METALLICA – Robert Trujillo: “The Fans Get Upset…”

“When I joined the band [in 2003], that was the first thing I noticed. And I was always the person that was hiding from the cameras and not comfortable with that.

“The world of Metallica, it’s fairly transparent, and people do see a lot more than with other bands. I think that’s good for Metallica – to be able to open those doors and have people feel comfortable with us is a very cool thing.”

The bassist added: “But sometimes, I feel people get so comfortable with us that they think they can dictate what we’re supposed to do.

“I made a documentary about Jaco Pastorius [in 2014, titled ‘Jaco’], who was my favorite bass player growing up. It took me six years, every single day, it was the most difficult creative thing I ever did in my life – I’m very proud of it.

“But I remember at one point there was some connection with Metallica fans. Some people were very supportive, but I was surprised by how many people were unsupportive. They were almost upset. ‘How dare he do this film about whatever?!’ It didn’t matter who it was about, they were just upset.

“The bottom line is – we’re all individuals, we’re a part of a band and a family and we support each other, whether it’s family or whatever.

“If James is designing custom cars, I support him; I’m like, ‘Yeah!’ I check out what he’s doing, I’m fascinated, he’s great at it. When Kirk’s involved with his horror collection and festival, which is really cool, we support each other.

“But sometimes, it’s true, the fans get upset. They were mad we made an album with Lou Reed [2011’s ‘Lulu’]. At the end of the day, it’s creative freedom, it’s important to us. Metallica’s important to us, but at the same time, we have our lives and we have to let that energy and passion out. Passion’s important.

“Sometimes it gets a little intense, but you gotta live your life.”

As for Lady Gaga’s recent involvement with Metallica, Robert went on the record prior to the Grammys mishap, after the band had already done a first rehearsal with her, saying to ABC News: “Somebody that can actually sing, like Lady Gaga… It was pretty seamless.”



Word started to circulate in late February that the band has reportedly now invited Lady Gaga to join the band as the 5th member. Whether as an honorary or permanent member that could possibly bring her into the studio with the legendary thrash act, who knows at this point, but the idea is that she would be handling a co-lead singing role. No official word yet from Lars and the boys if this is indeed really going to happen. Maybe she turned down the offer. Maybe they are practicing together right now as these words are being typed. Maybe this talk is all one big joke. Much like the ‘mic fail’ performance. Maybe it’s all just a silly publicity stunt and nothing will truly happen with it at all. Only time will tell.

Are fans ready to get the shock of their life if Gaga indeed joins the band out on their upcoming U.S. tour in May for a special appearance, perhaps maybe giving “Moth Into Flame” another try? Judging from all the angry comments of disdain around the web, it might not be such a good idea for her to show up at all. Forget ‘upset’, is Robert and Metallica ready for how pissed off their loyal fans could become if they do actually work with Gaga again as Lars has so proudly told the press?

https://metallica.com/