We were stunned to learn that Megaforce Records co-founder Marsha Zazula has passed away at 68 years old. Tributes have began pouring in, and one band that clearly would've never made it if not for Marsha was Metallica. James Hetfield recently released a very touching tribute.
The Metallica frontman wrote "Marsha Z is the Metal Matriarch of the East Coast. She was our mother when I had none. She made great sacrifices for Metallica to grow. Thank you, Marsha. Love and positive energy to the Zazula family."
James' mother, Cynthia, died when he was in the 11th grade from cancer. Due to her religious beliefs, she chose to forgo any sort of treatment for the cancer.
Earlier this weekend, Lars Ulrich posted a similarly touching tribute on his Instagram, writing "Thank you Marsha for making it happen… For supporting us, for encouraging us, for advising us, for sheltering us, for feeding us, and most importantly for cheering us on and along with your husband Jonny, believing in the possibilities of how a gang of misfits and outsiders like ourselves could connect with a larger and likeminded audience…"
Anthrax wrote this weekend "It's with much sadness that we hear of the passing of Marsha Zazula. A true pioneer along with Jonny Z. Those two were responsible for changing all our lives. Hard to put into words what a world this might be without their belief and dedication to metal and all of us. Our love to her family."
