Rоb Trujillo Reflects on Metallica’s Live Shows: ‘At That Moment, We’re Really Nervous’

Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo opened up about the intense moments that come with performing live, revealing that even seasoned musicians like himself can still feel the jitters on stage.

Despite his extensive experience and skill as a bassist, Trujillo admitted to experiencing stage frigҺt, emphasizing that it’s a testament to the band’s dedication to delivering exceptional performances.

One of the factors that adds to the excitement and challenge of Metallica’s live shows is their ever-changing setlist. Trujillo explained in a recent interview that the band takes pride in keeping their performances fresh and energetic, ensuring that both the audience and the band members themselves stay engaged.

Trujillo also discussed the nerve-wracking moments during the “doodles” he performs with guitarist Kirk Hammett while drummer Lars Ulrich and vocalist James Hetfield take a break. These improvised segments, featuring new original pieces or covers, can be particularly daunting for Trujillo, as he and Hammett are left to showcase their musical prowess in a stripped-down setting.

Additionally, Trujillo highlighted the challenge of paying tribute to local artists during performances in different countries. While it’s an exciting way to engage with the audience, it also adds pressure to perform well, especially when covering songs in the native language of the country they’re performing in.

Despite the nerves and challenges, Trujillo expressed pride in Metallica’s ability to push boundaries and keep their performances dynamic and engaging. He acknowledged that even he and Hammett feel the pressure when they take the stage, but their willingness to take risks contributes to the band’s electrifying live performances.