Though he admits that he was joining “the coolest band on the planet,” Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo’s entrance into the band was about as intimidating as could be. “It was intense. I had to learn the catalog of music, 22 years of music. And I had to learn the St. Anger album,” explains Trujillo. “‘We’ve never played this material as a band, but you’ve gotta learn it. And your first gig is going to be at San Quentin State Penitentiary.’” Click below for more from Trujillo, including what songs he played at his Metallica audition and which member of the band was his champion.

• Q&A: Metallica’s Robert Trujillo

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