James Hetfield And Robert Trujillo Reveal Jobs They Would Do Without Metallica

What would the members of the world’s biggest heavy metal band be doing if Metallica had never formed? Frontman James Hetfield and bassist Robert Trujillo recently answered that question on an episode of the band’s official podcast, The Metallica Report, and both surprisingly pointed to alternate careers in the skilled trades.

While both musicians affirmed that their lives would likely still revolve around music in some capacity, they each revealed a passion for hands-on, practical work outside of the industry.

Robert Trujillo, who joined the band in 2003, said his first instinct would be to remain a songwriter. “I would probably continue to play music,” he confessed. “I love songwriting… so maybe something with songwriting, I’d become an independent songwriter and get into production.”

However, reflecting on his life before rock stardom, he pointed to a different path. “The other thing that I actually originally started to do … my first job was in construction. I always thought that maybe I would become a contractor,” Trujillo revealed. “My skills as an organizer and coordinator could help… I did drywall and hardwood floors for a long time.” He added that this early experience has proven valuable. “Learning that stuff was great, cause now if I see a fixer upper property or a house, I’m not afraid of it. I can see the potential of it… So I could be a contractor, something in the trades, a tradesman of sorts.”

Similarly, James Hetfield’s first thought was that he would still be trying to make his musical dream a reality. “I’d be trying to form Metallica … still. I’d probably be still looking for a Lars out there,” the frontman joked. “Or I’d probably be really involved in bands. I’d be roadie-ing or working in a studio and helping make music somehow.”

But like his bandmate, Hetfield also has a passion for craftsmanship. “Graphic design I love. I love graphics, I love artwork and I also love doing trade stuff,” he shared. “Tradesmanship with wood, metal, building stuff. That would have turned into something too.” This interest aligns with the band’s charitable work through their All Within My Hands foundation, which funds scholarships for students pursuing careers in the trades.

Despite their other interests, both musicians made it clear that music is their ultimate calling. For Hetfield, the choice is undeniable. “Music is the gift I’ve been given,” he concluded. “So I’d still be trying to kick some doors down and get into it somehow.”