Robbie Merrill | |
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.jpg) 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) is an American bassist, best known as a founding member of the rock bands Godsmack and Another Animal. He was featured in the Behind the Player interactive music video.
Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Merrill started playing bass at age fourteen, having traded in his train set for the instrument. 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. Before joining Godsmack, Merrill worked as a self-employed carpenter, a trade likewise pursued by Tony Rombola.
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.
Merrill uses Dunlop Clear "D" plastic fingerpicks on his plucking-hand index and ring fingers, which contributes to his distinctive style of play.
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."
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| Related articles | |
| Authority control databases: Artists |
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