Phil Soussan ex-Ozzy bass player talks about Metallica opening for OZZY in 1986

During a recent interview by Thomas S. Orwat, Jr. with Phil Soussan, the former Ozzy bass player reflected on Metallica’s iconic 1986 tour with Ozzy Osbourne. In 1986, the heavy metal world experienced a seismic shift when Metallica, then on the brink of becoming a global phenomenon, opened for Ozzy during his “Ultimate Sin” tour. Soussan shared his reflections on this memorable period, shedding light on the camaraderie, the tragedy, and the historic impact of that tour.

Soussan described Metallica as a “fantastic” band that was “really breaking big in America.” Despite their rapid rise, Metallica had already established a considerable following and generated significant buzz in the metal community. Soussan noted their frequent appearances on the covers of Kerrang! magazine and how they had become a staple in the metal scene. What set Metallica apart, according to Soussan, was their unique sound. There was no one else doing what they were doing, making them a distinct presence in the metal world. This uniqueness resonated with fans and critics alike, propelling them to new heights.

The “Ultimate Sin” tour provided Metallica with a significant platform to present their music to a broader audience across the United States. Soussan reflected on how the band’s die-hard fans were evident at every show, often creating a noticeable shift in the audience demographics once they left the stage and Ozzy’s fans took over. This dynamic highlighted the diverse appeal of the tour and the contrasting yet complementary styles of the two acts.

Unfortunately, the tour was also marked by tragedy. During a break in the tour, Metallica decided to perform some shows in Scandinavia, a decision that led to the untimely death of their bassist, Cliff Burton, in a bus accident. Soussan recounted the immense sadness that followed this event, describing it as a “tremendously sad” and “awful” loss. The tragedy underscored the unpredictable nature of life and the way seemingly unrelated events can have profound consequences.

Soussan shared his personal memories of Cliff Burton, describing him as a quiet yet “cool” individual. The two bassists spent a significant amount of time together, often chatting outside venues. Soussan reminisced about Burton’s distinctive style, including his flared jeans, which made him stand out. He also mentioned the camaraderie between the bands, with Soussan and Randy Castillo (Ozzy’s drummer) occasionally traveling on Metallica’s bus, enjoying the youthful energy and fun that characterized those moments.

In reflecting on the tour, Soussan’s insights provide a glimpse into the intersection of talent, tragedy, and the vibrant energy that defined a pivotal moment in metal history. The 1986 tour not only showcased Metallica’s rise but also highlighted the deep connections and shared experiences within the metal community.