The San Francisco Examiner interviews Chuck Billy, the lead singer of Testament. Billy, a member of the Hopland Band of Pomo Indians, is featured in the Up Where We Belong: Native Musicians in Popular Culture exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian.

"How did this Smithsonian thing come about?
They contacted us, saying they wanted me in there representing Native American heritage for its contribution to pop culture, and they wanted to put something in there for heavy metal. And I was like, “Wow, really?!” I didn’t even think it was really happening until I got the release form and was invited to the ribbon-cutting. But, I didn’t get to attend the cutting because we were in Australia playing a show, so I haven’t seen the display. But, they’ve got my photo up and the story of my contribution to music.

How have your Pomo beliefs informed your music with Testament?
Back in 2001, I had cancer. And, I was born and raised a Catholic, went to church and the whole bit, so it wasn’t like I was really turned on to my Native American side at all. But, it got to where I really turned to my Native American spirituality and went through the process of healing ceremonies, sweat lodges and just — just believing. Being focused on the power of the Earth, as well as the power of the mind. And, here I am. Back on tour, doing what I love."

Get the Story:
Where heavy metal and American Indians meet (The San Francisco Examiner 8/26)