About this interview
In this 2009 interview with Ryan Minic of Ryan's Rock Show, Trivium guitarist Corey Beaulieu reflects on the band’s rise, their experience opening for Metallica, and the lessons learned from years of relentless touring. Playing arenas was always the goal, and opening for Metallica was a surreal experience. Despite the band’s legendary status, they were chill, down-to-earth, and easy to talk to, making the moment less intimidating than expected.
Since forming in 2000, Trivium has had the opportunity to tour the world, experiencing different cultures and meeting people from all walks of life. Corey describes how traveling has broadened his perspective, shaping both his musical and personal growth. The support of their families has been crucial from the beginning, helping them push through the early struggles of touring in a van before reaching the success they have today. His own family has been incredibly supportive—his dad even has a Trivium tattoo.
Growing up in Maine, Corey moved to Florida to attend school, where he ended up meeting the band. He recalls how a chance encounter at a local venue led to a friendship with Trivium’s members, eventually landing him an audition. With no interest in pursuing a traditional job, he jumped at the opportunity to join, and the rest was history.
Looking back, he has never felt discouraged about the journey, grateful for the ability to write, record, and perform music professionally. Getting signed was a turning point, with Roadrunner Records discovering them through a smaller German label. A well-timed demo featuring "Like Light to the Flies" sealed the deal, solidifying their place on the label and setting the stage for their breakthrough album Ascendancy.