Robert Trujillo, renowned as one of the most exceptional metal bassists, is not only celebrated for his prowess in metal but also for his diverse musical taste that originates from a deep-rooted love for funk. During a recent appearance on The Metallica Podcast, Trujillo delved into his musical origins, sharing his five favorite funk grooves from the late ’60s and ’70s that influenced his formative years.

Introducing the segment, Trujillo emphasized his passion for the bass, describing it as having an energy that can control body movements, making it “sexy.” He then proceeded to unveil his list of funk classics that left a lasting impact on him.

Kool & the Gang – “Jungle Boogie”

Trujillo expressed his immense love for the Kool & the Gang song “Jungle Boogie,” citing it as a disco era classic with a bassline that ranks among the best ever. He highlighted its infectious groove, especially when performed by Metallica in their Wedding Band, showcasing the undeniable power of the bass in controlling body movements.

Slave – “Slide”

The bassist praised the simplicity yet strong prominence of the bass line in the song “Slide” by the band Slave. Trujillo acknowledged the late Mark Adams, the bass player for Slave, and highlighted the infectious quality of the groove, describing it as an “infection” for the listener.

Tower of Power – “What Is Hip?”

Trujillo selected “What Is Hip?” by Tower of Power, pointing out the distinctive style of bassist Rocco Prestia, who had a Jaco Pastorius vibe with tight 16th note funk grooves. He appreciated the East Bay’s contribution to funk rock, producing bands like Sly and the Family Stone, and the impact the song had on his childhood.

The Isley Brothers – “Climbin’ Up the Ladder”

“Climbin’ Up the Ladder” by The Isley Brothers held sentimental value for Trujillo, as it was the first concert he ever attended. Recalling the concert with Wild Cherry, Trujillo revealed it was the moment that inspired him to pursue a career in music.

Sly & the Family Stone – “Sing a Simple Song”

Trujillo concluded his list with “Sing a Simple Song” by Sly & the Family Stone, another East Bay band known for their impactful riffs. He drew a connection between the riffs in funk and Metallica’s music, emphasizing the significance of bass lines and riffs in heavy metal.

In sharing his favorite funk grooves, Robert Trujillo provided a glimpse into the diverse musical influences that have shaped his extraordinary career.