METALLICA’s Robert Trujillo Recalls Being ‘Insulted’ by James Hetfield: ‘I Blew a Fuse for a Second’

On the latest episode of “The Ex-Man With Doc Coyle” podcast, Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo opened up about a tense moment with bandmate James Hetfield. Hosted by BAD WOLVES and GOD FORBID guitarist Doc Coyle, the podcast explores the challenges and transitions faced by professionals in the music industry.

Trujillo emphasized the importance of maintaining good relationships with bandmates, sharing his philosophy: “Never get caught up in the idea that you’re in your band and you’re safe and nothing can touch you. Anybody can be replaced. Always try to be as respectful as possible because you’re going to have your ups and downs and you’re going to bump heads.”

Reflecting on a specific incident, Trujillo recounted, “There have been moments when things get heated, even in Metallica. A few years ago in Italy, James was having a rough day—he got stung by a bee and was dealing with pоisоn oak. We were preparing to go on stage, and I was overwhelmed with various responsibilities, including last-minute additions to our set. During rehearsal, James questioned if I knew the song ‘Memory Remаins,’ a song we’ve played countless times. I was insulted and blew a fuse for a second. But we both realized we were just stressed about different things. Instead of letting it escalate, we calmed down and worked it out.”

Trujillo continued, “Such moments are part of being in a band. Maintaining composure and focusing on being the best human, brother, and comrade is crucial.”

Born on October 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, Trujillo achieved success with punk-funk pioneers Suicidаl Tendencies and Ozzy Osbourne’s band before joining Metallica in 2003, a process documented in “Some Kind of Monster.”

Metallica’s former bassist Cliff Burton tragically died in a 1986 bus crаsh. Trujillo, however, feels no pressure in filling the role, telling Exclaim! in 2016, “Whether it’s Jason, myself, or Cliff, we’re all different players delivering what’s best for the band.”

James Hetfield praised Trujillo in a 2017 interview with 94.5 The Buzz, saying, “Robert fits in perfectly. He’s experienced, dedicated, and has a great personality. It just jelled, and it’s still jelling.”

Trujillo’s insights underscore the importance of resilience and mutual respect in maintaining band harmony amidst inevitable tensions.