Jay Weinberg expressed feeling “heartbroken and blindsided” by SLIPKNOT’s unexpected decision to part ways with him after his dedicated 10-year tenure with the band
Earlier today (Saturday, November 11), Jay posted the following message about his being let go from SLIPKNOT on social media: “I sometimes wonder what it would be like to pay a visit to my wide-eyed, 10-year-old self — falling head over heels in love with a new and exciting sound and culture — and tell him all about the last 10 years. Even on the hardest days, I’d like to think he’d be stoked about the adventure that was in store for him.
“I was heartbroken and blindsided to receive the phone call that I did on the morning of November 5th; the news of which, most of you learned shortly after. However, I’ve been overwhelmed by — and truly grateful for — the outpouring of love and support I’ve received from this incredible community I consider to be my creative and artistic home.
“This is not the ending to the journey I’d dreamt of, and committed myself to seeing through — not by a long shot. But, despite the confusion and sadness, there is something that’s provided an equal amount of comfort. For many of you reading this: 10 years ago, we weren’t yet acquainted. And now, we are. For that, I’m thankful in ways I’ll never be able to fully express.
“I love playing the drums. I’ll always love playing the drums. I’ll always have a passion for music, art, and creative expression. Nothing will ever change that.
“I don’t know how, and I don’t know when, but I look forward to creating loud, passionate, and heartfelt music that we enjoy together again. Until then, please know it’s been the joy of a lifetime to spend the last 10 years with you, sharing in our love for this special corner of the music and art world.
“This isn’t the end, and I’m thrilled to discover what the future has in store for us.
“Thank you.”
When SLIPKNOT initially made the announcement that Jay Weinberg was no longer a part of the band, they thanked him for his “dedication and passion over the past ten years.” They also noted: “No one can ever replace Joey Jordison‘s original sound, style or energy, but Jay honored Joey‘s parts and contributed to the last three albums and we, the band, and the fans appreciate it. But as ever, SLIPKNOT is intent on evolving. We wish Jay all the best and are very excited for what the future holds.”
On November 5, SLIPKNOT made their announcement public through social media, stating their choice to part company with Jay was a creative decision.
This past June, shortly following the band’s revelation about the departure of longtime member Craig Jones, SLIPKNOT introduced a new keyboardist. The debut performance featuring this mysterious new member occurred on June 7 at the Nova Rock festival in Austria, immediately after the band’s social media post confirming Jones‘s exit.