Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe is the anti-rock-star rock star, a salt-of-the-earth punk at heart who happens to front a world-famous metal band. And yet, in that capacity he excels — hence his reputation as one of the most captivating and ferocious frontman in heavy music. Considering his status within the scene, and the dues he has put in to get to that place, we asked Blythe to give us his top five pieces of advice for those about to rock.
1. Get a college degree
2. Be nice to everyone
Don't act like an entitled fuck because the people you see on the way up are gonna be the same people you see on the way down. And you never know what's gonna happen. There are no guarantees in this business. It could all disappear tomorrow and if your career goes down the shitter you might need to call in a few favors. Maybe someone needs a new band member, and if you've been nice to them, maybe they'll think of you, but if you were a dick, that's all they'll remember.
3. Treat your crew with respect.
They're the reason you aren't schlepping your own gear anymore.
4. Don't trash the fucking dressing room at the venue ...
... unless the owner of the venue is a complete asshole, because somebody has to come in there and clean it up. It might be someone's grandma.
5. Don't blow your money on a bunch of stupid shit like drugs and alcohol if you can help it
Save some. Again, there is no guarantee in this business. There's no pension plan or retirement fund. One day you aren't going to be the shit anymore and you aren't gonna have a band. You can't go on tour and make money. So don't buy an Escalade, get a goddamn used Honda. I've never owned a new car in my life. I bought a nice Toyota truck with not that many miles on it last year. That's the nicest thing I've ever bought.
