“My role is always to support” Robert Trujillo on why he doesn’t get involved in writing songs in Metallica
Longtime Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo has opened up about his role within the band and the reason he prefers to take a backseat during songwriting sessions.
As the longest-serving bassist of one of the biggest metal bands in the world, Trujillo is no stranger to the concept of teamwork — both on stage and in the creative process. In a new interview with Toby Morse, the musician shares how trust and respect are key to longevity in a group like Metallica, and the way he goes about supporting his bandmates’ artistic vision over the years.
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“Even with Ozzy, I was getting into some serious writing before I left. That’s always been important to me,” says Trujillo [via Ultimate Guitar]. “But at the same time, I’m joining Metallica, and these guys write amazing songs, and I’m just not going to suddenly insert myself into [it].”
“I like to keep people happy and comfortable. My role is always to support what’s needed for the team. I’m writing a song with the guys, I’m contributing that way.”
He adds that contributions do not necessarily come by way of song credits, explaining: “I mean, we’re always contributing, whether you see the name on the song or not, I’m in the room every time we’re working on music,” I’m there, with Lars [Ulrich] and James [Hetfield].”
“There are times when I’m like, ‘I’ve got some cool ideas,’ and James is always receptive. If you listen to the middle section of You Must Burn on the new record [72 Seasons]. That’s James and I jamming in the tuning room, and then it becomes a part of this particular song.”
As Trujillo explains, the most important thing is making sure “the river flows the right way”.
“[Also] how you cater to the personalities — it’s like, you’re going to live with these people; it’s like a family. It’s a brotherhood,” says the musician. “You gotta respect that, and respect people. And when you’re in each other’s space, you gotta respect each other. You gotta help lift people, and all that kind of stuff plays into it.”
“There’s a million incredible players. Yeah, [there are] guys who have a certain feel that are better for the band, and whatnot. But at the same time, there’s still that bond, and that trust, and connection you have to have with each other so that you’re helping each other through life. It’s like a life thing.”
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Source: www.guitar-bass.net
