Unmasking the Evolution: A Deep Dive Into SLIPKNOT Band Members From The Past And Present
SLIPKNOT has carved its place in the annals of rock history with a potent blend of aggression, theatrics, and masked mystique. As we journey through our list of past and present SLIPKNOT Band Members, as well as a look at their tumultuous history, we’ll unmask the individuals who have shaped its sonic onslaught, delving into their entrances, exits, and the stories that define SLIPKNOT‘s ever-evolving lineup.
Formed in 1995, SLIPKNOT emerged as an underground force with a chaotic energy that set them apart from other metal acts. Nine masked figures, identified by numbers rather than names, embraced the darkness and donned grotesque masks that became synonymous with their image.
The Seeds of Discord:
SLIPKNOT‘s story begins in Des Moines, Iowa, a city not typically associated with the pulverizing sounds of metal or a flourishing heavy music scene.
In September 1995, drummer Shawn Crahan and bassist Paul Gray initiated a musical venture called THE PALE ONES. The ensemble comprised individuals who had connected through the local music scene, featuring vocalist Anders Colsefni and guitarist Donnie Steele.
Shortly after their formation, Gray extended an invitation to drummer Joey Jordison to join a rehearsal, aiming to incorporate additional drum elements into their sound. Jordison accepted the offer, becoming the drummer and prompting Crahan‘s transition to percussion. In addition, Colsefni assumed percussion duties while retaining his role as the band’s vocalist. Opting to expand, the group welcomed Josh Brainard as their second guitarist, solidifying a six-member lineup.
Following a private Halloween performance on October 31, the band marked their public debut on November 5 at a benefit show under the moniker MELD.
The initial stages of the band’s evolution were often credited to late-night strategy sessions held at a Sinclair gas station, where Gray, Crahan, and Jordison would convene during Jordison‘s night shifts. It was in the latter part of 1995, during one of these sessions, that Jordison proposed a shift in the band’s name to SLIPKNOT, drawing inspiration from their own track with the same title.
In February 1996, the departure of guitarist Donnie Steele marked a pivotal moment for the band. Steele, driven by discussions about the band’s lyrical content with producer Sean McMahon and his own spiritual reflections as a Christian, made the decision to vacate the burgeoning group.
In the midst of mixing their project at SR Audio, Craig Jones stepped in as Steele‘s successor on guitar. However, as the band experimented with samples during studio sessions, the challenge arose of replicating these sounds in live performances. Consequently, Jones transitioned into the role of the band’s sampler, and Mick Thomson was enlisted as the replacement guitarist. Following a complex period of mixing and mastering, the band independently released “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.” on Halloween, October 31, 1996.
Released in limited quantities of 1,000 copies, distribution of SLIPKNOT‘s first, self-financed album “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.” commenced on October 31, 1996. Subsequently, the band managed to sell the remaining 386 units through -ismist Recordings in 1997. (As the group ascended to fame, this album has garnered significant interest among fans, turning into a sought-after collector’s item. Original copies of the album have fetched prices as high as $1,000 in the market.)
During this period, the band was actively seeking a shift towards more melodic vocals in their music. This led to the recruitment of Corey Taylor from the Des Moines group STONE SOUR. This move prompted Anders Colsefni‘s transition to backing vocals and percussion.
While immersed in studio work, the band continued local performances, and during a September 1997 show, Colsefni made the on-stage announcement of his departure. The vacuum in percussion was filled by Greg Welts, affectionately known as “Cuddles.”
In early 1998, SLIPKNOT crafted a second demo, featuring five tracks exclusively for record labels. The band’s visibility soared, drawing attention from various labels and in February 1998, after witnessing rehearsals in Des Moines, producer Ross Robinson offered to produce their debut album.
DJ Sid Wilson became the band’s ninth member after expressing great interest and impressing the existing collective that made up the group. In late June, the band secured a substantial seven-album deal worth $500,000 from Roadrunner Records, publicly sealing the deal on July 8, 1998. Just two days before this landmark, Welts was dismissed from the band, a matter on which SLIPKNOT remains tight-lipped. Brandon Darner stepped in as Welts‘ replacement, although he departed shortly after joining the group, making way for new percussionist Chris Fehn.
The Formation of the Nine:
As the band expanded its vision, additional changes of SLIPKNOT Band Members continued, which would eventually culminate in a nine-piece lineup. Each member brought a unique set of skills, influences, and personalities to the table, which would contribute to the band’s diverse musical palette.
This final lineup eventually included Corey Taylor (vocals), Mick Thomson (guitar), Josh Brainard (guitar), Craig Jones (samples and media), Greg “Cuddles” Welts (percussion), Sid Wilson (turntables), Shawn “Clown” Crahan (percussionist), Joey Jordison (drums) and Paul Gray (bass), solidifying what would become known as the “original nine”.
Molding the Sound:
SLIPKNOT‘s sonic landscape defies easy categorization, drawing inspiration from multiple sub-genres of metal, including nu-metal, death metal, and industrial metal. The band’s willingness to experiment with unconventional instruments such as turntables and custom percussion setups added a layer of complexity to their music. Their sound became a visceral, chaotic blend of aggression and melody, setting them apart from their contemporaries.
Masks and Mayhem:
Central to the group’s mystique are the elaborate masks worn by each member, creating an otherworldly, uniform appearance. The decision to adopt masks was not merely a gimmick but a strategic move to divert attention from individual identities and focus on the collective force of the band. This anonymity intensified the band’s enigmatic aura, inviting listeners to connect with the music rather than the personalities behind it.
Self-Titled Debut and Breakthrough:
In the midst of recording their debut major label album in Malibu, California, the band made a temporary return to Des Moines for the Christmas period. It was during this break that guitarist Josh Brainard made the decision to part ways with the band, citing dissatisfaction with certain choices that had been made. Following Brainard‘s departure, STONE SOUR guitarist Jim Root was brought in to finalize their lineup. With the addition of Root, the band resumed their work on the album, returning to Malibu to continue the recording process.
In 1999, SLIPKNOT unleashed their self-titled debut major label LP, a sonic onslaught that captivated and repelled in equal measure. The record’s raw intensity, coupled with the band’s ferocious live performances, garnered attention in the metal community and beyond. Tracks like “Wait and Bleed” and “Spit It Out” showcased the group’s ability to balance aggression with infectious hooks, paving the way for a forthcoming, massive, mainstream success and showcasing the abilities of what many fans consider to be “the original nine”.
The “Original Nine”
Sid Wilson (#0): DJ Sid Wilson, identified as “#0,” injects electronic chaos into SLIPKNOT‘s sonic tapestry. His energetic stage antics and turntable wizardry are pivotal components of the group’s live experience.
Joey Jordison (#1): The pulse behind SLIPKNOT, Joey Jordison, was a founding member, contributing not only percussive prowess but also songwriting ingenuity.
Paul Gray (#2): Bassist Paul Gray, known as “#2,” was a driving force and the band’s moral compass.
Chris Fehn (#3): The rhythmic backbone, Chris Fehn (#3), brought percussive intensity as a custom percussionist.
James Root (#4): Guitarist Jim Root, known as “#4,” has been a constant force in SLIPKNOT‘s sonic landscape. His searing guitar work and contributions to songwriting solidify his continued, integral role in the band.
Craig Jones (#5): The mysterious sonic architect, Craig Jones (#5), manipulated samples and contributed to the band’s industrial edge.
Shawn Crahan (#6): Percussionist Shawn Crahan, or “Clown” (#6), co-founded the band and is its creative visionary. His mask designs and avant-garde approach to percussion make him an indispensable force in the band’s evolution.
Mick Thomson (#7): Mick Thomson, the ferocious guitarist, earned his spot as “#7” with his brutal riffs and menacing stage presence. His resilience through the band’s ups and downs solidifies his status as a SLIPKNOT mainstay.
Corey Taylor (#8): The iconic voice of SLIPKNOT, Corey Taylor, assumed the role of lead vocalist and lyricist, identified as “#8” early on. His vocal dexterity, commanding stage presence, and prolific songwriting continues to define the band’s sonic identity.
“Iowa” and Artistic Maturity:
The release of their second album, “Iowa,” in 2001 marked a significant step forward for the band. Darker, heavier, and more introspective, “Iowa” delved into the SLIPKNOT Band Members’ personal struggles, painting a bleak yet cathartic picture. Despite its challenging themes, the album resonated with fans and critics alike, solidifying the group’s place as a major force in the metal scene.
From “The Subliminal Versus” to “The End, So Far”
After the release of “Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses)” in 2004, SLIPKNOT experienced a period of creative exploration and personal growth. The album marked a departure from their earlier aggressive sound, incorporating more melodic elements and showcasing the band’s versatility. During this time, the lineup remained relatively stable, with no major changes among the core members.
In 2008, SLIPKNOT unleashed “All Hope Is Gone,” which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. This album featured a blend of heavy aggression and experimental elements, showcasing the band’s ability to evolve while maintaining their signature intensity.
The devastating news of bassist Paul Gray passing away on May 24, 2010 really through the band through the emotional wringer. The official cause of his death was determined to be an overdose of morphine and fentanyl. The circumstances surrounding his passing were tragic, and the medical examiner ruled it as an accidental overdose.
Paul had a history of substance abuse issues, including addiction to drugs like cocaine and opioids, which contributed to the unfortunate outcome. His death was a significant loss to the band and the music community, as Gray was not only a talented musician but also one of the group’s founding members. For the interim, former guitarist Donne Steele would return to the group to fill Paul‘s shoes on bass. At least for the short-term.
Notably, this period saw the departure of drummer Joey Jordison in 2013, a founding member and a significant contributor to the band’s sound.
As the years progressed, SLIPKNOT would eventually release “.5: The Gray Chapter” in 2014, which marked their first album without Paul Gray or Joey Jordison. Steele would once again depart the group during this time period, with two new, mysterious players filling the drums and bass spots. The mysterious, new, masked musicians would eventually be revealed to be bassist Alessandro Venturella and drummer Jay Weinberg.
“.5: The Gray Chapter” paid tribute to Gray and was well-received, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200.
“We Are Not Your Kind” and “The End, So Far”
On March 14, 2019, percussionist Chris Fehn initiated a lawsuit against SLIPKNOT, alleging withheld payments. Fehn specifically accused Corey Taylor and Shawn Crahan of establishing various band-related business entities across different states to collect funds without his knowledge. He demanded a comprehensive forensic accounting of the band’s companies and assets to determine owed profits and damages.
In response, Taylor dismissed the claims on Twitter, promising that the truth would prevail. On March 18, 2019, SLIPKNOT officially announced Fehn‘s departure, citing their commitment to the upcoming album and global shows. Despite the removal of this statement from their website a few days later, Fehn‘s lawyer stated his employment status remained unchanged.
By May 2019, amidst work on the band’s latest album “We Are Not Your Kind“, which would arrive in August of that year, Fehn was seemingly replaced, with the new percussionist being referred to only as “Tortilla Man.” While the band concealed his identity, fans linked him to Michael Pfaff, a former member of Crahan‘s side project DIRTY LITTLE RABITS. The band officially confirmed Pfaff as “Tortilla Man” on March 16, 2022, nearly two years later.
On July 19, 2022, SLIPKNOT revealed details about their seventh and final album with Roadrunner Records, titled “The End, So Far.” The record featured the singles “The Dying Song (Time to Sing)” and “Yen,” and dropped on September 30, 2022.
On June 7, 2023, the band announced the departure of long-time sampler and keyboardist Craig “133” Jones, a member since 1996. The social media posts regarding Jones were swiftly deleted. Simultaneously, at the Nova Rock Festival in Austria, the band performed with an apparent new member replacing Jones. The identity of this new member sparked rampant speculation on who the new person was, with some even believing it to be Jones himself in a new mask.
Subsequently, on November 5, 2023, the band announced it was parting ways with drummer Jay Weinberg, with social media posts about his departure also removed soon after their being published. It would eventually be revealed in April 2024 that he was replaced by former SEPULTURA drummer Eloy Casagrande.
Evolution and Departures:
SLIPKNOT Band Members history has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. The departure of key members, while heartbreaking, has ushered in new eras, with each contributing to the band’s sonic evolution.
Departed Members:
Joey Jordison (#1): As a founding member, Jordison‘s departure in 2013 marked a seismic shift. His reasons remain somewhat cryptic, but the impact of his absence is undeniable. His untimely passing in 2021 left a void that the metal world continues to mourn.
Paul Gray (#2): Gray‘s tragic death on May 24, 2010 was a significant loss. The medical examiner’s report concluded that the death was accidental overdose, and Gray‘s history of substance abuse issues, including addiction to drugs like cocaine and opioids, contributed to the tragic outcome. The loss of Paul Gray was a significant blow to the band and the metal community as a whole.
Chris Fehn (#3): The departure of Chris Fehn in 2019 was surrounded by legal disputes. While his onstage presence was missed, the band forged ahead, reshaping their percussive dynamics.
Craig Jones (#5): Jones split from the group in June of 2023. Upon his departure, the band posted the following message: “To our fans, SLIPKNOT is announcing that we have parted ways with Craig Jones. “We wish Jones all the best for the future.” Not much else is known as to why Jones departed the group, leading fans only to speculate.
Jay Weinberg: Drummer Jay Weinberg was released from the band in November of 2023. Upon his termination, the group released the following statement via social media: “We would like to thank Jay Weinberg for his dedication and passion over the past ten years. 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. The band has decided to make a creative decision, and to part ways with Jay. We wish Jay all the best and are very excited for what the future holds.”
Weinberg‘s final performance with the band took place on Friday, November 3, at the Hell & Heaven festival in Toluca, Mexico.
The Continuing Legacy:
SLIPKNOT‘s resilience is exemplified by those who have weathered storms and continue to forge ahead, creating a legacy that transcends masks and numbers.
Current SLIPKNOT Band Members:
James Root: A steady force since 1999, Root‘s guitar work and songwriting contributions remain integral to SLIPKNOT‘s sonic assault.
Michael Pfaff: The enigmatic “Tortilla Man” continues to shape a massive part of the band’s rhythmic bottom end and expand the group’s sonic experimentation.
Shawn Crahan: As a co-founder, Clown‘s creative vision and avant-garde percussion continue to push the band into new artistic realms.
Mick Thomson: Thomson‘s relentless guitar work has been a constant force since 1996, contributing to the group’s sonic brutality.
Sid Wilson: DJ Sid Wilson‘s electronic chaos and onstage energy inject a unique dynamic into the band’s live performances.
Corey Taylor: The charismatic frontman, Corey Taylor, remains the voice of the group, steering the ship with his powerful vocals and songwriting prowess.
Alessandro Venturella: a powerful bassist who has proven his own merit within the band since his joining in 2014.
Eloy Casagrande: A powerhouse drummer who took the place of the vacated Jay Weinberg. The heavy hitter vacated his position behind the drum kit in SEPULTURA to undertake his current role as SLIPKNOT’s drummer.
The Future Unveiled: “Look Outside Your Window”:
As SLIPKNOT continues to evolve, the anticipation surrounding the release of “Look Outside Your Window” adds a thrilling chapter to their storied history. Originally recorded in 2008, the album’s long-awaited arrival in 2024 promises to showcase a unique facet of the band’s multifaceted sound, offering fans a glimpse into the band’s uncharted territories.
SLIPKNOT‘s journey is a tapestry woven with intensity, tragedy, and unwavering determination. As they navigate through changes in lineup and face the challenges of an ever-evolving industry, the group stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of heavy metal. With the legacy of fallen members honored and the current lineup forging ahead, SLIPKNOT‘s mask-wearing, number-bearing collective remains an unyielding force in the realm of heavy metal.
SLIPKNOT 2024 Band Members breakdown
Shawn “Clown” Crahan 1995 – present
Percussion/backing vocals: all releases — founding member
Mick Thomson 1996 – present
Guitar: all releases except “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.“
Corey Taylor 1997 – present
Lead vocals: all releases except “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.“
Sid Wilson 1998 – present
Turntables/keyboards: all releases except “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.“
Jim Root 1999 – present
Guitar: all releases except “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.“
Alessandro Venturella 2014 – present
Bass guitar: all releases since “.5 The Gray Chapter.“
Michael Pfaff 2019 – present
Percussion/backing vocals: all releases since “The End, So Far” (2022)
Eloy Casagrande 2024 – present
Ex-SEPULTRA drummer who made his live debut with SLIPKNOT in 2024.
Past SLIPKNOT Band Members:
Joey Jordison 1995 – 2013 (died 2021)
Drums on all releases from “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.” (1996) to “Antennas to Hell” (2012) & “Live at MSG” (2023)
Paul Gray 1995 – 2010 (died 2010)
Bass/backing vocals: All albums through to “All Hope Is Gone” (2008)
Donnie Steele 1995–1996/2011–2014 (touring)
“Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.” (1996) & “.5: The Gray Chapter” (2014)
Josh “Gnar” Brainard 1995–1999
Rhythm guitar/backing vocals: “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.” (1996) & “Slipknot” (1999)
Anders Colsefni 1995 – 1997
Lead vocals (1995–1997)/backing vocals (1997), percussion on “Mate. Feed. Kill. Repeat.” (1996)
Craig “133” Jones 1996–2023
Guitar (1996), samples/media/keyboards (1996–2023): all releases from “Slipknot” (1999) to “Live at MSG” (2023)
Greg “Cuddles” Welts 1997–1998
Percussion/backing vocals: “Slipknot” (1999)
Brandon Darner 1998
Percussion (touring)
Chris Fehn 1998–2019
all releases from “Slipknot” (1999) to “We Are Not Your Kind” (2019) & “Live at MSG” (2023)
Jay Weinberg 2014–2023
Drums: all releases from “.5: The Gray Chapter” (2014) to “Adderall” (EP) (2023)
