by Mike Shinoda recently participated in an interview where he was asked to choose his favorites between different bands. One particular matchup caused him significant difficulty, as shared on RTL2.
Shinoda was presented with several “this or that” questions pitting various legendary bands against Metallica. Most choices came easily to him. One particular comparison left him genuinely conflicted.
When asked to choose between Metallica and Radiohead, Shinoda responded confidently: “I think probably Metallica.”
The questions continued with Pearl Jam as the alternative. “Metallica. I feel like I’m gonna get into trouble for some reason,” he said with a laugh.
When AC/DC was presented as the option, Shinoda again chose Metallica. He questioned the interviewer’s approach: “Metallica. Why did you start with Metallica?”
However, when Depeche Mode entered the conversation, Shinoda’s confidence wavered completely.
“That’s very close. If I choose them, my universe collapses,” he explained. “It’s like if you go back in time and you meet your self and then folds in on itself. That what happens if I choose between those bands.”
This response revealed the deep impact both Metallica and Depeche Mode have had on Shinoda’s musical development. The choice between them became nearly impossible for the artist.
Shinoda’s difficulty in choosing between these influential bands reflects his diverse musical background. It also shows the creative versatility that has defined his career beyond Linkin Park.
Linkin Pedia reported that Shinoda formed Fort Minor in 2004. This hip-hop project allowed him to explore different musical directions and collaborate with high-profile artists. The project showcased his ability to blend genres and work across different musical styles. It demonstrated the broad influences that shaped his artistic vision.
His creative pursuits extend far beyond music production. Art Center College of Design documented that Shinoda has created album covers, designed merchandise, and exhibited his paintings in major museums and galleries. He balances his music career with a thriving visual arts practice. This multifaceted approach to creativity underscores how different artistic influences, including bands like Metallica and Depeche Mode, have contributed to his comprehensive artistic development.
The Fort Minor project particularly highlighted Shinoda’s hip-hop influences. Mike Shinoda Clan noted that Jay-Z served as executive producer on Fort Minor’s debut album “The Rising Tied” in 2005. This collaboration demonstrated Shinoda’s ability to work across musical boundaries and genres. It showed his versatility much like the diverse range of bands he was asked to choose between in the recent interview.
Shinoda’s hesitation when faced with choosing between Metallica and Depeche Mode ultimately reflects the complex musical landscape that has influenced his work throughout his career. This spans from Linkin Park’s nu-metal innovations to his solo hip-hop explorations and visual art endeavors.
