Born April 19, 1954 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, Bob Rock is one of the most iconic music producers in the history of Rock music. He started his career in the late 70s and quickly started to build a reputation for himself which would eventually lead to him being affectionately known in some circles as the fifth member of Metallica. His list of producer credits is something most could only dream of being able to list on their resume. Bob has produced some of the most memorable records to date including The Cult – Sonic Temple, Mötley Crüe – Dr. Feelgood, David Lee Roth – A Little Ain't Enough, Metallica – Metallica (The Black Album), Bon Jovi – Keep the Fait as well as landing other credits on albums such as Aerosmith – Permanent Vacation and Bon Jovi – Slippery When Wet.

Being alone and listening to records and trying to figure out how to play the guitar
- Bob Rock

Gibson has now launched a new series called ‘Icons’ where they sit down with legendary industry names and explore their career. Bob Rock talks about how he discovered music, his first guitar, and who inspired him to pick up a guitar.

“Being alone and listening to records and trying to figure out how to play the guitar,” rock explains int the new Gibson series. “It was a big thing for me as I realised...my sister was older than me and she went to the clubs, I’d go with her and the guys would let me in so I saw a lot of these blues bands. There were some amazing players and I got heavily into the Blues because of certain records that made such an impression on me.”

“Ever since I started making money, even when I wasn’t making very much money, I was into sound. I collect sound. I’m a complete gearhead. Those things were always on my mind. The drums were always based on [John] Bonham’s. Then, there was the other side of it. What Ken Scott did with Supertramp and [David] Bowie. The guys who taught me were English.” Rock said in an extensive interview with decibelmagazine.com

Bob Rock famously produced Metallica’s “Black” album. “I just came in to help them with a record. If we’re doing Led Zeppelin, that’d be a different story for me. I’d be so enamoured with them, I’m not sure I could do it. With Metallica, they were just guys to me. I didn’t cater to what they were. I catered to what they wanted to do. That’s ultimately what a producer is.” he said.

Author Bio: AC Speed

Senior Editor

I started my career as a music journalist in 2013 and have been involved in the music industry as a touring musician, studio engineer and artist consultant since 2002, as well as previously being a signed artist. My passion for delivering high quality, informative music-related news is a daily driving force behind the content I create. Also a huge gaming nerd! Born in the United Kingdom and currently living in Sweden. Skål!

CONTACT ME HERE

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