re: What would Metallica be like if Cliff Burton had never died?

The Black Album would not exist, nor would have any of the other wretched crap they've put out in the years since he died. He'd have never put his name on that bullshite.

Their songwriting would not have taken an complete nosedive.

They would have still been insanely popular, but they would not have lost all credibility like they have.

Lars and James would not be able to lie and act like they were the only ones that really mattered as far the music goes. Cliff was the main force behind their sound, contrary to what they've said in the years since he died.