist Reveals Studio Switch: Burton Took Guitar Solo for Orion Track

Robert Trujillo shares how Cliff Burton recorded the iconic bass solo on "Orion" instead of Kirk Hammett.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 9:47am

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In a recent interview, Metallica's current bassist Robert Trujillo revealed that the iconic bass solo on the band's 1986 instrumental track "Orion" was originally meant for guitarist Kirk Hammett. However, Trujillo shared that Cliff Burton, the band's late bassist who passed away in 1986, ended up recording the solo instead while Hammett was away from the studio.

Why it matters

This story provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the recording of one of Metallica's most beloved and influential songs, shedding light on the creative dynamic within the band during the Master of Puppets era. It also serves as a touching tribute to Burton's immense talent and impact on the group's music.

The details

According to Trujillo, Hammett was supposed to play the guitar solo on "Orion," but when he stepped out of the studio, Burton seized the opportunity and recorded the iconic bass part instead. Trujillo said Hammett was surprised to return and find Burton had taken his solo. "Not that Kirk doesn't get enough solos, but Cliff took his solo, which I think is just so cool," Trujillo remarked.

  • Master of Puppets was released in 1986.
  • Cliff Burton died on September 27, 1986, in a tour bus crash.

The players

Robert Trujillo

Metallica's current bassist who shared the story about the recording of "Orion".

Cliff Burton

Metallica's late bassist who recorded the iconic bass solo on "Orion" instead of Kirk Hammett's intended guitar part.

Kirk Hammett

Metallica's guitarist who was originally supposed to play the solo on "Orion" before Cliff Burton recorded it.

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What they’re saying

“He was originally supposed to play the solo there, Kirk was. And he was away from the studio, came back the next day, and Cliff had laid the track. He played the solo there, and there was no solo for Kirk.”

— Robert Trujillo, Metallica Bassist

“Not that Kirk doesn't get enough solos, but Cliff took his solo, which I think is just so cool.”

— Robert Trujillo, Metallica Bassist

“This is a song that automatically brings us together and it has to do with the emotion and the personality of the song. It's so infectious that you have to be together and you also have to be together with the fans.”

— Robert Trujillo, Metallica Bassist

“Is it the spirit of Cliff? Absolutely. The song is probably the closest thing to the spirit of Cliff, and that's why you need to be together.”

— Robert Trujillo, Metallica Bassist

What’s next

The M72 world tour resumes in May when Metallica hits Athens. This tour has stretched across three years now. Late June brings the band back to the United Kingdom. Glasgow's Hampden Park hosts them on June 25, followed by Cardiff's Principality Stadium on June 28, then two London Stadium shows on July 3 and 5.

The takeaway

This story highlights the creative dynamic and camaraderie within Metallica, particularly the special bond between the band's late bassist Cliff Burton and the iconic instrumental track "Orion." It serves as a poignant reminder of Burton's immense talent and enduring influence on the group's music.