Robert Trujillo, an American musician and songwriter, has built an impressive career in heavy metal music, amassing an estimated net worth of $40 million. Best known as the powerhouse bassist of Metallica, Trujillo’s journey from a young Californian musician to one of the most respected figures in rock and metal has been marked by skill, versatility, and creative innovation. Over the decades, he has worked with legendary acts such as Suicidal Tendencies, Infectious Grooves, Ozzy Osbourne, and Black Label Society, cementing his place in music history.

Born Roberto Agustín Miguel Santiago Samuel Trujillo on October 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, he grew up in Culver City. Trujillo, who is of Native American and Mexican descent, developed a passion for music early in life. His early influences included jazz, funk, and rock, and at just 19, he enrolled in jazz school with dreams of becoming a studio musician. However, his love for heavy metal and rock soon took center stage, guiding him toward a different path — one that would eventually make him a global star.

Trujillo first gained major attention in 1989 when he replaced Bob Heathcote as the bassist for the California hardcore punk band Suicidal Tendencies. His unique energy and powerful bass lines transformed the group’s sound, helping them evolve into one of the most influential crossover thrash bands of their era. During his tenure, he appeared on several albums including Controlled by Hatred/Feel Like Shit…Déjà Vu, Lights…Camera…Revolution!, and The Art of Rebellion. His tenure with the band lasted until 1995, leaving behind a legacy of technical excellence and raw musical energy.

While still performing with Suicidal Tendencies, Trujillo co-founded Infectious Grooves, a funk metal supergroup led by frontman Mike Muir. The band’s music was characterized by humor, creativity, and an unmistakable groove. Their debut album, The Plague That Makes Your Booty Move… It’s the Infectious Grooves (1991), showcased Trujillo’s remarkable versatility and ability to blend funk and metal seamlessly. Over the years, Infectious Grooves released several albums including Sarsippius’ Ark and Groove Family Cyco, further broadening Trujillo’s reputation as one of the most adaptive bassists in the business.

A turning point in Trujillo’s career came in 2003 when he joined Metallica, one of the most successful heavy metal bands in history, replacing Jason Newsted. His entry was a monumental moment — he received a $1 million advance upon joining, reflecting the band’s immense confidence in his talent. His first major recording with Metallica was the critically acclaimed Death Magnetic (2008), which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and earned multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Metal Performance for “My Apocalypse.” Trujillo’s second major record with the band, Hardwired… to Self-Destruct (2016), continued the group’s streak of chart-topping success, earning a nomination for Best Rock Album at the Grammys. His thunderous bass performances and stage charisma have since become an essential part of Metallica’s sound and live shows.

Beyond Metallica, Trujillo’s musical footprint spans several high-profile collaborations. He was part of Ozzy Osbourne’s band in the late 1990s, co-writing songs for Down to Earth (2001) and contributing to the reissues of Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman. He also performed with Black Label Society, contributing to 1919 Eternal (2002), and worked with Alice in Chains’ Jerry Cantrell on Degradation Trip. Additionally, Trujillo co-founded the experimental supergroup Mass Mental, which achieved cult success in Japan.

In addition to his music, Trujillo has appeared in films and television. His early acting roles include appearances in House Calls (1978) and Scout’s Honor (1980), as well as a cameo in CHiPs (1982). He and his Infectious Grooves bandmates also made a memorable appearance in the comedy film Encino Man (1992).

Trujillo’s playing style is marked by its complexity, rhythm, and intensity. He often uses fingerstyle playing, slap techniques, and chord-based harmonics, giving his basslines both depth and texture. Over the years, he has played a range of instruments including Warwick Streamer bass guitars, Fender Precision and Jazz Basses, and Rickenbacker models. In 2010, he collaborated with Dunlop Manufacturing to release his own signature bass strings, showcasing his deep understanding of tone and performance.

Robert Trujillo is married to Chloé Trujillo, and together they have two children — Tye and Lullah. Their son, Tye, has followed in his father’s footsteps as a talented bassist, performing with Korn and forming his own band, Suspect208.

In December 2007, Trujillo purchased a home in Topanga, California, for $1.8 million. Known for his laid-back personality, he balances his rockstar life with a strong focus on family, health, and creative pursuits.

Robert Trujillo net worth is $40 million.