Clifford Lee Burton was an American bassist and influential figure in thrash metal who played for Metallica from 1982 until his death in 1986. Burton attended Chabot Community College in Hayward, California, where he formed the band Agents of Misfortune with his friend Jim Martin. The band competed in the Hayward Area Recreation Department's "Battle of the Bands" in 1981. Burton is known for his musicianship and influence.