Robbie Merrill | |
|---|---|
 Merrill performing with Godsmack in 2019 | |
| Background information | |
| Born | June 13, 1963 Lawrence, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Genres | |
| Instrument | Bass |
| Years active | 1986–present |
| Member of | Godsmack |
| Formerly of | Another Animal |
| Website | godsmack |
Robbie Merrill (born June 13, 1963) [1] is an American bassist, best known as a founding member of the rock bands Godsmack [2] [3] and Another Animal. [4] He was featured in the Behind the Player interactive music video. [5]
Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Merrill started playing bass at age fourteen, having traded in his train set for the instrument. [6] He was inspired to pick up the bass by watching his father, a guitarist, and his uncle, a bassist. He began playing entirely by ear, gradually gaining musical versatility by performing in a variety of genres, including country, 1950s and 1960s cover bands, and wedding bands. This broad experience laid the foundation for his adaptive playing style. His first bass was a Fender Precision, which he used to record the early Godsmack demos that would form the basis of the band's debut album. [7] Before joining Godsmack, Merrill worked as a self-employed carpenter, a trade likewise pursued by Tony Rombola. [8]
Merrill lives in Florida, with his three daughters. Although he is right-handed, Merrill plays left-handed due to a birth defect that renders him unable to move the middle finger of his left hand. [9]
Merrill uses Dunlop Clear "D" plastic fingerpicks on his plucking-hand index and ring fingers, which contributes to his distinctive style of play. [10]
According to Merrill, when he is in the studio, he runs a Line 6 guitar POD direct for growly, midrangy distortion, and he blends that with miked cabinets." [10]
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