14/01/1984
Boston MA: Band's equipment stolen; James inspired to write "Fade to Black"

20/01/1984
Jump in the Fire 12" EP released in Europe on Music For Nations label

20/02/1984
Copenhagen, Denmark; Metallica begins recording Ride The Lightning at Sweet Silence
Studios

14/03/1984
Ride The Lightning finished

30/07/1984
Megaforce releases Ride The Lightning

12/09/1984
Metallica signs with Elektra

19/11/1984
Elektra re-releases Ride The Lightning