By Nicholas Jason Lopez
After Chloe Trujillo (Gail Zappa) and Mark Dalbeth (Bellusira) connected online and found a common respect for each other’s musical journeys, it resulted in a collaboration track called “Lightning Strikes Twice.”
Both have since taken on the duo moniker of “Chloe Trujillo & Rav Medic” and are busy at work on new music in the studio and recently announced that they teamed up with Golden Robot Records for future releases.
Ever since she was a young child in Paris, Trujillo has took it upon herself to be immensely involved in the art/music world, which has resulted in a palette cleansed within a vast array of different styles.
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with Trujillo – also the wife of Robert Trujillo (Metallica, Suicidal Tendencies) – about “Lightning Strikes Twice” and more.
Music Bugle – A question not many get to answer – what is it like being married to a member of Metallica?
Chloe Trujillo – Well, first of all, I met Robert when I was still in high school in Paris, France. He was in Suicidal back then, so already a musician. I grew up surrounded by artists, politicians and people who were in the public eye, including many members of my family. I saw the hard work and dedication more than the “fame,” if that is what you mean by your question? Same with Robert. I have known him for so long and I have seen the amount of work he puts in music. All I can say is seeing all these people evolve is so inspiring! I’ve always been a hard worker in everything I do. I’m a bit of a workaholic, but when you put passion into what you do, it’s not work, it’s love. It’s a positive energy. It’s fulfilling. It makes life purposeful! Also, the plus is I get to see lots of amazing Metallica shows. That too is inspiring, seeing not just the band, but everyone who makes those shows happen flawlessly and smoothly, same work ethics and dedication! And the energy!
Music Bugle – What was your goal for “Lightning Strikes Twice”?
Chloe Trujillo – Well, when Mark and I connected and first decided to collaborate on a song, we really didn’t have any goal other than have fun and create a cool song together and see what happens! We didn’t meet in person until we had to shoot the video! That being said, we had a great connection over emails and phone calls and mostly music! We got excited on how this song came out and are so grateful for the amazing response it’s been getting, so now we have more songs on the way!
Music Bugle – Did the video for “Lightning Strikes Twice” come out the way you had hoped?
Chloe Trujillo – I let our videographer take over. Anne Pruvost has been directing and filming all the videos of my solo album so far and never disappointed, so yes! Again, she did an amazing job! Mark had suggested that “match” idea and Anne took it to the next level with a twist.
Music Bugle – How have you been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?
Chloe Trujillo – So, I just want to say that I try as much as possible to look at the positive aspects of things, so here are my positive points – I have been more productive than ever, since we couldn’t go anywhere, I learned to use my DAW to create more songs on my own, releasing all this music, I’ve been painting a lot too, performing virtual live shows and also connecting with my family a lot! Robert is hardly home that much, so we got to spend quality time, cook together, enjoy much needed family time. I won’t talk about the hard and sad things…
Music Bugle – Who are you listening to right now, music-wise?
Chloe Trujillo – A lot of old 80’s/90’s thrash albums and some death metal here and there, but mostly, the music I’m working on!
Music Bugle – Where do you go when you need a break?
Chloe Trujillo – That’s a good question. I have yet to learn to take a break! (Laughs) I go to the beach, on a hike, I go roller skating, or dancing.
Music Bugle – What’s something that you wish happened less in today’s music industry?
Chloe Trujillo – The overproduction of songs. When I hear old records, there is something about the imperfections that makes music more soulful, more true, more human! I miss that!
Music Bugle – What’s a quote that motivates you to keep doing what you do?
Chloe Trujillo – I don’t have a quote, but I’m constantly thinking about time! There is much more I want to create and so little time. Maybe that’s why I’m a workaholic, but that’s what gets me going!
Music Bugle – Does social media help or hurt musicians?
Chloe Trujillo – I am actually not sure.
Music Bugle – What do you hope for by the end of 2021?
Chloe Trujillo – A better world, a truer and kinder world, a healthier world. That’s the best I can wish for!
*Photo Credit – Anne Provost*
