Bassist C.J. Ramone Had Two Chances to Join Metallica

Ramones songs don't require much from a bassist, but C.J. Ramone, who played with the long-running New York City punk band in its later years, from 1989 through 1996, must have some secret chops.

In a new interview, the musician born Christopher Ward has revealed that metal gods Metallica twice offered him a spot in the group after Jason Newsted's departure in 2001.

Ward landed an audition thanks to guitarist Johnny Ramone, who was friends with Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett and suggested they give him a try. Unfortunately, Ward's son had just been diagnosed with autism, and long stints on the road were out of the question.

"The doctor just told me that my son needed to wake up in the same place every day and that anything other than that could be a detriment," Ward said. "I was honoured that they asked me but there was just no way I could do it."

Instead, the gig went to Robert Trujilo of Suicidal Tendencies, and while Ward missed his chance to claim membership in two Rock and Roll Hall of Fame bands, he says he has "no regrets" about putting family first.

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