FACTS
- "Carve" is the background song on the now defunct Slipknot2.com website which was online back in 1999 up to early 2000. Carve is one of the unreleased demos recorded by the band in 1997. It features both Anders and Corey on vocals, Josh on guitars, Craig as the sampler, Joey on drums, Paul on bass, and Shawn on percussions. Apparently, Shawn doesn't want the song to spread. So if you have a copy, kindly keep it to yourself or stream it. - Chris Fehn's nose is only 7 inches long and not 12 inches as previously reported.
- The nails on Craig's helmet is 6 inches long and is not made of rubber.
- The sample used on 742671000027 was taken from a Charles Manson documentary.
- The sample used on the beginning of (sic) where someone screams: 'Here comes the pain' was taken from the movie Carlito's Way. The voice was Al Pacino's.
- In Diluted, there is a sample played where a man is saying: 'I don't have time for the living'. That sample was taken from the movie Cemetary Man.
- Craig's name 133 has a speculated story behind it. 133 (Craig's name) multiply it by 5 (his number) plus 1 (his person) and you get 666. Also, rumor has it that Pentium 133 is the speed of Craig's PC, that's why he named himself after that.
- Craig "5" maintains Slipknot1.com while Shawn "6" and a guitar technician work on Slipknot2.com
- 870631245 is the bands personalized numbers jumbled up. Nothing new.
- The bands' self-titled debut album was the most successful record Roadrunner ever had, with Coal Chamber coming close.
- Paul Gray (Bass) was with Anders (MFKR vocalist) and Josh (MFKR Guitarist) on a band called VeXX. They were also on a group called Body Pit with Mick Thomson and Donnie Steele before they joined Slipknot.
- The actual height of Mick is 6'2" and James is 6'6".
- Slipknot was featured on the New York Times recently and all of it are praises. No media bashing.
- Slipknot purchased the rights to the barcode number, 742617000027, and used it for logos, t-shirts, Mate.Feed.Kill.Repeat and the first track on their self-titled album.
- Slipknot are the first band to be signed to Ross Robinson's I AM Records imprint through Roadrunner Records.
- The dreads on Corey's mask is real. He used to have his dreads come out of the mask but he had problems with it so he shaved his head bald and glued the dreads on top of the mask.
- Craig Jones' (Sampler) helmet was once an actual racing helmet, and always wonders why people move out of the crowd when he starts to head-bang.
- The song 'Purity' is about a teenager named Purity Knight who was stalked and eventually kidnapped by a man. This man sent clues to the cops daring them to find her. And in the end, he buried her alive and suffocated underground. For more details, go to Crimescene
- Slipknot's self-titled second album was re-released after Corey Taylor found out that the Purity Knight story was just fictional. In order to avoid lawsuits, the band replaced Purity and Frail Limb Nursery with Me Inside, a track taken from the Digipack release. Corey, however, still believes that there is truth to the Purity Knight story.
- In the song 'Eyeless', Corey repeats the chorus :"You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes". That line was taken from an incident when the band went to sign their record deal with Roadrunner in New York, Corey saw a homeless man on the sidewalk repeating. "You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes". Marlon Brando is a famous actor who played such roles in the Tragedy of Julius Caesar, The Godfather and The Island Of Dr. Moreau.
- After Scissors, there is a secret track wherein the band is talking with each other and you can hear someone puking. Shawn Crahan dropped clues on what the hell is happening there and said it was an initiation for Chris "2" Fehn, but he's not gonna' tell us what is going on.
- The picture on the cover of "Slipknot" was taken in Shawn Crahan's parent's garage.
- The inside tray photo was Slipknot's roadie wrapped up in cellophane and spray painted to look (sic).
- Slipknot met at "Runway For Sundays", the only club in Des Moines that lets original bands open for each other.
- Slipknot played their first gigs at "Safaris", next to the "World Of Christ" church.
- Corey used to work in a porn shop in Des Moines. "People would look at me like I was a freak, but they were the ones buying in the porn shop at four in the morning. Straight looking people I'd know would come to the register with 14-inch dildos and then they'd recognise me sitting there, and I'd be like, 'Like any lotions or lubes with that?'. But I didn't want anyone to feel dirty in the shop - because people are made to feel dirty every day of their lives, and that's bullshit"
- Shawn Crahan, Joey Jordison and Craig Jones were all in a band called 'Motividious' together before Slipknot. and Paul Gray and Mick Thomson were in a band called 'Body Pit'.
- "Mate Feed Kill Repeat" cost the band $150,000 to record, mix, master and reproduce.
- Anders and Corey played shows around Des Moines together, sharing vocal duties before Anders officially announced his departure from the band on a live audience.
- Shawn used to have a 'dead crow' fetish. He says, "Back then I had a dead crow fetish, and I'd bring one in a bottle to shows. I'd open the jar, and the smell would make me puke all over myself inside my mask. Then I'd offer it to the kids and they'd dip their hands into it and wipe it on their faces and they'd be puking too. It was rad."
- On the MFKR albums' liner notes, the band is dedicating the album to a certain Joey. They're not pertaining to the drummer Joey Jordison...but Joey Plumley, the brother of a man named Frank which are very close friends with the band. Joey shot himself accidentaly with a gun the same year the band recorded the CD.
- Corey has the Japanese character for "death" tattooed on one side of his neck, and the character for "father" on the other side. This was because he never knew his father.
- Corey originally wanted to play drums, but began writing and singing songs after hearing Soundgarden's "Screaming Life" and Nirvana's "Bleach".
- Corey was a member of Stone Sour, who played "half originals, half cheesy Top 40 crap". He also appeared maskless on the cover of Stone Sour's CD.
- Shawn Crahan knew Corey as "The King Of Des Moines" when StoneSour were the biggest band in town. The public didn't like the heavier songs he was writing. Then Shawn Crahan recruited him into Slipknot. Apparently this decision was made by Shawn, Joey and Mich going intoCorey's porn shop and "basicaly told me if I didn't join the band they'd kick my fucking ass".
- The nails on Craig's helmet is 6 inches long and is not made of rubber.
- The sample used on 742671000027 was taken from a Charles Manson documentary.
- The sample used on the beginning of (sic) where someone screams: 'Here comes the pain' was taken from the movie Carlito's Way. The voice was Al Pacino's.
- In Diluted, there is a sample played where a man is saying: 'I don't have time for the living'. That sample was taken from the movie Cemetary Man.
- Craig's name 133 has a speculated story behind it. 133 (Craig's name) multiply it by 5 (his number) plus 1 (his person) and you get 666. Also, rumor has it that Pentium 133 is the speed of Craig's PC, that's why he named himself after that.
- Craig "5" maintains Slipknot1.com while Shawn "6" and a guitar technician work on Slipknot2.com
- 870631245 is the bands personalized numbers jumbled up. Nothing new.
- The bands' self-titled debut album was the most successful record Roadrunner ever had, with Coal Chamber coming close.
- Paul Gray (Bass) was with Anders (MFKR vocalist) and Josh (MFKR Guitarist) on a band called VeXX. They were also on a group called Body Pit with Mick Thomson and Donnie Steele before they joined Slipknot.
- The actual height of Mick is 6'2" and James is 6'6".
- Slipknot was featured on the New York Times recently and all of it are praises. No media bashing.
- Slipknot purchased the rights to the barcode number, 742617000027, and used it for logos, t-shirts, Mate.Feed.Kill.Repeat and the first track on their self-titled album.
- Slipknot are the first band to be signed to Ross Robinson's I AM Records imprint through Roadrunner Records.
- The dreads on Corey's mask is real. He used to have his dreads come out of the mask but he had problems with it so he shaved his head bald and glued the dreads on top of the mask.
- Craig Jones' (Sampler) helmet was once an actual racing helmet, and always wonders why people move out of the crowd when he starts to head-bang.
- The song 'Purity' is about a teenager named Purity Knight who was stalked and eventually kidnapped by a man. This man sent clues to the cops daring them to find her. And in the end, he buried her alive and suffocated underground. For more details, go to Crimescene
- Slipknot's self-titled second album was re-released after Corey Taylor found out that the Purity Knight story was just fictional. In order to avoid lawsuits, the band replaced Purity and Frail Limb Nursery with Me Inside, a track taken from the Digipack release. Corey, however, still believes that there is truth to the Purity Knight story.
- In the song 'Eyeless', Corey repeats the chorus :"You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes". That line was taken from an incident when the band went to sign their record deal with Roadrunner in New York, Corey saw a homeless man on the sidewalk repeating. "You can't see California without Marlon Brando's eyes". Marlon Brando is a famous actor who played such roles in the Tragedy of Julius Caesar, The Godfather and The Island Of Dr. Moreau.
- After Scissors, there is a secret track wherein the band is talking with each other and you can hear someone puking. Shawn Crahan dropped clues on what the hell is happening there and said it was an initiation for Chris "2" Fehn, but he's not gonna' tell us what is going on.
- The picture on the cover of "Slipknot" was taken in Shawn Crahan's parent's garage.
- The inside tray photo was Slipknot's roadie wrapped up in cellophane and spray painted to look (sic).
- Slipknot met at "Runway For Sundays", the only club in Des Moines that lets original bands open for each other.
- Slipknot played their first gigs at "Safaris", next to the "World Of Christ" church.
- Corey used to work in a porn shop in Des Moines. "People would look at me like I was a freak, but they were the ones buying in the porn shop at four in the morning. Straight looking people I'd know would come to the register with 14-inch dildos and then they'd recognise me sitting there, and I'd be like, 'Like any lotions or lubes with that?'. But I didn't want anyone to feel dirty in the shop - because people are made to feel dirty every day of their lives, and that's bullshit"
- Shawn Crahan, Joey Jordison and Craig Jones were all in a band called 'Motividious' together before Slipknot. and Paul Gray and Mick Thomson were in a band called 'Body Pit'.
- "Mate Feed Kill Repeat" cost the band $150,000 to record, mix, master and reproduce.
- Anders and Corey played shows around Des Moines together, sharing vocal duties before Anders officially announced his departure from the band on a live audience.
- Shawn used to have a 'dead crow' fetish. He says, "Back then I had a dead crow fetish, and I'd bring one in a bottle to shows. I'd open the jar, and the smell would make me puke all over myself inside my mask. Then I'd offer it to the kids and they'd dip their hands into it and wipe it on their faces and they'd be puking too. It was rad."
- On the MFKR albums' liner notes, the band is dedicating the album to a certain Joey. They're not pertaining to the drummer Joey Jordison...but Joey Plumley, the brother of a man named Frank which are very close friends with the band. Joey shot himself accidentaly with a gun the same year the band recorded the CD.
- Corey has the Japanese character for "death" tattooed on one side of his neck, and the character for "father" on the other side. This was because he never knew his father.
- Corey originally wanted to play drums, but began writing and singing songs after hearing Soundgarden's "Screaming Life" and Nirvana's "Bleach".
- Corey was a member of Stone Sour, who played "half originals, half cheesy Top 40 crap". He also appeared maskless on the cover of Stone Sour's CD.
- Shawn Crahan knew Corey as "The King Of Des Moines" when StoneSour were the biggest band in town. The public didn't like the heavier songs he was writing. Then Shawn Crahan recruited him into Slipknot. Apparently this decision was made by Shawn, Joey and Mich going intoCorey's porn shop and "basicaly told me if I didn't join the band they'd kick my fucking ass".
INSTRUMENTS
0 Sid Wilson (DJ)
- 2 Vestax PDX2000 Turntables
- Vestax PMC-07 Pro D Samurai Mixer
- Shure M44-7 Needles
- Korg KP2 Kaos Pad
- Sony MDR-V700DJ Headphones
1 Joey Jordison (Drums)
MMX Masters Series
Diamond Burst/Emerald Fade
*all black hardware
- 22x18 bass drum x 2
- 8x7 tom
- 10x8 tom
- 12x9 tom
- 14x12 tom
- 16x16 floor tom
- 18x16 floor tom
- 14x6.5 snare drum
- DR503 drum rack
- DR501 front bar
- RJ50 mini-expansion bar
- PC50 pipe clamps x12
- CH88 cymbal holders x 8
- CH80 cymbal holders x 8
- CH88L cymbal holder
- TH88 tom holder
- TH88S tom holders x 5
- H2000 hi-hat stand
- D150 Roadster throne
- S2000 snare stand
- P2000C drum pedals x 2
- Easton AHEAD Sticks
- Remo Heads
- Pearl Eliminator Pedals
Cymbals - All White with a tribal S
- Paiste Rude 14" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 14" Hi-Hats
- Paiste Rude 16" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 18" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 10" Splash (Inverted)
- Paiste Rude 20" Power Ride
- Paiste Rude 20" China
- Paiste Rude 20" Ride/Crash
2 Paul Gray (Bass)
- Warwick Corvette (6 Strings) Bass
- Carvin Eden WT Head
- Ampeg 8X10 Cab
- Carvin Cabs
3 Chris Fehn (Percussions)
- Aircraft (Titanium) material kegs, the drums has springs on the bottom
- 2 Mounted Toms
- 1 Empty Steel Beer Keg
- 1 Bass Drum (Turned on other side)
- 1 Floor Tom
- Vater Hammer Sticks
4 James Root (Guitars)
- Fender Telecaster
- Rivera KnuckleHead Reverb 6L6 amps
- Mesa/Boogie DC10 head
- Mesa/Carvin 4x12 Cabs
- Dunlop RotoVibe
- Digitech Whammy
- Dual EMG 81 pick-ups
5 Craig Jones (Samples)
- Yamaha Controller
- Yamaha PSR 720
- Roland JP8000
- AKAI MPC2000XL Sampler
- Nord Lead Synth/Yamaha Crsx-7 for 74126000027
6 Shawn Crahan (Percussions)
- Dunnett Classic Drums
- 2 Mounted Toms
- 1 Floor Tom
- 1 Empty Steel Beer Keg
- 1 Bass Drum (Turned on other side)
- Zildijan Absolute Rock Sticks
- Vater Hammer Sticks
7 Mick Thomson (Guitars)
- B.C. Rich Bich Guitar (Custom made)
- Rivera KnuckleHead Reverb EL34 amps
- Marshall JMP1 Tube Preamp
- Boss GX700 Effects Processor
- Mesa/Boogie Simulclass 2:95 power amp
- Randall Isolation Cab
- VHT Pitbull Ultra Lead Heads
- 400 watt Carvin cabinet
- Dunlop Jazz III picks
8 Corey Taylor (Vocals)
- Shure SM58 microphone
- 2 Vestax PDX2000 Turntables
- Vestax PMC-07 Pro D Samurai Mixer
- Shure M44-7 Needles
- Korg KP2 Kaos Pad
- Sony MDR-V700DJ Headphones
1 Joey Jordison (Drums)
MMX Masters Series
Diamond Burst/Emerald Fade
*all black hardware
- 22x18 bass drum x 2
- 8x7 tom
- 10x8 tom
- 12x9 tom
- 14x12 tom
- 16x16 floor tom
- 18x16 floor tom
- 14x6.5 snare drum
- DR503 drum rack
- DR501 front bar
- RJ50 mini-expansion bar
- PC50 pipe clamps x12
- CH88 cymbal holders x 8
- CH80 cymbal holders x 8
- CH88L cymbal holder
- TH88 tom holder
- TH88S tom holders x 5
- H2000 hi-hat stand
- D150 Roadster throne
- S2000 snare stand
- P2000C drum pedals x 2
- Easton AHEAD Sticks
- Remo Heads
- Pearl Eliminator Pedals
Cymbals - All White with a tribal S
- Paiste Rude 14" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 14" Hi-Hats
- Paiste Rude 16" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 18" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 10" Splash (Inverted)
- Paiste Rude 20" Power Ride
- Paiste Rude 20" China
- Paiste Rude 20" Ride/Crash
2 Paul Gray (Bass)
- Warwick Corvette (6 Strings) Bass
- Carvin Eden WT Head
- Ampeg 8X10 Cab
- Carvin Cabs
3 Chris Fehn (Percussions)
- Aircraft (Titanium) material kegs, the drums has springs on the bottom
- 2 Mounted Toms
- 1 Empty Steel Beer Keg
- 1 Bass Drum (Turned on other side)
- 1 Floor Tom
- Vater Hammer Sticks
4 James Root (Guitars)
- Fender Telecaster
- Rivera KnuckleHead Reverb 6L6 amps
- Mesa/Boogie DC10 head
- Mesa/Carvin 4x12 Cabs
- Dunlop RotoVibe
- Digitech Whammy
- Dual EMG 81 pick-ups
5 Craig Jones (Samples)
- Yamaha Controller
- Yamaha PSR 720
- Roland JP8000
- AKAI MPC2000XL Sampler
- Nord Lead Synth/Yamaha Crsx-7 for 74126000027
6 Shawn Crahan (Percussions)
- Dunnett Classic Drums
- 2 Mounted Toms
- 1 Floor Tom
- 1 Empty Steel Beer Keg
- 1 Bass Drum (Turned on other side)
- Zildijan Absolute Rock Sticks
- Vater Hammer Sticks
7 Mick Thomson (Guitars)
- B.C. Rich Bich Guitar (Custom made)
- Rivera KnuckleHead Reverb EL34 amps
- Marshall JMP1 Tube Preamp
- Boss GX700 Effects Processor
- Mesa/Boogie Simulclass 2:95 power amp
- Randall Isolation Cab
- VHT Pitbull Ultra Lead Heads
- 400 watt Carvin cabinet
- Dunlop Jazz III picks
8 Corey Taylor (Vocals)
- Shure SM58 microphone
STORY BEHIND SLIPKNOT
Slipknot formed in the year of 1995 as a result of the work of Paul, Shawn and Anders Colsefni (ex-vocalist). (They had originally played with the idea of making a band as early as 1993 and even began writing songs; however the project fell through when Shawn became busy with his welding occupation.) These three along with guitarists Donnie Steele (ex- Body Pit guitarist) and Quan Nong began practising under the name of Meld. However, at some point Quan Nong left, this time is uncertain, but is expected to be following the first six practices due to his following of a more Alternative/Punk style. Following his departure the band started anew, with a project named, "The Pale Ones". During this period Shawn (a.k.a Clown) was the lead drummer.
Paul was determined to get Joey involved with his new project, despite failing to receive his interest in earlier projects such as Body Pit. Paul met up with Joey at Sinclair's where Joey worked nights, there he tempted Joey to watch rehearsals within Anders' basement. Joey reluctantly agreed and despite missing two rehearsals due to work priorities, eventually made it down to the basement to view a practice session. This basement, was "largely, open spaced", not only was the area so small and cramped but for soundproofing the members used carpet samples and scraps from a nearby pet grooming centre, these made the whole basement smell of Cat piss. The first song that Joey heard them play was a song known as "Slipknot", followed by "Gently" and "Fur". Joey soon realised that he had to be in this band and soon began to play the drums; pushing Shawn onto percussion. A band had formed.
Within the cramped basement new songs were being turned out by the minute, including titles such as "Killers Are Quiet", "Bitchslap", "Do Nothing", "Confessions", "Some Feel", "Part of Me" and "Tattered and Torn". Paul, Shawn and Joey also began to meet up at Sinclair's to discuss ideas and plans for the future. Here they planned everything, here they decided the rules that define the current Slipknot.
1. "We do not answer to anyone"
2. "We do not worry about trends"
3. "We play what we want"
4. "We would not allow people to have any sort of influence on the band"
Shawn and Joey also decided that the band would require three drummers to provide a hardcore audio assault. Shawn wanted a drummer to the left and right with one at the back controlling it all, creating a wall of power, a fist layer... . Joey plays the main set and as a result is the main drummer who holds the band together. Shawn is the "Total Power Drummer" and is all aggression. The third element of percussion was often performed by Anders. Within Sinclair's Shawn and Joey also realised that the band would need another guitarist. Josh formerly of Modifidious and Inveigh Catharsis was called and he soon added himself to the band. Now there were six.
Soon the band decided on a new title for themselves, they toyed with the name of "Pyg System" however agreed on the more simple name of "Slipknot", the title of their first song. The people of Des Moines knew that a new band was forming and they knew who was in it. However no one had heard or seen them. Soon a small performance was given, the band suited in Kiss styled makeup, fitting the music perfectly with the green glowing lights. This spawned the idea of the masks. This idea evolved and following discussions and Shawn turning up to a practice wearing his legendary Clown mask, the sextet decided almost unanimously, with the exception of Donnie, that masks should be worn. Joey came fully equipped with his moulded and expressionless Kabuki Mask and despite difficulty within practices the idea took off, the whole anti-image appearance which fitted so well with their rule of ignoring trends had a great appeal.
Soon Shawn contacted Mike Lawyer, due to an interest in recording some studio work. Mike got an engineer/producer of his named Sean Mcmahon to meet up with them during a practice session. Sean, not only stunned by the wolf skin attire of lead singer Anders, was also blown away by the sheer sound of Slipknot. The band soon started work on their first project, dubbed, MFKR. "Mate Feed Kill Repeat". The band grabbed every available moment to practice, perform and record within the SR Audio Studios, customising the room with posters, lights and many other objects. Many happenings occurred around this studio, including the drawing of corpses on the road outside and a performance in the nude by Joey.
Sean Mcmahon: "I was contacted by former members of a band called Body Pit to check out their new band at their rehearsal space. I did. I was Floored! That band was Slipknot."
Within February of 1996 a great change occurred within Donnie Steele; he found God. He realised that he could not be within such a band as Slipknot with the beliefs he held and as a result withdrew himself from the group, the others respecting his descision. At this crucial point in time a new member was called up; a former member of Joey's band Modifidious, his name was Craig. He had been recommended by Jordison. During his arrival the MFKR album was already in its mixing stages. The mixing of MFKR was anything but smooth. Each song being remixed many times. Strain was added by different view that each member held and things often got intense. Not only was their problems with the mixing but the band was also unhappy with the mastering that was done on the CD, hence they insisted that Sean should do it.
Slipknot's first major show in which they would unveil themselves to the people of Des Moines became booked for the 4th April 1996 at the locally known meeting place pronounced, "The Safari". On the day's arrival the room was packed with 200 people. The band arrived in Joey's car and each member sported their individual garments. Paul with a wore wrapped around his head, weaving in and out of his piercings, Josh showing off an executioners hood while Craig had placed pantyhose on his head. Joey and Shawn each used the masks they had always worn, the Clown and Kabuki. Before the band began to play Joey began to incessantly shout, "I need a little Christmas in my drink" repeatedly with each new phrase increasing in volume, energy and power. The band then slammed into their debut song, "Slipknot". By Slipknot's second performance at the club Paul had found a new "Pig" mask. Within this show the band played with another band named, "Stone Sour", Corey Taylor was the lead singer. The band played a total of seven shows at the club in one month alone.
The band carried on playing their shows which were much more "insane" than we see these days (taming of the media,etc...), rather than the same uniform jumpsuits and regular masks the band played in different things, for example Shawn rented out a large purple "Barney" suit and others wore Nun dresses and even ballroom dresses or a Little Bo Peep outfit. The shows were really dark, underground and scary however they still carried an element of humour. The shows would start with strobe lights flashing and a sample from Craig, usually of a mad laugh and "ice cream" man chimes, Shawn would drop a power saw to create a series of sparks to fly over the crowd.
Joey still felt that the band was incomplete. He wanted more; a different sound and a greater variety. Craig was promptly shifted onto samples, leaving an empty vacancy. Hence Mick arrived.
MFKR was eventually finished on Halloween, 1996. The party had began and 400 people turnt up.
The album was sent out to many people and a person named Sophia at a local station managed to hear it and liked it. This lead to the arrangement of Slipknot's appearance in the local battle of the band's contest. The on air tournament that spanned across several weeks soon began with the individual heats. Slipknot faced Corey's band; Stone Sour - they won. Slipknot also defeated "Maelstrom" and "Black Caesar" who came second. Slipknot conquered all. This was one of the band's highlights that fuelled them to their current stardom. The money from the win helped fund the heavily in debt band's new projects and demos.
By this time several record companies had investigated the band, one of these being Roadrunner who felt that they should not pick up Slipknot due to their thought that the vocalist required more melody. This rejection continued and no where could they be signed. Sophia became their first manager due to her contacts and love for this new band.
Things then seemed to get worse; Shawn bought the Safari which took time away from the band despite being a good investment. The band could no longer play in Anders' basement and things were falling apart. There were often tensions between Joey and Shawn and "Slipknot" had no where to play. However they still managed to make it onto the bill for the local "Dotfest" in June. There they played to the largest crowd in their history, a crowd of 12 000, containing many industry people. Not only was the sound dodgy and kept going out but the crowd began to throw chicken bones on stage. At the show Slipknot came out throwing Tampons into the crowd and had several "gimps". This was the first and last time for the "gimps". The gimps were Frank with a gas mask, Lanny with tribal markings in liquid latex, Greg covered with liquid latex and a ball gag in his mouth and Greg's friend Slick Rick in a latex hood. Slipknot had the original idea of having a professional stunt man, Rick, come out dressed as Shawn and then Shawn would come out and set him on fire. They had all the things to do it (for a long time it set in the cooler at Safari) but the city would not issue the permits to perform it so the event had to be abandoned. The set ended with them being cut off and an almost riot breaking out as Andy cut open his arms and tossed CDs over the fence to the fans. Joey quit. But he reconsidered and came back. Some good things did come out of this though, their performance left a mark, they made new fans and most importantly they discovered Sid Wilson (even though they did not speak to him).
Slipknot looked for the success they were not getting and decided to enlist Corey Taylor of rival band Stone Sour, to join the line up. Joey, Shawn and Mick confronted him with the an ultimatum at his work place, "The Adult Emporium". They said, "Join the band or we will kick your ass!" Slipknot provided an opportunity not present in Stone Sour; the band could go places. The music over image policy also appealed. Corey began practising with the band and the first lyrics he wrote were to be used in the song, "Me Inside". This was a very experimental move and everyone was wondering how it would turn out. This change resulted in Anders being pushed back to percussion and back up vocals. Soon this new breed of the Knot performed a show; it turned out it was a charity event for a local hospital. The Safari was packed to the brim. Corey came out wearing a large amount of makeup that gave a dark appearance, this was added to by two latex crosses marked over his eyes. Despite this excitement the show was riddled with technical problems and was the show that resulted in Joey's nickname, "Superball".
Their next show was on 17th September, again at the Safari. This show was a great improvement however nearly a year on from the MFKR release an announcement was to be made. Just before Slipknot were about to storm into their final song, "Scissors", Anders made an announcement, "This will be my last show" he stated. This stunned both band members and the audience. Following this sudden change the band returned to the studio to re-record the songs on their untitled second CD - minus Anders' vocals. Of these songs included, "Gently", "Do Nothing", "Slipknot", "Tattered and Torn", "Me Inside", "Carve", "Coleslaw", "Scissors", "Windows" and "May 17th" a song written by Shawn.
To cope with Ander's departure a new member was brought in, he was named Greg a.k.a Cuddles (a tattooist @ axiom piercing). Cuddles was extremely insane and very much like Slipknot's DJ, Sid. He would smash up the sets and even throw his drum kit into the crowd. Cuddles joined the band despite warnings from family and friends and he is also responsible for the tribal "S" tattoo on Anders' leg. Cuddles had previously drummed for the "Havenots" a band which Joey and Paul had been in. Cuddles is the naked guy in the MFKR inlet. Cuddles played his lst show in the Summer of 1998, he was the only member of Slipknot to be sacked, this was due to his lazy attitude towards the band. He moved to South Dakota and started up the tattoo parlour, "The Ultimate Prick", this has since been shut down. Following Cuddles' departure there was one show in Malibu which took place wile auditions were occurring, hence there was a replacement and that was Brandon, he played one show and wore the "liar" mask.
One night Joey and Shawn checked out a clan named "The Sound Proof Coalition" at the Safari containing the DJs, A-Rock, Loodachris, Phase II, Rek, Sub Two, Iniversoul and Starscream. Starscream, a.k.a Sid Wilson introduced himself to them and told them they rocked at Dotfest, Shawn said they needed a DJ, Sid said he was the man. Following pestering by Sid he was allowed to view a practice and following a session of head butting it was decided he was fit to be part of the group.
Auditions were being carried out for a Cuddles replacement, these auditions brought about a person named Chris Fehn, he had seen the band played and had previously asked to become a roadie. He was soon added to the group, despite being put through a vigourous ordeal. This included his initiation test commonly known as the secret track on the self titled album.
Soon after this event Slipknot came up with the barcode, number and coverall ideas. A new song was also written; it was called, "Spit it Out". Slipknot now had offers flying in from mainly internet reports. However the band really wanted Ross Robinson to work on the project and he was contacted through Sophia. Robinson checked out the demo tape and flew into Des Moines to view a practice session and a live show. After watching the practice (which very few are aloud to see) he knew the band would go far. Ross not only felt the vide of the music but the vide of the passion; a passion he himself had felt. This was the beginning of a wonderful creation. He then saw Slipknot perform live at the Safari on 2nd February 1998. Word soon got back to Slipknot that he was willing to record the album, label or not. Ross later signed them onto his own label, "I am recordings". Ross then got in touch with Roadrunner and the band publicly signed to Roadrunner Records outside of the Axion Studio (tattoo parlour) in Des Moines. Following a call on the 23rd September, Slipknot drove out to LA to begin the recording of their album. The band practised solid for a week and soon began the recording that left the band sore. They then travelled upto the legendary Indigo Ranch to carry on the recording. To add a necessary expression to this music, Ross got Corey to explain his lyrics to all the other members, so they could "feel it". This took the music to a higher level; it made it raw expression and emotion, it added an element not seen before.
Despite the many changes that had occurred within the Knot, another was to occur. This time it was Josh's time for departure, he left due to "family life" and would not have been able to cope with the extensive touring that lay ahead. The band knew instantly who they wanted to replace him, the Atomic Opera star, Jim Root. Jim originally said no to the offer due to his desire to stay true to the band he was currently working in. However after a bad show
Paul was determined to get Joey involved with his new project, despite failing to receive his interest in earlier projects such as Body Pit. Paul met up with Joey at Sinclair's where Joey worked nights, there he tempted Joey to watch rehearsals within Anders' basement. Joey reluctantly agreed and despite missing two rehearsals due to work priorities, eventually made it down to the basement to view a practice session. This basement, was "largely, open spaced", not only was the area so small and cramped but for soundproofing the members used carpet samples and scraps from a nearby pet grooming centre, these made the whole basement smell of Cat piss. The first song that Joey heard them play was a song known as "Slipknot", followed by "Gently" and "Fur". Joey soon realised that he had to be in this band and soon began to play the drums; pushing Shawn onto percussion. A band had formed.
Within the cramped basement new songs were being turned out by the minute, including titles such as "Killers Are Quiet", "Bitchslap", "Do Nothing", "Confessions", "Some Feel", "Part of Me" and "Tattered and Torn". Paul, Shawn and Joey also began to meet up at Sinclair's to discuss ideas and plans for the future. Here they planned everything, here they decided the rules that define the current Slipknot.
1. "We do not answer to anyone"
2. "We do not worry about trends"
3. "We play what we want"
4. "We would not allow people to have any sort of influence on the band"
Shawn and Joey also decided that the band would require three drummers to provide a hardcore audio assault. Shawn wanted a drummer to the left and right with one at the back controlling it all, creating a wall of power, a fist layer... . Joey plays the main set and as a result is the main drummer who holds the band together. Shawn is the "Total Power Drummer" and is all aggression. The third element of percussion was often performed by Anders. Within Sinclair's Shawn and Joey also realised that the band would need another guitarist. Josh formerly of Modifidious and Inveigh Catharsis was called and he soon added himself to the band. Now there were six.
Soon the band decided on a new title for themselves, they toyed with the name of "Pyg System" however agreed on the more simple name of "Slipknot", the title of their first song. The people of Des Moines knew that a new band was forming and they knew who was in it. However no one had heard or seen them. Soon a small performance was given, the band suited in Kiss styled makeup, fitting the music perfectly with the green glowing lights. This spawned the idea of the masks. This idea evolved and following discussions and Shawn turning up to a practice wearing his legendary Clown mask, the sextet decided almost unanimously, with the exception of Donnie, that masks should be worn. Joey came fully equipped with his moulded and expressionless Kabuki Mask and despite difficulty within practices the idea took off, the whole anti-image appearance which fitted so well with their rule of ignoring trends had a great appeal.
Soon Shawn contacted Mike Lawyer, due to an interest in recording some studio work. Mike got an engineer/producer of his named Sean Mcmahon to meet up with them during a practice session. Sean, not only stunned by the wolf skin attire of lead singer Anders, was also blown away by the sheer sound of Slipknot. The band soon started work on their first project, dubbed, MFKR. "Mate Feed Kill Repeat". The band grabbed every available moment to practice, perform and record within the SR Audio Studios, customising the room with posters, lights and many other objects. Many happenings occurred around this studio, including the drawing of corpses on the road outside and a performance in the nude by Joey.
Sean Mcmahon: "I was contacted by former members of a band called Body Pit to check out their new band at their rehearsal space. I did. I was Floored! That band was Slipknot."
Within February of 1996 a great change occurred within Donnie Steele; he found God. He realised that he could not be within such a band as Slipknot with the beliefs he held and as a result withdrew himself from the group, the others respecting his descision. At this crucial point in time a new member was called up; a former member of Joey's band Modifidious, his name was Craig. He had been recommended by Jordison. During his arrival the MFKR album was already in its mixing stages. The mixing of MFKR was anything but smooth. Each song being remixed many times. Strain was added by different view that each member held and things often got intense. Not only was their problems with the mixing but the band was also unhappy with the mastering that was done on the CD, hence they insisted that Sean should do it.
Slipknot's first major show in which they would unveil themselves to the people of Des Moines became booked for the 4th April 1996 at the locally known meeting place pronounced, "The Safari". On the day's arrival the room was packed with 200 people. The band arrived in Joey's car and each member sported their individual garments. Paul with a wore wrapped around his head, weaving in and out of his piercings, Josh showing off an executioners hood while Craig had placed pantyhose on his head. Joey and Shawn each used the masks they had always worn, the Clown and Kabuki. Before the band began to play Joey began to incessantly shout, "I need a little Christmas in my drink" repeatedly with each new phrase increasing in volume, energy and power. The band then slammed into their debut song, "Slipknot". By Slipknot's second performance at the club Paul had found a new "Pig" mask. Within this show the band played with another band named, "Stone Sour", Corey Taylor was the lead singer. The band played a total of seven shows at the club in one month alone.
The band carried on playing their shows which were much more "insane" than we see these days (taming of the media,etc...), rather than the same uniform jumpsuits and regular masks the band played in different things, for example Shawn rented out a large purple "Barney" suit and others wore Nun dresses and even ballroom dresses or a Little Bo Peep outfit. The shows were really dark, underground and scary however they still carried an element of humour. The shows would start with strobe lights flashing and a sample from Craig, usually of a mad laugh and "ice cream" man chimes, Shawn would drop a power saw to create a series of sparks to fly over the crowd.
Joey still felt that the band was incomplete. He wanted more; a different sound and a greater variety. Craig was promptly shifted onto samples, leaving an empty vacancy. Hence Mick arrived.
MFKR was eventually finished on Halloween, 1996. The party had began and 400 people turnt up.
The album was sent out to many people and a person named Sophia at a local station managed to hear it and liked it. This lead to the arrangement of Slipknot's appearance in the local battle of the band's contest. The on air tournament that spanned across several weeks soon began with the individual heats. Slipknot faced Corey's band; Stone Sour - they won. Slipknot also defeated "Maelstrom" and "Black Caesar" who came second. Slipknot conquered all. This was one of the band's highlights that fuelled them to their current stardom. The money from the win helped fund the heavily in debt band's new projects and demos.
By this time several record companies had investigated the band, one of these being Roadrunner who felt that they should not pick up Slipknot due to their thought that the vocalist required more melody. This rejection continued and no where could they be signed. Sophia became their first manager due to her contacts and love for this new band.
Things then seemed to get worse; Shawn bought the Safari which took time away from the band despite being a good investment. The band could no longer play in Anders' basement and things were falling apart. There were often tensions between Joey and Shawn and "Slipknot" had no where to play. However they still managed to make it onto the bill for the local "Dotfest" in June. There they played to the largest crowd in their history, a crowd of 12 000, containing many industry people. Not only was the sound dodgy and kept going out but the crowd began to throw chicken bones on stage. At the show Slipknot came out throwing Tampons into the crowd and had several "gimps". This was the first and last time for the "gimps". The gimps were Frank with a gas mask, Lanny with tribal markings in liquid latex, Greg covered with liquid latex and a ball gag in his mouth and Greg's friend Slick Rick in a latex hood. Slipknot had the original idea of having a professional stunt man, Rick, come out dressed as Shawn and then Shawn would come out and set him on fire. They had all the things to do it (for a long time it set in the cooler at Safari) but the city would not issue the permits to perform it so the event had to be abandoned. The set ended with them being cut off and an almost riot breaking out as Andy cut open his arms and tossed CDs over the fence to the fans. Joey quit. But he reconsidered and came back. Some good things did come out of this though, their performance left a mark, they made new fans and most importantly they discovered Sid Wilson (even though they did not speak to him).
Slipknot looked for the success they were not getting and decided to enlist Corey Taylor of rival band Stone Sour, to join the line up. Joey, Shawn and Mick confronted him with the an ultimatum at his work place, "The Adult Emporium". They said, "Join the band or we will kick your ass!" Slipknot provided an opportunity not present in Stone Sour; the band could go places. The music over image policy also appealed. Corey began practising with the band and the first lyrics he wrote were to be used in the song, "Me Inside". This was a very experimental move and everyone was wondering how it would turn out. This change resulted in Anders being pushed back to percussion and back up vocals. Soon this new breed of the Knot performed a show; it turned out it was a charity event for a local hospital. The Safari was packed to the brim. Corey came out wearing a large amount of makeup that gave a dark appearance, this was added to by two latex crosses marked over his eyes. Despite this excitement the show was riddled with technical problems and was the show that resulted in Joey's nickname, "Superball".
Their next show was on 17th September, again at the Safari. This show was a great improvement however nearly a year on from the MFKR release an announcement was to be made. Just before Slipknot were about to storm into their final song, "Scissors", Anders made an announcement, "This will be my last show" he stated. This stunned both band members and the audience. Following this sudden change the band returned to the studio to re-record the songs on their untitled second CD - minus Anders' vocals. Of these songs included, "Gently", "Do Nothing", "Slipknot", "Tattered and Torn", "Me Inside", "Carve", "Coleslaw", "Scissors", "Windows" and "May 17th" a song written by Shawn.
To cope with Ander's departure a new member was brought in, he was named Greg a.k.a Cuddles (a tattooist @ axiom piercing). Cuddles was extremely insane and very much like Slipknot's DJ, Sid. He would smash up the sets and even throw his drum kit into the crowd. Cuddles joined the band despite warnings from family and friends and he is also responsible for the tribal "S" tattoo on Anders' leg. Cuddles had previously drummed for the "Havenots" a band which Joey and Paul had been in. Cuddles is the naked guy in the MFKR inlet. Cuddles played his lst show in the Summer of 1998, he was the only member of Slipknot to be sacked, this was due to his lazy attitude towards the band. He moved to South Dakota and started up the tattoo parlour, "The Ultimate Prick", this has since been shut down. Following Cuddles' departure there was one show in Malibu which took place wile auditions were occurring, hence there was a replacement and that was Brandon, he played one show and wore the "liar" mask.
One night Joey and Shawn checked out a clan named "The Sound Proof Coalition" at the Safari containing the DJs, A-Rock, Loodachris, Phase II, Rek, Sub Two, Iniversoul and Starscream. Starscream, a.k.a Sid Wilson introduced himself to them and told them they rocked at Dotfest, Shawn said they needed a DJ, Sid said he was the man. Following pestering by Sid he was allowed to view a practice and following a session of head butting it was decided he was fit to be part of the group.
Auditions were being carried out for a Cuddles replacement, these auditions brought about a person named Chris Fehn, he had seen the band played and had previously asked to become a roadie. He was soon added to the group, despite being put through a vigourous ordeal. This included his initiation test commonly known as the secret track on the self titled album.
Soon after this event Slipknot came up with the barcode, number and coverall ideas. A new song was also written; it was called, "Spit it Out". Slipknot now had offers flying in from mainly internet reports. However the band really wanted Ross Robinson to work on the project and he was contacted through Sophia. Robinson checked out the demo tape and flew into Des Moines to view a practice session and a live show. After watching the practice (which very few are aloud to see) he knew the band would go far. Ross not only felt the vide of the music but the vide of the passion; a passion he himself had felt. This was the beginning of a wonderful creation. He then saw Slipknot perform live at the Safari on 2nd February 1998. Word soon got back to Slipknot that he was willing to record the album, label or not. Ross later signed them onto his own label, "I am recordings". Ross then got in touch with Roadrunner and the band publicly signed to Roadrunner Records outside of the Axion Studio (tattoo parlour) in Des Moines. Following a call on the 23rd September, Slipknot drove out to LA to begin the recording of their album. The band practised solid for a week and soon began the recording that left the band sore. They then travelled upto the legendary Indigo Ranch to carry on the recording. To add a necessary expression to this music, Ross got Corey to explain his lyrics to all the other members, so they could "feel it". This took the music to a higher level; it made it raw expression and emotion, it added an element not seen before.
Despite the many changes that had occurred within the Knot, another was to occur. This time it was Josh's time for departure, he left due to "family life" and would not have been able to cope with the extensive touring that lay ahead. The band knew instantly who they wanted to replace him, the Atomic Opera star, Jim Root. Jim originally said no to the offer due to his desire to stay true to the band he was currently working in. However after a bad show
PROFILES
SID WILSON
Nicknamed "Monkeyboy" ("Rat Boy") 15/03/1978 Sid is a sick son of a Bitch. He's really sarcastic, and he claims he suffers from 'organic brain syndrome'. Sid and Shawn (6) maintain a rivalry, which usually breaks out as violence on stage. Sid is definitely one of the craziest people in the band, he has stage dived from a 2 storey balcony. Sid is the youngest of the band, Joey describes Sid as a "lady's man" Sid's family is from England. Sid is the crowd surfer of the band. He's not the only member that does, but he'll do some crazy shit.
Sid was born with 6 fingers on each hand, they were amputated at birth, Shawn: "They cut off his goddamn fingers cos society doesn't like them. Think what a DJ he coulda been with those extra fingers! We've been deprived of that cos of those motherfuckers!"
Rumour: When asked what hobbies he had he responded: "snowboarding, sculpting with clay and cooking."
Band he would most like to play/tour with: "It wouldn't go in with the genre of Slipknot, but me personally, it would be the Beastie Boys. At the point where I got into DJing, break dancing and hip hop, the Beastie Boys were a big part of that . I have always listened to them."
Sid's musical Influences:
1. Grandmaster Flash
2. DJ Jazzy Jeff
3. DJ Cash Plenty
4. Invisible Scratch Pickles Crew
5. Executioners (formerly the X-Men)
6. S.P.C. (scroll down for more about SPC)
Favourites:
Best Concert: The first time I saw Slipknot. I was going to try out for the band, so I went to a show here in Des Moines, Iowa. This was a few years ago. When I saw them, I knew I had to be in this band.
First Concert: When I was three years old, my family went to the Iowa State Fair and saw Sheena Easton.
Performance: Most recently was our last London show. They had this huge balcony twenty-five feet high. I stood on top of the railing and jumped off backwards with my body straight and my arms out to the side. The crowd caught me.
Moment in the studio: I think Purity. There was a lot of emotion, vibing up each other, and taking it to the next level. It just kind of happened.
Movies:
1. Drunken Master 2
2. Black Mask
3. Man on the Moon
4. Evil Dead
5. Evil Dead 2
6. Army of Darkness
7. Phantasm
Current Albums:
1. Hed: Drool
2. Nine Inch Nails: The Fragile
Soundtracks:
1. Belly
2. Black Mask
Quote - "Wearing this mask prevents the oxygen from going to my skull. I get hallucinations and stuff. Half the time, I don't know what's going on around me. Its up to the clown to intimidate me and keep me in line."
"My name's Sid, I'm the DJ guy, I'm the filth epitome, #0"
Rumour: On a Howard Stern show, Sid wanked in the corner of the room - make of it what you will.
Mask - Sid wears a variety of gas masks and has around 8 which all have names. MEANING: "That's too much of a deeper conversation to get into. You need much more time to ask me a question like that, Another time."
INSTRUMENT:
2 Technics SL1200MKII Turntables
Sony MDR-V700DJ Headphones
Rane 10" TTM4 mixer / Roland DJ 1000 10" mixer
Shure M447 Cartridges (needles)
Sid uses many tracks in songs from the UK DJ, "Tricky" (unconfirmed).
Sid's work as DJ Starscream: Sid also goes by the name of "DJ Starscream" , He had previously released "Back 2 Da Jungle", Volumes 1 to 3 and he also did some work with other DJs. Sid is currently working on a new CD, the publisher was going to be 1500 records however they have gone out of business and thus the CD has been postponed BUT WILL be released through Sound Proof Coalition in the future, he will be working on this during the Ozzfest tour 2001 of Europe and the US. There is also a rumour that Sid has been talking to "Necro" form Brooklyn NY about rapping on his solo album which is due for release towards the end of the year. There may also be a guest appearance by B-Real of Cypress Hill but as of yet this is unconfirmed; it is in the planning stages.
Before slipknot, Sid was a DJ at raves and clubs, etc..., he has formed a group of midwest American DJs called "Sound Proof Coalition" - A-Rock, Loodachris, Phase II, Rek, Sub Two, Iniversoul and Starscream (a.k.a Sid).
Sid was born with 6 fingers on each hand, they were amputated at birth, Shawn: "They cut off his goddamn fingers cos society doesn't like them. Think what a DJ he coulda been with those extra fingers! We've been deprived of that cos of those motherfuckers!"
Rumour: When asked what hobbies he had he responded: "snowboarding, sculpting with clay and cooking."
Band he would most like to play/tour with: "It wouldn't go in with the genre of Slipknot, but me personally, it would be the Beastie Boys. At the point where I got into DJing, break dancing and hip hop, the Beastie Boys were a big part of that . I have always listened to them."
Sid's musical Influences:
1. Grandmaster Flash
2. DJ Jazzy Jeff
3. DJ Cash Plenty
4. Invisible Scratch Pickles Crew
5. Executioners (formerly the X-Men)
6. S.P.C. (scroll down for more about SPC)
Favourites:
Best Concert: The first time I saw Slipknot. I was going to try out for the band, so I went to a show here in Des Moines, Iowa. This was a few years ago. When I saw them, I knew I had to be in this band.
First Concert: When I was three years old, my family went to the Iowa State Fair and saw Sheena Easton.
Performance: Most recently was our last London show. They had this huge balcony twenty-five feet high. I stood on top of the railing and jumped off backwards with my body straight and my arms out to the side. The crowd caught me.
Moment in the studio: I think Purity. There was a lot of emotion, vibing up each other, and taking it to the next level. It just kind of happened.
Movies:
1. Drunken Master 2
2. Black Mask
3. Man on the Moon
4. Evil Dead
5. Evil Dead 2
6. Army of Darkness
7. Phantasm
Current Albums:
1. Hed: Drool
2. Nine Inch Nails: The Fragile
Soundtracks:
1. Belly
2. Black Mask
Quote - "Wearing this mask prevents the oxygen from going to my skull. I get hallucinations and stuff. Half the time, I don't know what's going on around me. Its up to the clown to intimidate me and keep me in line."
"My name's Sid, I'm the DJ guy, I'm the filth epitome, #0"
Rumour: On a Howard Stern show, Sid wanked in the corner of the room - make of it what you will.
Mask - Sid wears a variety of gas masks and has around 8 which all have names. MEANING: "That's too much of a deeper conversation to get into. You need much more time to ask me a question like that, Another time."
INSTRUMENT:
2 Technics SL1200MKII Turntables
Sony MDR-V700DJ Headphones
Rane 10" TTM4 mixer / Roland DJ 1000 10" mixer
Shure M447 Cartridges (needles)
Sid uses many tracks in songs from the UK DJ, "Tricky" (unconfirmed).
Sid's work as DJ Starscream: Sid also goes by the name of "DJ Starscream" , He had previously released "Back 2 Da Jungle", Volumes 1 to 3 and he also did some work with other DJs. Sid is currently working on a new CD, the publisher was going to be 1500 records however they have gone out of business and thus the CD has been postponed BUT WILL be released through Sound Proof Coalition in the future, he will be working on this during the Ozzfest tour 2001 of Europe and the US. There is also a rumour that Sid has been talking to "Necro" form Brooklyn NY about rapping on his solo album which is due for release towards the end of the year. There may also be a guest appearance by B-Real of Cypress Hill but as of yet this is unconfirmed; it is in the planning stages.
Before slipknot, Sid was a DJ at raves and clubs, etc..., he has formed a group of midwest American DJs called "Sound Proof Coalition" - A-Rock, Loodachris, Phase II, Rek, Sub Two, Iniversoul and Starscream (a.k.a Sid).
JOEY JORDINSON
Nickname: Superball April 26, 1975
His real name is Nathan Jonas Jordison. He says he's 5'4 but in actual fact he is 5'3. He is an UNBELIEVABLE drummer and he can also play guitar. He's talkative, diminutive, and just really down to Earth. He's the shortest one of the lot and is also one of the original members of Slipknot. Before joining he was part of the band Anal Blast. Joey created the now commonly used term of maggot and apparently he also has an obsession with Fiona Apple. Joey has written many songs, one of them being Scissors which appeared on the self-titled album, which was consequently mixed by him as well. Joey attained the nickname "Superball" after one show that Slipknot played crap in, so he got mad and started "bouncing around the room" Joey worked at a record store called "Music Land" and a gas station called "Sinclair's". He worked at the garage four nights a week for 10 hours after being tempted by a friend, to get a job their. Although receiving poor grades in school due to a devotion to music, he eventually graduated with honours.
Joey likes to wear a black hood that says "Little People Kill People". The tribal "S" that has originated as their logo was originally drawn by Joey, it was later used as a tattoo for Anders and then got promoted to a Slipknot emblem. Joey also drew the main Slipknot logo, and the large "K" and "T" may come from the fact that at that time he was a huge KoRn fan. Joey is also really into a lot of Death Metal bands and was a huge fan of "Kiss" seeing them as larger than life super heroes, the other band he loved was "Black Sabbath". Joey used to cut the arms and legs off of his coveralls, making it a tad easier to beat on things.
Joey also helps to produce the Slipknot records and has also helped with a remix of the Marilyn Manson track, "Fight Song", which he worked on with producer Sean McMahon.
At Slipknot's first show, prior to the performance; to get attention Joey stood on the stage and shouted, "I need a little Christmas in my drink", over and over.
Quote - "Ross (Robinson) is insane! Once, when we were recording here, he threw a potted plant at me. It exploded on the wall over my head and the dirt went in my mouth. It was awesome."
Hobbies: "It is pretty much covered by music 24/7. Aside from that, maybe video games, sleeping and sex. "
Mask - Joey wears an expressionless Japanese ""kabuki" mask that is now marked up with black + red paint for a darker look. He got the idea when one night (Halloween, mid 80s) his mum was waiting up for him and we he came home trashed , hiding behind the door was his mum in a robe with this Kabuki mask on, he says it scared the fuck out of him. MEANING: "It's open ended and it's got so many different meanings that you can't just pin point, stereotype or pigeon hole. It could be love, beauty, hate, disgust - it's all that stuff in one!"
Current Side Project: His side project was originally The Rejects, but the band underwent a 'reshuffle' and is now called 'The Murderdolls'. They have signed to the Roadrunner Records label and their new album is a called, 'Right to remain Violent'.
Download a sample track here: Murderdolls - Dead In Hollywood
What exact event spurred Joey onto his love for metal? Joey started his passion in 1982 at the age of six, having seen a news report stating that a metal star had bitten the head off of a bat the night before. "I immediately thought that Ozzy ruled". Soon after he bought the "Blizzard of Oz" album and the Sickness had started. "It hasn't left me to this day, It was meant to be. It was almost like Ozzy bit the head off a bat to pass the torch way early on, to another sick band."
Joey's First Drumkit: He got this in 5th grade, having previously played guitar in some old primary school bands. The drum set came to him as a surprise gift from his parents; they had asked him to go into the basement in search of an "Elton John" tape, to Joey's astonishment within the basement he found a fully set up drum kit.
INSTRUMENT:
Old Setup:
Drums: OCDP (Acrylic or Maple)
7x8 Rack Tom
8x10 Rack Tom
9x12 Rack Tom
14x14 Floor Tom (On His Left Side)
16x16 Floor Tom
18x18 Floor Tom
20x22 Bass Drums
7x12 30-Ply Snare Drum
Cymbals:
Paiste Rude 14" Crash/Ride
Paiste Rude 14" Hi-Hats
Paiste Rude 16" Crash/Ride
Paiste Rude 18" Crash/Ride
Paiste Rude 10" Splash (Inverted)
Paiste Rude 20" Power Ride
Paiste Rude 20" China
Paiste Rude 20" Ride/Crash
Hardware:
Tama Rack and Stands
Tama Iron Cobra Power Glide Pedals (Tensioned Very High)
Accesories/Heads:
Easton AHEAD Sticks
Remo Heads
New Setup:
Pearl Export MX
Color: #31 Jet Black with black hardware
- 22x18 bass drums x 2
- 8x8 tom
- 10x8 tom
- 12x9 tom
- 13x11 tom
- 14x12 tom
- 16x16 floor tom
- 18x16 floor tom
- 14x5.5 snare drum
- DR503 drum rack
- DR501 front bar
- RJ50 mini-expansion bar
- PC50 pipe clamps x12
- CH88 cymbal holders x 8
- CH80 cymbal holders x 8
- CH88L cymbal holder
- TH88 tom holder
- TH88S tom holders x 5
- H2000 hi-hat stand
- D150 Roadster throne
- S2000 snare stand
- P2000C drum pedals x 2
- Easton AHEAD Sticks
- Remo Heads
- Tama Iron Cobra Power Glide Pedals
Cymbals
- Paiste Rude 14" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 14" Hi-Hats
- Paiste Rude 16" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 18" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 10" Splash (Inverted)
- Paiste Rude 20" Power Ride
- Paiste Rude 20" China
- Paiste Rude 20" Ride/Crash
"Thing is with Joey is that he uses so many different drums and cymbals all the time it is near impossible to say what he is using at one time. I've seen him with at least five different kits and he has used Sabian, Zildijan and Paiste cymbals. I know that Shawn made their drum stands though, not the actual drums."
Bands: In his freshman year, in Waukee High; Joey was part of a band named, "Avanga". However due to a lack of motivation from other members, Joey looked elsewhere - Music was his only escape. Joey soon started a new band with neighbour Tim, "Modifidious". It was a "speed-metal-thrash" band and 15 songs were written in quick succession. Soon a bassist, Ryan, was found along with a guitarist named Jay (formerly of Avanga). The band, with new guitarist Bruce, had their headlining slot as a support to Jim's band, "Atomic opera" at the Runway. Bruce soon left Modifidious to join Atomic Opera and as a result a new guitarist was required, he arrived through Ryan. His name was Craig. Then another drop out came to Joey's band; Tim left in the summer of '92. Josh soon left his band to join Modifidious as a vocalist and filling Tim's spot.
This new line up soon put out a quick demo which was recorded within Joey's basement and mixed in Craig's house. It held the name of, "Visceral". Following this demo in 1993, the band played a few shows with a band that Shawn was in called, "Heads on the Wall". This was followed by another demo, "Mud Fuschia" and later a CD, "Sprawl". By this CD, Joey claimed the band was, "Kings of Des Moines", pulling up to 200 people per show and playing lots of performances shows.
However the band began to go down hill with the new grunge wave and loosing popularity of Thrash opposed to Death Metal. The new Des Moines band had become Body Pit, Paul's new band. Due to a lack of interest the band broke up in 1995. For a while, Joey played guitar in the band "The Rejects" with head lining vocalist nicknamed, "Dizzy".
Joey also played in a band called, "Anal Blast" however Joey did not leave his band, Modifidious for this and it was deemed more of a side project.
Joey was tempted to join Slipknot by Paul. At this time the project was called "The Pale Ones" and, Anders, Shawn, Donnie and of course Paul were already within the group - practising in Anders' basement. The first songs Joey heard them play were, "Slipknot", "Gently" and "Fur".
Modifidious - Joey - Drums - Josh - Vocals/guitars - Craig- Guitars
tracks by Modifidious:
Visceral:
Sprawl
Drown
Into a Shadow
Ritual Circle
Mud Fuchsia:
Virus 808/Fist
Henry
Everything
Drop
His real name is Nathan Jonas Jordison. He says he's 5'4 but in actual fact he is 5'3. He is an UNBELIEVABLE drummer and he can also play guitar. He's talkative, diminutive, and just really down to Earth. He's the shortest one of the lot and is also one of the original members of Slipknot. Before joining he was part of the band Anal Blast. Joey created the now commonly used term of maggot and apparently he also has an obsession with Fiona Apple. Joey has written many songs, one of them being Scissors which appeared on the self-titled album, which was consequently mixed by him as well. Joey attained the nickname "Superball" after one show that Slipknot played crap in, so he got mad and started "bouncing around the room" Joey worked at a record store called "Music Land" and a gas station called "Sinclair's". He worked at the garage four nights a week for 10 hours after being tempted by a friend, to get a job their. Although receiving poor grades in school due to a devotion to music, he eventually graduated with honours.
Joey likes to wear a black hood that says "Little People Kill People". The tribal "S" that has originated as their logo was originally drawn by Joey, it was later used as a tattoo for Anders and then got promoted to a Slipknot emblem. Joey also drew the main Slipknot logo, and the large "K" and "T" may come from the fact that at that time he was a huge KoRn fan. Joey is also really into a lot of Death Metal bands and was a huge fan of "Kiss" seeing them as larger than life super heroes, the other band he loved was "Black Sabbath". Joey used to cut the arms and legs off of his coveralls, making it a tad easier to beat on things.
Joey also helps to produce the Slipknot records and has also helped with a remix of the Marilyn Manson track, "Fight Song", which he worked on with producer Sean McMahon.
At Slipknot's first show, prior to the performance; to get attention Joey stood on the stage and shouted, "I need a little Christmas in my drink", over and over.
Quote - "Ross (Robinson) is insane! Once, when we were recording here, he threw a potted plant at me. It exploded on the wall over my head and the dirt went in my mouth. It was awesome."
Hobbies: "It is pretty much covered by music 24/7. Aside from that, maybe video games, sleeping and sex. "
Mask - Joey wears an expressionless Japanese ""kabuki" mask that is now marked up with black + red paint for a darker look. He got the idea when one night (Halloween, mid 80s) his mum was waiting up for him and we he came home trashed , hiding behind the door was his mum in a robe with this Kabuki mask on, he says it scared the fuck out of him. MEANING: "It's open ended and it's got so many different meanings that you can't just pin point, stereotype or pigeon hole. It could be love, beauty, hate, disgust - it's all that stuff in one!"
Current Side Project: His side project was originally The Rejects, but the band underwent a 'reshuffle' and is now called 'The Murderdolls'. They have signed to the Roadrunner Records label and their new album is a called, 'Right to remain Violent'.
Download a sample track here: Murderdolls - Dead In Hollywood
What exact event spurred Joey onto his love for metal? Joey started his passion in 1982 at the age of six, having seen a news report stating that a metal star had bitten the head off of a bat the night before. "I immediately thought that Ozzy ruled". Soon after he bought the "Blizzard of Oz" album and the Sickness had started. "It hasn't left me to this day, It was meant to be. It was almost like Ozzy bit the head off a bat to pass the torch way early on, to another sick band."
Joey's First Drumkit: He got this in 5th grade, having previously played guitar in some old primary school bands. The drum set came to him as a surprise gift from his parents; they had asked him to go into the basement in search of an "Elton John" tape, to Joey's astonishment within the basement he found a fully set up drum kit.
INSTRUMENT:
Old Setup:
Drums: OCDP (Acrylic or Maple)
7x8 Rack Tom
8x10 Rack Tom
9x12 Rack Tom
14x14 Floor Tom (On His Left Side)
16x16 Floor Tom
18x18 Floor Tom
20x22 Bass Drums
7x12 30-Ply Snare Drum
Cymbals:
Paiste Rude 14" Crash/Ride
Paiste Rude 14" Hi-Hats
Paiste Rude 16" Crash/Ride
Paiste Rude 18" Crash/Ride
Paiste Rude 10" Splash (Inverted)
Paiste Rude 20" Power Ride
Paiste Rude 20" China
Paiste Rude 20" Ride/Crash
Hardware:
Tama Rack and Stands
Tama Iron Cobra Power Glide Pedals (Tensioned Very High)
Accesories/Heads:
Easton AHEAD Sticks
Remo Heads
New Setup:
Pearl Export MX
Color: #31 Jet Black with black hardware
- 22x18 bass drums x 2
- 8x8 tom
- 10x8 tom
- 12x9 tom
- 13x11 tom
- 14x12 tom
- 16x16 floor tom
- 18x16 floor tom
- 14x5.5 snare drum
- DR503 drum rack
- DR501 front bar
- RJ50 mini-expansion bar
- PC50 pipe clamps x12
- CH88 cymbal holders x 8
- CH80 cymbal holders x 8
- CH88L cymbal holder
- TH88 tom holder
- TH88S tom holders x 5
- H2000 hi-hat stand
- D150 Roadster throne
- S2000 snare stand
- P2000C drum pedals x 2
- Easton AHEAD Sticks
- Remo Heads
- Tama Iron Cobra Power Glide Pedals
Cymbals
- Paiste Rude 14" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 14" Hi-Hats
- Paiste Rude 16" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 18" Crash/Ride
- Paiste Rude 10" Splash (Inverted)
- Paiste Rude 20" Power Ride
- Paiste Rude 20" China
- Paiste Rude 20" Ride/Crash
"Thing is with Joey is that he uses so many different drums and cymbals all the time it is near impossible to say what he is using at one time. I've seen him with at least five different kits and he has used Sabian, Zildijan and Paiste cymbals. I know that Shawn made their drum stands though, not the actual drums."
Bands: In his freshman year, in Waukee High; Joey was part of a band named, "Avanga". However due to a lack of motivation from other members, Joey looked elsewhere - Music was his only escape. Joey soon started a new band with neighbour Tim, "Modifidious". It was a "speed-metal-thrash" band and 15 songs were written in quick succession. Soon a bassist, Ryan, was found along with a guitarist named Jay (formerly of Avanga). The band, with new guitarist Bruce, had their headlining slot as a support to Jim's band, "Atomic opera" at the Runway. Bruce soon left Modifidious to join Atomic Opera and as a result a new guitarist was required, he arrived through Ryan. His name was Craig. Then another drop out came to Joey's band; Tim left in the summer of '92. Josh soon left his band to join Modifidious as a vocalist and filling Tim's spot.
This new line up soon put out a quick demo which was recorded within Joey's basement and mixed in Craig's house. It held the name of, "Visceral". Following this demo in 1993, the band played a few shows with a band that Shawn was in called, "Heads on the Wall". This was followed by another demo, "Mud Fuschia" and later a CD, "Sprawl". By this CD, Joey claimed the band was, "Kings of Des Moines", pulling up to 200 people per show and playing lots of performances shows.
However the band began to go down hill with the new grunge wave and loosing popularity of Thrash opposed to Death Metal. The new Des Moines band had become Body Pit, Paul's new band. Due to a lack of interest the band broke up in 1995. For a while, Joey played guitar in the band "The Rejects" with head lining vocalist nicknamed, "Dizzy".
Joey also played in a band called, "Anal Blast" however Joey did not leave his band, Modifidious for this and it was deemed more of a side project.
Joey was tempted to join Slipknot by Paul. At this time the project was called "The Pale Ones" and, Anders, Shawn, Donnie and of course Paul were already within the group - practising in Anders' basement. The first songs Joey heard them play were, "Slipknot", "Gently" and "Fur".
Modifidious - Joey - Drums - Josh - Vocals/guitars - Craig- Guitars
tracks by Modifidious:
Visceral:
Sprawl
Drown
Into a Shadow
Ritual Circle
Mud Fuchsia:
Virus 808/Fist
Henry
Everything
Drop
PAUL GRAY
Nickname: Balls April 8, 1972
Paul is a cofounder of Slipknot with Shawn (6) and Anders. Seems to be a friendly person, with an indulgent personality. Paul was not born in Des Moines Iowa, unlike the rest of the band, he was born in LA and moved when he was young. Apparently he is half black and once burnt a picture of KoRn posing for Calvin Klein live on stage. He has appeared in bands such as Vexx, Body Pit, Anal Blast and Inveigh Catharsis all before Slipknot, he also made an appearance with Davo's band, "The Havenots".
Quote - "When we go to radio stations for interviews, we wear the masks and never fail to freak people out. Are the masks a fetish thing? I'm definitely into that stuff. Des Moines definitely has more than its fair share of freaks."
Mask - Paul wears a latex pig's face mask. MEANING: "Right now it represents breathing problems and it's somewhat more uncomfortable than the last ones"
INSTRUMENT:
Warwick Corvette Bass
Carvan Eden WT Head
Ampeg 8X10 Cab
Bands:
First band- 1989- 1991: VeXX
Josh from Slipknot was guitarist/singer
Paul from Slipknot was bassist Anders was drummer
Second band- 1991- 1993: Inveigh Catharsis Same line-up as above
However with a new wave of popularity in death metal, Paul formed a new band, named, Body Pit. In it came and began to take over, pushing bands such as Joey's, Modifidious, out of the picture. (See Joey's profile for M info). This band also employed the services of Mick Thompson. However despite this addition to the band, it soon broke up.
Third band- 1993- 1995: Body Pit
Mick: Guitar (Slipknot)
Donnie Steele (original Slipknot guitarist)
Danny Spain- drums (Deadfront)
Paul: Bass (Slipknot)
Anders: Vocals
Fourth band- 1994: Anal Blast
Paul: Bass
Joey: Drums
Fifth band- 1995- 2000: Slipknot
(Original Line-up)
Anders- vocals
Paul- bass
Shawn- drums
Donnie S.- guitars
Josh- guitars
Joey Jordison- drums
Paul is a cofounder of Slipknot with Shawn (6) and Anders. Seems to be a friendly person, with an indulgent personality. Paul was not born in Des Moines Iowa, unlike the rest of the band, he was born in LA and moved when he was young. Apparently he is half black and once burnt a picture of KoRn posing for Calvin Klein live on stage. He has appeared in bands such as Vexx, Body Pit, Anal Blast and Inveigh Catharsis all before Slipknot, he also made an appearance with Davo's band, "The Havenots".
Quote - "When we go to radio stations for interviews, we wear the masks and never fail to freak people out. Are the masks a fetish thing? I'm definitely into that stuff. Des Moines definitely has more than its fair share of freaks."
Mask - Paul wears a latex pig's face mask. MEANING: "Right now it represents breathing problems and it's somewhat more uncomfortable than the last ones"
INSTRUMENT:
Warwick Corvette Bass
Carvan Eden WT Head
Ampeg 8X10 Cab
Bands:
First band- 1989- 1991: VeXX
Josh from Slipknot was guitarist/singer
Paul from Slipknot was bassist Anders was drummer
Second band- 1991- 1993: Inveigh Catharsis Same line-up as above
However with a new wave of popularity in death metal, Paul formed a new band, named, Body Pit. In it came and began to take over, pushing bands such as Joey's, Modifidious, out of the picture. (See Joey's profile for M info). This band also employed the services of Mick Thompson. However despite this addition to the band, it soon broke up.
Third band- 1993- 1995: Body Pit
Mick: Guitar (Slipknot)
Donnie Steele (original Slipknot guitarist)
Danny Spain- drums (Deadfront)
Paul: Bass (Slipknot)
Anders: Vocals
Fourth band- 1994: Anal Blast
Paul: Bass
Joey: Drums
Fifth band- 1995- 2000: Slipknot
(Original Line-up)
Anders- vocals
Paul- bass
Shawn- drums
Donnie S.- guitars
Josh- guitars
Joey Jordison- drums
CHRIS FEHN
Nicknamed "Mr. Picklenose" February 24, 1972
Chris is known as the soft spoken joker of the band. I mean, really... how could he not be with that mask? Chris is the co-drummer and also the first percussionist. Chris is the comedian of the band and on the bonus tracks of the self titled album he can be heard puking (within his initiation test). Rolling Stone has described him as the most handsome and wholesome member of the band. Chris enjoys "jacking off" his nose, he can be seen doing this in not only the Spit it Out video but also in many interviews and on Conan O'Brien. There are also rumours that Chris is the original member of slipknot cuddles, THIS IS NOT TRUE!
Quote - "This mask reflects my comic personality. Plus I chose it for the bondage factor. When you put it on, it takes you to another place. Its very hot, its very tight, and it hurts - that goes along with the aggression we create."
Mask - Chris wears a bondage type Pinnochio mask, with a nose about 7-8 inches long. He has several different versions of this mask. MEANING: "At the moment I have absolutely no idea what this mask means because it's a long time since I had this fucking thing on, but I'll figure it out real fucking quick. Oh but it's all so good..."
Old Bands: Chris was previously in a band called "Shed".
INSTRUMENT: Chris uses custom titanium drums that were made by Shawn who was a welder. They have the same set up as Shawn's drums as well.
2 Mount Toms
1 Floor Tom
1 Bass Drum, set up like the floor tom
1 Anheuser-Busch Beer Keg
Vater Hammer sticks
Chris is known as the soft spoken joker of the band. I mean, really... how could he not be with that mask? Chris is the co-drummer and also the first percussionist. Chris is the comedian of the band and on the bonus tracks of the self titled album he can be heard puking (within his initiation test). Rolling Stone has described him as the most handsome and wholesome member of the band. Chris enjoys "jacking off" his nose, he can be seen doing this in not only the Spit it Out video but also in many interviews and on Conan O'Brien. There are also rumours that Chris is the original member of slipknot cuddles, THIS IS NOT TRUE!
Quote - "This mask reflects my comic personality. Plus I chose it for the bondage factor. When you put it on, it takes you to another place. Its very hot, its very tight, and it hurts - that goes along with the aggression we create."
Mask - Chris wears a bondage type Pinnochio mask, with a nose about 7-8 inches long. He has several different versions of this mask. MEANING: "At the moment I have absolutely no idea what this mask means because it's a long time since I had this fucking thing on, but I'll figure it out real fucking quick. Oh but it's all so good..."
Old Bands: Chris was previously in a band called "Shed".
INSTRUMENT: Chris uses custom titanium drums that were made by Shawn who was a welder. They have the same set up as Shawn's drums as well.
2 Mount Toms
1 Floor Tom
1 Bass Drum, set up like the floor tom
1 Anheuser-Busch Beer Keg
Vater Hammer sticks
JIM ROOT
Nicknamed "The Peach" (apparently comes from a movie "James and the giant peach") October 2, 1971
James is the newest member of the band. He joined Slipknot during the recording of the CD. He is very fast and technical with the guitar.... practice pays. Despite looks James is the tallest of the band @ 6'6, whereas Mick, who looks taller is a mere 6'2. He is more oftenly called Jim and his hair colour is brown. He was previously in the bands Dead Front, Atomic Opera and Stone Sour. James was a waiter/busboy and said that he "hated that greasy hell"
Quote - "The guys chose this mask to tame me. Joining this band takes a little getting used to. I was a timid guy before I joined them. Now I'm a freak! Am I as borderline psychotic as the rest? Ask me in a month!" (talking about bondage mask, see below).
Mask - He wears a court jester/demon mask. MEANING: "It's pretty much everything I am, but it's the stuff I'm afraid to let out sometimes. It's a jester's mask and I kinda have that prankster's side to me, so I spose it's my own little way of venting that silliness in the grossest kind of way. This is my old mask because it doesn't feel like the right time for the new one yet - it needs some work doing on it." - Jim originally inherited Josh (ex-guitarist), old mask, a bondage one containing a purple tassel on the top of it. He wore this until the new Jester mask was created, it is the mask that can be seen on the front of the self titled album cover.
INSTRUMENT:
Guitars:
Jackson SLP
Jackson DR-3 Dinky Reverse
Jackson SL2 Soloist
Amps: Mesa Boogie DC10 Head
Carvin 4X12 Speaker Cabs (top and bottom)
Effects:
Dunlop RotoVibe
Digitech Whammy Pedal
Voodoo Lab GCX Guitar Audio Switcher
Voodoo Lab Ground Control for GCX
Accessories: EMG 81 Dual Humbucker Pickups
Old bands: James used to be in Stone Sour as the guitarist, Corey was the lead singer for this band as well, it's unsure how long he was in the band for though. For info on Stone Sour see the Corey profile: 8 - Corey . He was also within the band, "Atomic Opera" prior to Stone Sour along with Bruce Swink, who also made the switch with Jim from AO to SS. During the times when Jim was in Atomic Opera; Joey looked upto him, "Jim was the King".
Jim was also in a band called "Deadfront", here are some of the songs that the band made:
Deadfront - Nemesis
1. nemesis
2. retard
3. torn inside
4. kweece
5. radio flyer
6. c.
7. assisted suicide
8. organcis
9. erase me ft alexis from smakdab
James is the newest member of the band. He joined Slipknot during the recording of the CD. He is very fast and technical with the guitar.... practice pays. Despite looks James is the tallest of the band @ 6'6, whereas Mick, who looks taller is a mere 6'2. He is more oftenly called Jim and his hair colour is brown. He was previously in the bands Dead Front, Atomic Opera and Stone Sour. James was a waiter/busboy and said that he "hated that greasy hell"
Quote - "The guys chose this mask to tame me. Joining this band takes a little getting used to. I was a timid guy before I joined them. Now I'm a freak! Am I as borderline psychotic as the rest? Ask me in a month!" (talking about bondage mask, see below).
Mask - He wears a court jester/demon mask. MEANING: "It's pretty much everything I am, but it's the stuff I'm afraid to let out sometimes. It's a jester's mask and I kinda have that prankster's side to me, so I spose it's my own little way of venting that silliness in the grossest kind of way. This is my old mask because it doesn't feel like the right time for the new one yet - it needs some work doing on it." - Jim originally inherited Josh (ex-guitarist), old mask, a bondage one containing a purple tassel on the top of it. He wore this until the new Jester mask was created, it is the mask that can be seen on the front of the self titled album cover.
INSTRUMENT:
Guitars:
Jackson SLP
Jackson DR-3 Dinky Reverse
Jackson SL2 Soloist
Amps: Mesa Boogie DC10 Head
Carvin 4X12 Speaker Cabs (top and bottom)
Effects:
Dunlop RotoVibe
Digitech Whammy Pedal
Voodoo Lab GCX Guitar Audio Switcher
Voodoo Lab Ground Control for GCX
Accessories: EMG 81 Dual Humbucker Pickups
Old bands: James used to be in Stone Sour as the guitarist, Corey was the lead singer for this band as well, it's unsure how long he was in the band for though. For info on Stone Sour see the Corey profile: 8 - Corey . He was also within the band, "Atomic Opera" prior to Stone Sour along with Bruce Swink, who also made the switch with Jim from AO to SS. During the times when Jim was in Atomic Opera; Joey looked upto him, "Jim was the King".
Jim was also in a band called "Deadfront", here are some of the songs that the band made:
Deadfront - Nemesis
1. nemesis
2. retard
3. torn inside
4. kweece
5. radio flyer
6. c.
7. assisted suicide
8. organcis
9. erase me ft alexis from smakdab
CRAIG JONES
knamed "133 MHz" - Craig gave himself the name 133 MHz because that was the top MHz of computers at the time. Unfortunately, things have progressed a lot since then. There have also been other rumours for the reason why he chose this name, for example 3+3-1 = 5 his number, these are sadly untrue, to my knowledge.
So you're wondering how the sound in the very beginning of the CD is made. Well, that's made by Craig, the sampler. He puts some crazy twists on the CD by adding sounds from movies such as "Carlito's Way" (sic) into the music. He is also, supposedly the Webmaster of Slipknot1.com, this may have changed though. After Slipknot is done playing a set, Craig leaves and secludes himself, he is isolated and independent from Slipknot. Craig is married and he originally joined the band as a guitarist but was replaced by Mick so that he could work on the samples. He is a computer freak and when playing Quake 3 his screen name is ZZ 5 along with his own skin which looks just like him. To prevent his eyes being seen in photo shoots he covers them with leather, he also prefers not to take part in interviews, remaining anonymous.
James on Craig: "Don't worry, he even scares me. I kind of feel I'm doing a service to the community by knowing where Craig is from day to day."
Quote - "Sometimes, when we are working our way up to the stage, we'll shove our way through the crowd. When people see me coming, they mostly get out of the way. But sometimes they don't..."
Mask - He wears a "diver's" (actually a gas station helmet) with nails coming out of the top. Apparently his old mask's "diving helmet" used to be a cheap plastic Sinclair (gas station) racing helmet. His mask, initially when he joined Slipknot, was a pantyhose which was accompanied with a SPAM T-shirt to every gig, the mask changed with the change of instrument, to the black helmet. Eventually He painted it black, put nails through it, and put a gas mask on it, a camera flash was added to the top but this was later removed. This mask apparently represented pain.
Useless fact: Craig used to wear a wolf skin mask during the very early shows. An exact replica of this mask was used in the United Kingdom's, Channel 5 remake of the Shining. Just a little thing I noticed while watching it the other night (25 Jun 2001).
Other Stuff: "A long time ago, back when they were playing at Mary's, someone did get a little close to getting hurt. Someone came up from behind him and startled him. He can't hear a lot in that mask because it's pretty airtight. When they came up behind him, they were wanting his autograph and they tapped him on his shoulder. He wasn't expecting anyone to come up behind him and he whipped around a little and one of the nails on his mask got caught in a chick standing next to him's hair. It took Paul and Shawn just a few seconds to get them untangled. That's as close to anything that I know of as far as any incidents with Craig's masks."
"Very quiet, the epitome of Killers Are Quiet. I remember him going with me and some others to the 1988 And Justice for All - Metallica/The Cult concert. My car's radiator blew on the way home." Craig didn't record MFKR, although his pic is in the inside sleeve of the album. The samples were put together by Anders and producer Sean Mcmahon after MFKR was recorded. Not many people know this but Craig actually joined the band as a guitarist to take over Donnie Steele's Position. His sampling was integrated into the mfkr songs for example the song gently started off with a sample from the movie "Falling down" featuring the conversation between "d-fens" and the army surplus Nazi."
INSTRUMENT:
Yamaha controller
Yamaha PSR 720
Roland JP8000
AKAI MPC2000XL sampler
Clavia Nord Lead Synth or a Yamaha Crsx-7 for 74126000027
(originally joined Slipknot as a guitarist)
James on Craig: "Don't worry, he even scares me. I kind of feel I'm doing a service to the community by knowing where Craig is from day to day."
Quote - "Sometimes, when we are working our way up to the stage, we'll shove our way through the crowd. When people see me coming, they mostly get out of the way. But sometimes they don't..."
Mask - He wears a "diver's" (actually a gas station helmet) with nails coming out of the top. Apparently his old mask's "diving helmet" used to be a cheap plastic Sinclair (gas station) racing helmet. His mask, initially when he joined Slipknot, was a pantyhose which was accompanied with a SPAM T-shirt to every gig, the mask changed with the change of instrument, to the black helmet. Eventually He painted it black, put nails through it, and put a gas mask on it, a camera flash was added to the top but this was later removed. This mask apparently represented pain.
Useless fact: Craig used to wear a wolf skin mask during the very early shows. An exact replica of this mask was used in the United Kingdom's, Channel 5 remake of the Shining. Just a little thing I noticed while watching it the other night (25 Jun 2001).
Other Stuff: "A long time ago, back when they were playing at Mary's, someone did get a little close to getting hurt. Someone came up from behind him and startled him. He can't hear a lot in that mask because it's pretty airtight. When they came up behind him, they were wanting his autograph and they tapped him on his shoulder. He wasn't expecting anyone to come up behind him and he whipped around a little and one of the nails on his mask got caught in a chick standing next to him's hair. It took Paul and Shawn just a few seconds to get them untangled. That's as close to anything that I know of as far as any incidents with Craig's masks."
"Very quiet, the epitome of Killers Are Quiet. I remember him going with me and some others to the 1988 And Justice for All - Metallica/The Cult concert. My car's radiator blew on the way home." Craig didn't record MFKR, although his pic is in the inside sleeve of the album. The samples were put together by Anders and producer Sean Mcmahon after MFKR was recorded. Not many people know this but Craig actually joined the band as a guitarist to take over Donnie Steele's Position. His sampling was integrated into the mfkr songs for example the song gently started off with a sample from the movie "Falling down" featuring the conversation between "d-fens" and the army surplus Nazi."
INSTRUMENT:
Yamaha controller
Yamaha PSR 720
Roland JP8000
AKAI MPC2000XL sampler
Clavia Nord Lead Synth or a Yamaha Crsx-7 for 74126000027
(originally joined Slipknot as a guitarist)
SHAWN CRAHAN
Nicknamed "Kong" - Shawn's mom told him he looked like a silver-backed gorilla when she watched them practising one day, so they started calling him Kong. Anders: "She watched a videotape of one of our practices in my basement and had this to say: "Anders looks like a Timber wolf, ready to attack. Shawn, you look like a Silver-back Gorilla. The whole band looks like what I envision to be the band that entices a caveman hunting party into a frenzy before going out to bring down a Mammoth."" Born September 24, 1969
Shawn adds an interesting sound to Slipknot. His drum set is made of titanium. He made it himself, because he has a background in welding, and he's good at it. Shawn starts a good amount of fights on stage, when he's not playing, and has a sort of rivalry with Sid. Shawn is also one of the co-founders of Slipknot with Paul (2) and Anders. He is the second percussionist and has a wife, Chantal, and 3 kids. ("I'm a perfect father and a fucking psychopath, ok? No contradiction") Shawn does most of the interviews and ran www.slipknot2.com, Shawn has a habit of ramming his head into walls and has injured himself many times in performances ( He has fractured knuckles, split a collarbone, suffered slipped vertebrae, bruised his pelvic bone, dislocated a shoulder, gotten a concussion, partially severed a finger, and smashed his head often enough to require 22 stitches ) He also goes onto AIM to chat with fans and he is by far the craziest member of Slipknot. Shawn has recently changed his mask and it is also named "Dude". Shawn is the oldest of Slipknot. In the old days Slipknot did not wear the jumpsuits they wore other costumes, @ one of these shows Shawn decided to wear a huge purple "Barney" suit.
Shawn was an executive producer for the MuDvAyNe CD LD.. 50. Clown has also made a brief appearance in the American Head Charge video, 'Just So You Know'. He has also remixed one of their tracks for the 'Just So You Know' single release.
Tracklisting:
1. Just So You Know (Short Attention Span Mix)
2. Just So You Know (Clown #6 Remix)
3. Real Life
4. Just So You Know (Video)
"Crahan is the band's engine, the core of the madness. There are slogans: "I don't want to push the envelope, I AM the envelope" There is darkness: "I want to do a documentary on the slaughter and sectioning of livestock carcasses." But most of all there is the splendid hatred of society's rules. "Be a boy! Ride a bike like this! Breathe this air! No dude, I've had enough! Fuck that! I'm checkin' out!" Crahan says he had a happy youth. His parents financed Slipknot in the early days and he professes nothing but the utmost respect for them. In the early '90s he had a drink problem, exacerbated when he bought a Des Moines bar. Frustrated by the lack of success, he says he would have killed himself if he hadn't met his wife Chantal. "My saviour, my hero," he says. "She saved my life." - Q Music - Find the complete article under the articles section of the site.
CROW: Shawn found a dead crow in his driveway, and kept it in a big, commercial pickle jar, and carried it around at shows until it turned to mush. During shows Shawn would open the jar, this would cause him to vomit all over the place and also cause fans to start vomiting all over the place. It was (sic), it was kept in the jar with all the bacteria and flesh eating creatures. It started secreting this brown liquid and became a fine sauce. Some kids broke the jar open and played catch with it for a while and now it's disposed. At one radio interview Shawn took it along and freaked out the radio person who was also afraid of clowns.
BEAVER TAIL "Rumour": A cop gave Shawn a dead beavers tail because the cop didn't know how to get rid of it. Shawn didn't know what to do with it so on stage he and corey squeezed all the juices out of it into their faces and then they ate it. Afterwards they were throwing up like crazy and asking each other why the fuck they did that.
Runway: Shawn was a regular attendee to the "Runway" club for which he paid $7 to enter each time. It was where the people who liked proper music gathered. However within this club Shawn was still disgraced at the number of competing cover bands that would out shine other; more original bands. Crahan did however manage to allow "all aged" shows to take place within the club on Sundays. For a while Shawn's discontent was settled with such bands as Modifidious and Body Pit, however these bands all broke up within a very short space of each other and the metal Scene had once again disappeared. Shawn now had to put up with cover bands once again. At this point Shawn knew he had to do something different and one day the concept of Slipknot came to him.
Safari Club : Shawn owned the "The Safari Club" within Des Moines for a short time (he bought it in January 1997), one of the only places to see new rock and punk acts. As Slipknot got huge though, it became too much to manage and had to be shut down, it later re-opened as Hairy Mary's (information about club in history section of site).
Shawn doesn't like surprises. But he does like Wolfpac: Website
Quote - "I've wanted to be a clown because there's something nice about me, and something pretty twisted as well. If someone stares at me on my way to the stage, I don't get up until they look away first."
I am on a world-domination mission. Slipknot isn't just an average band. It's not just music. It's a way of life and it's the real way of life. When I go on-stage, the rock'n'roll cliché can go die. There's no place for that anymore. My whole deal is, when we've reached everyone and everyone understands, I'm gone. I'm out. I've done it." - Shawn Crahan (Clown masked Percussionist and founding father (#6).
Mask - Shawn had a clown's mask that he found around 15 years ago. MEANING: "I'm going to fucking kill every motherfucker here! What was the question? The mask? IT represents my death."
INSTRUMENT: Shawn uses custom titanium drums that he made himself. The whole set is mounted upon hydraulic lifts.
Drums:
2 Mount Toms
1 Floor Tom
1 Bass Drum (set up like the floor tom so you can hit it)
1 Anheuser-Busch Beer Keg
Drumheads:
Mount Tom Batter: Remo Clear Pinstripes
Floor Tom and Bass Drum: Remo Coated Ambassador or Emperor
The drums used are from a company called " Dunnett "
Sticks: Zildijan Absolute Rock sticks
Bands: Not in many bands, mainly occupied with welding and family life.
Heads on the wall :93 - 95 Shawn - Drums Quan - Guitar: This band played four shows with Joey's band, Modifidious.
Slipknot : 1995 - CURRENT
Shawn adds an interesting sound to Slipknot. His drum set is made of titanium. He made it himself, because he has a background in welding, and he's good at it. Shawn starts a good amount of fights on stage, when he's not playing, and has a sort of rivalry with Sid. Shawn is also one of the co-founders of Slipknot with Paul (2) and Anders. He is the second percussionist and has a wife, Chantal, and 3 kids. ("I'm a perfect father and a fucking psychopath, ok? No contradiction") Shawn does most of the interviews and ran www.slipknot2.com, Shawn has a habit of ramming his head into walls and has injured himself many times in performances ( He has fractured knuckles, split a collarbone, suffered slipped vertebrae, bruised his pelvic bone, dislocated a shoulder, gotten a concussion, partially severed a finger, and smashed his head often enough to require 22 stitches ) He also goes onto AIM to chat with fans and he is by far the craziest member of Slipknot. Shawn has recently changed his mask and it is also named "Dude". Shawn is the oldest of Slipknot. In the old days Slipknot did not wear the jumpsuits they wore other costumes, @ one of these shows Shawn decided to wear a huge purple "Barney" suit.
Shawn was an executive producer for the MuDvAyNe CD LD.. 50. Clown has also made a brief appearance in the American Head Charge video, 'Just So You Know'. He has also remixed one of their tracks for the 'Just So You Know' single release.
Tracklisting:
1. Just So You Know (Short Attention Span Mix)
2. Just So You Know (Clown #6 Remix)
3. Real Life
4. Just So You Know (Video)
"Crahan is the band's engine, the core of the madness. There are slogans: "I don't want to push the envelope, I AM the envelope" There is darkness: "I want to do a documentary on the slaughter and sectioning of livestock carcasses." But most of all there is the splendid hatred of society's rules. "Be a boy! Ride a bike like this! Breathe this air! No dude, I've had enough! Fuck that! I'm checkin' out!" Crahan says he had a happy youth. His parents financed Slipknot in the early days and he professes nothing but the utmost respect for them. In the early '90s he had a drink problem, exacerbated when he bought a Des Moines bar. Frustrated by the lack of success, he says he would have killed himself if he hadn't met his wife Chantal. "My saviour, my hero," he says. "She saved my life." - Q Music - Find the complete article under the articles section of the site.
CROW: Shawn found a dead crow in his driveway, and kept it in a big, commercial pickle jar, and carried it around at shows until it turned to mush. During shows Shawn would open the jar, this would cause him to vomit all over the place and also cause fans to start vomiting all over the place. It was (sic), it was kept in the jar with all the bacteria and flesh eating creatures. It started secreting this brown liquid and became a fine sauce. Some kids broke the jar open and played catch with it for a while and now it's disposed. At one radio interview Shawn took it along and freaked out the radio person who was also afraid of clowns.
BEAVER TAIL "Rumour": A cop gave Shawn a dead beavers tail because the cop didn't know how to get rid of it. Shawn didn't know what to do with it so on stage he and corey squeezed all the juices out of it into their faces and then they ate it. Afterwards they were throwing up like crazy and asking each other why the fuck they did that.
Runway: Shawn was a regular attendee to the "Runway" club for which he paid $7 to enter each time. It was where the people who liked proper music gathered. However within this club Shawn was still disgraced at the number of competing cover bands that would out shine other; more original bands. Crahan did however manage to allow "all aged" shows to take place within the club on Sundays. For a while Shawn's discontent was settled with such bands as Modifidious and Body Pit, however these bands all broke up within a very short space of each other and the metal Scene had once again disappeared. Shawn now had to put up with cover bands once again. At this point Shawn knew he had to do something different and one day the concept of Slipknot came to him.
Safari Club : Shawn owned the "The Safari Club" within Des Moines for a short time (he bought it in January 1997), one of the only places to see new rock and punk acts. As Slipknot got huge though, it became too much to manage and had to be shut down, it later re-opened as Hairy Mary's (information about club in history section of site).
Shawn doesn't like surprises. But he does like Wolfpac: Website
Quote - "I've wanted to be a clown because there's something nice about me, and something pretty twisted as well. If someone stares at me on my way to the stage, I don't get up until they look away first."
I am on a world-domination mission. Slipknot isn't just an average band. It's not just music. It's a way of life and it's the real way of life. When I go on-stage, the rock'n'roll cliché can go die. There's no place for that anymore. My whole deal is, when we've reached everyone and everyone understands, I'm gone. I'm out. I've done it." - Shawn Crahan (Clown masked Percussionist and founding father (#6).
Mask - Shawn had a clown's mask that he found around 15 years ago. MEANING: "I'm going to fucking kill every motherfucker here! What was the question? The mask? IT represents my death."
INSTRUMENT: Shawn uses custom titanium drums that he made himself. The whole set is mounted upon hydraulic lifts.
Drums:
2 Mount Toms
1 Floor Tom
1 Bass Drum (set up like the floor tom so you can hit it)
1 Anheuser-Busch Beer Keg
Drumheads:
Mount Tom Batter: Remo Clear Pinstripes
Floor Tom and Bass Drum: Remo Coated Ambassador or Emperor
The drums used are from a company called " Dunnett "
Sticks: Zildijan Absolute Rock sticks
Bands: Not in many bands, mainly occupied with welding and family life.
Heads on the wall :93 - 95 Shawn - Drums Quan - Guitar: This band played four shows with Joey's band, Modifidious.
Slipknot : 1995 - CURRENT
MICK THOMPSON
Nicknamed "Log", "Molten Metal God" November 3, 1973
Mick is the lead guitarist of the band. He's huge, as you can see. He claims to be a fan of serial killers, but he loves cats. Mick is apparently a night person. Previously he had a job teaching guitar lessons at "Ye Olde Guitar Shop", but he stopped in 1999a. Before the famous overalls Mick dressed himself up as Little Bo Peep. There have been speculations that the old slipknot member Grouch was just Mick wearing a different mask, these speculations are untrue.
When Mick was 14, he worked in a fast food restaurant for 2 weeks.
James is actually taller than Mick, contrary to what it looks like and what most people think. James is 6'6" and Mick is 6'2".
Quote - "If I were a famous killer, I'd take some of the finer points of quite a few of them - Albert Fish and Ed Gein spring to mind. But I'm not a violent person by nature. Don't fuck with me, and you'll be fine."
Mask: He has several masks, one is a modified hockey mask, painted a yellowish gold with more custom features. His other is a mask made to look like metal, but is actually made from black leather. MEANING: "HATE! PURE FUCKIN HATE!"
Unconfirmed facts: Mick enjoys listening to Jimi Hendrix, Immolation, Morbid Angel, Beatles, and Deicide. He also continues to give guitar lessons at Ye Old Guitar Shop in Iowa.
INSTRUMENT:
Guitars:
Custom B.C. Rich Warlock with "HATE" inlays
Jackson Custom King V
Jackson DR3 Dinky Reverse
Ibanez RG470 (1998-2000, discontinued playing it live)
Amps:
Mesa Boogie Simulclass 2:90 power amp
Marshall JMP1 Tube Preamp
400 watt Carvin 4X12 Speaker Cabinet (Top and bottom)
Effects:
BOSS GX 700 Effects Processor
BOSS GT-3 Multi-Effects Pedal
Accessories:
EMG 81 Dual Humbucker Pickups
Dunlop Jazz III picks
Bands:
First band- 1993- 1995: Body Pit
Mick: Guitar (Slipknot)
Donnie Steele (original Slipknot guitarist)
Danny Spain: Drums (Deadfront)
Paul: Bass (Slipknot)
Anders: Vocals
Despite being in Body Pit he joined very late and it is unsure whether he ever even played a show with them due to their following demise.
Second band- 1995- CURRENT: Slipknot
Anders on Mick: "Avid fisherman. He & I went fishing together several times. Not as mean as he looks, by any means. He's a good guy, although he has a fascination with Serial Killers. Although he didn't record any of MFKR he is still pictured on the album." - Anders.
Mick is the lead guitarist of the band. He's huge, as you can see. He claims to be a fan of serial killers, but he loves cats. Mick is apparently a night person. Previously he had a job teaching guitar lessons at "Ye Olde Guitar Shop", but he stopped in 1999a. Before the famous overalls Mick dressed himself up as Little Bo Peep. There have been speculations that the old slipknot member Grouch was just Mick wearing a different mask, these speculations are untrue.
When Mick was 14, he worked in a fast food restaurant for 2 weeks.
James is actually taller than Mick, contrary to what it looks like and what most people think. James is 6'6" and Mick is 6'2".
Quote - "If I were a famous killer, I'd take some of the finer points of quite a few of them - Albert Fish and Ed Gein spring to mind. But I'm not a violent person by nature. Don't fuck with me, and you'll be fine."
Mask: He has several masks, one is a modified hockey mask, painted a yellowish gold with more custom features. His other is a mask made to look like metal, but is actually made from black leather. MEANING: "HATE! PURE FUCKIN HATE!"
Unconfirmed facts: Mick enjoys listening to Jimi Hendrix, Immolation, Morbid Angel, Beatles, and Deicide. He also continues to give guitar lessons at Ye Old Guitar Shop in Iowa.
INSTRUMENT:
Guitars:
Custom B.C. Rich Warlock with "HATE" inlays
Jackson Custom King V
Jackson DR3 Dinky Reverse
Ibanez RG470 (1998-2000, discontinued playing it live)
Amps:
Mesa Boogie Simulclass 2:90 power amp
Marshall JMP1 Tube Preamp
400 watt Carvin 4X12 Speaker Cabinet (Top and bottom)
Effects:
BOSS GX 700 Effects Processor
BOSS GT-3 Multi-Effects Pedal
Accessories:
EMG 81 Dual Humbucker Pickups
Dunlop Jazz III picks
Bands:
First band- 1993- 1995: Body Pit
Mick: Guitar (Slipknot)
Donnie Steele (original Slipknot guitarist)
Danny Spain: Drums (Deadfront)
Paul: Bass (Slipknot)
Anders: Vocals
Despite being in Body Pit he joined very late and it is unsure whether he ever even played a show with them due to their following demise.
Second band- 1995- CURRENT: Slipknot
Anders on Mick: "Avid fisherman. He & I went fishing together several times. Not as mean as he looks, by any means. He's a good guy, although he has a fascination with Serial Killers. Although he didn't record any of MFKR he is still pictured on the album." - Anders.
COREY TAYLOR
Nicknamed "The Sickness" December 8, 1973
Corey is the master of the horrid vocals and lyrics in Slipknot. Before he joined the band, he worked in a porn shop to earn money (it was called "Adult Emporium"). On stage he is loud, fast, and out of control. Offstage, he seems very calm and down to Earth. Before Slipknot he was part of the band Stone Sour. Corey loves Comedy albums, which he grew up on.
RUMOURS: He has been known to dress as a priest onstage. Corey is apparently a fan of "Mike Patton" who has been in Faith No more, Fantamos and Mr Bungle. According to Shawn Corey has an 18 inch neck. Corey prefers the nickname "FAITH".
A must listen: Real Audio Corey Interview (36 mins)
Quote - "We aren't hiding behind these masks, we're actually revealing more to you than you might think. The mask I wear brings out all the shit inside me that I hate. Plus it hurts like hell, which helps my intensity." "If you feel like talking, you talk, if you don't, you don't" “So many people are like, 'Gimmick, gimmick, gimmick!', Fuck you! You don't know what we're about! Our motto has always been, 'Music First.' Even if the masks and the coveralls weren't there, the music would still be good."
Mask - Used to be a leather face cover, with brown/blonde dreads. Yes, some of the dreads were made of his real hair. He used to wear them through the mask, but he cut them off because it was a pain to pull them through. Also, he was always changing his hairstyle. Now, his mask is made out of moulded latex instead of leather. Most of the dreads now seem to be fake. MEANING: "Twenty-seven, What does that mean? You'll figure it out" "Complete pain, it represents everything I fucking rally against, there is so much hate, blood, spit and puke in that fucking mask just from playing, I put it on every night and I remember why I am playing. I go from me now to the person I was when I wrote the songs."
Corey and his several types of "singing/shouting":
1) When he's actually singing (wait and bleed, mid point of no life)
2) Crazy screaming (beginning of sic and Eyeless), (surfacing fuck it all part)
3) Slow talking (I can't see, I can't be.., purity)
4) Fast talking (spit it out, no life)
5) Melodic (prosthetics, scissors)
6) Raspy scream (tattered and torn)
7) Normal scream. Like in only one, diluted, etc.
Young: At a young age Corey liked to get down to the likes of "The King" - Elvis, thanks to influences from his grandmother. "Elvis was a great singer". His grandmother also helped him with buying equipment and his talent for music.
A ghost? During Corey's youth he and some friends often talked about a burnt out old house that they dared not go near. Then one night they all decided to make their way towards the house; to their surprise it was all lit up and after hearing noises they ran screaming.
INSTRUMENT: Shure SM58 mics.
Old band = Stone Sour ... some songs by them:
Dead Man's Glare
Surgery
Sometimes
Funky Milk
Turn Your Head
I Can't Believe
Voices Again
By Your Side
Mother's Ghost(heavy)
Beside Myself
Spilling My Guts
Take It Like A Man
That's Ridiculous
Simple Woman
Tarpoo Bertha
Benefactor
Tunmult
Super Skin
Monolith
Take A Number
Faux Pax
Inherited
September
Badanya
Things Like Raisins
Mother's Ghost(piano)
Smack Scars
Blue Study
Shaman's Fetish
Your God
When I Come Down
Inside The Cynic Suffer The Children
Stone Sour Track listing for the demo tape:
1. N/A
2. Tumult
3. Super Skin
4. Monolith
5. Devil's For Puke
6. Covetous Me
Corey was also in Bloodfest and Dead Second. After Corey leaving Stone Sour for Slipknot the band ultimately finished. Jim Root also played in this band. Corey + Joel wrote most of the Stone Sour songs. They were like "Faith No More/AIC/Tool with a lot of other little elements thrown in."
Line-up:
Corey Taylor - vocals
Jim Root - Guitar
Shawn E - Bass
Bruce Swink - Guitar
Joel Ekman - Drums
Corey and Jim are in Slipknot; Jim, Shawn, and Bruce were in Deadfront; Joel is retired. Shawn E is also the Slipknot's stage manager when they tour. While in Stone Sour, Corey had an acoustic side project named, Taylor-Nichols. They put out a tape in Waterloo, Iowa and this is very rare. The tape contained 'Acoustic Ballads'.
REJECTS (Found @ Slipknot MSG Board): Rejects Site Corey was also in the band "The Rejects" for a total of one show @ Safari on Aug 22 1998 in which he got fired, Paul also played bass for this group and left soon after. There is a video of this show going around (and if anyone has it please forward it to me, I would be very grateful) and within it Corey can be seen getting fired by Dizzy Reject. Within the crowd was Shawn and a member of Smakdab, a group Corey has also recently recorded with, they get up on stage along with several others during the last song.
Sound: Cross the Ramones, Addicts, Sex Pistols, Damned and New York Dolls with 80's trash/glam metal and throw in an ample dose of GG Allin and you've got a good start. The line-up has always kind of been in flux, other than Dizzy and Joey, people kind of come and go. Hell, their old bass player went to prison! Paul subbed on bass for awhile. Now it's kind of a "supergroup" like Brujuria(sic) with members of other bands filling in The best part is this: DIZZY WAS BORN TO BE A ROCK STAR. Period. He just does not give a fuck. That man has more imaginative quotes than Gene Simmons could ever hope for. Dizzy will save rock'n'roll.
STICKYFINGAZ (Found @ MTV): The rapper sticky fingaz went to Indigo ranch with Ross and Corey to record a few songs together...one was "End of the world" and there was another one... anyhow sticky fingaz album is out, and no corey to be found... these songs did not make it to the album but may be released later, there is also a rumour that there was an argument about Corey not writing his own lyrics. (Thnx Sparkwon).
Smakdab: This band is a local Iowan band from Mason City. Corey performed one track with them to repay a favour. The track was named "Shadowed" and can be heard here: Real Audio Smakdab Song Feat Corey Taylor .
Smakdab was:
Alexis Bassett - vocals
Mick Meyers - guitar
Ryan Emerson - drums
Eric Eisenman - bass
However the members have started on a new project named; "Secretly Drowning". To view more info on this project go here: Secretly Drowning.com - the previous Smakdab site (Smakdab online) has been closed.
Other Side projects In Iowa: Corey Sang on the Sister Soliel album and he has been recording on 4-tracks with Josh Rand (Project X/Superego).
Spider-Man:
Corey has recently appeared on the Spider-Man soundtrack with the track, 'Bother'. It shows his true singing ability and has silenced many critics.
He was quoted as saying to Rock Sound Magazine from the UK: “I've been trying to get on this soundtrack for a year! Anyone who knows me knows I am the biggest Spiderman freak of all time! I started putting the word out and said I'd do a song with someone else just to be on that soundtrack, that's how much it meant to me! I've been waiting since 1993 for this movie to come out and I had this song called 'Bother', which is me and an acoustic guitar."
“Last year I was like, 'Fuck it, I'll record it'. If nothing else it'd be just for me to have on record. So I recorded this song, sent it to my manager, he heard it and was like, 'Holy shit' and he took it to the girl who was putting the soundtrack together. She flipped, and so automatically I'm flying to LA to record this song and it was weird! It was the first time I've ever been in the studio doing anything by myself and on a professional level. It came out really good. This is a song I wrote seven years ago so I'm pretty happy with it!"
Corey is the master of the horrid vocals and lyrics in Slipknot. Before he joined the band, he worked in a porn shop to earn money (it was called "Adult Emporium"). On stage he is loud, fast, and out of control. Offstage, he seems very calm and down to Earth. Before Slipknot he was part of the band Stone Sour. Corey loves Comedy albums, which he grew up on.
RUMOURS: He has been known to dress as a priest onstage. Corey is apparently a fan of "Mike Patton" who has been in Faith No more, Fantamos and Mr Bungle. According to Shawn Corey has an 18 inch neck. Corey prefers the nickname "FAITH".
A must listen: Real Audio Corey Interview (36 mins)
Quote - "We aren't hiding behind these masks, we're actually revealing more to you than you might think. The mask I wear brings out all the shit inside me that I hate. Plus it hurts like hell, which helps my intensity." "If you feel like talking, you talk, if you don't, you don't" “So many people are like, 'Gimmick, gimmick, gimmick!', Fuck you! You don't know what we're about! Our motto has always been, 'Music First.' Even if the masks and the coveralls weren't there, the music would still be good."
Mask - Used to be a leather face cover, with brown/blonde dreads. Yes, some of the dreads were made of his real hair. He used to wear them through the mask, but he cut them off because it was a pain to pull them through. Also, he was always changing his hairstyle. Now, his mask is made out of moulded latex instead of leather. Most of the dreads now seem to be fake. MEANING: "Twenty-seven, What does that mean? You'll figure it out" "Complete pain, it represents everything I fucking rally against, there is so much hate, blood, spit and puke in that fucking mask just from playing, I put it on every night and I remember why I am playing. I go from me now to the person I was when I wrote the songs."
Corey and his several types of "singing/shouting":
1) When he's actually singing (wait and bleed, mid point of no life)
2) Crazy screaming (beginning of sic and Eyeless), (surfacing fuck it all part)
3) Slow talking (I can't see, I can't be.., purity)
4) Fast talking (spit it out, no life)
5) Melodic (prosthetics, scissors)
6) Raspy scream (tattered and torn)
7) Normal scream. Like in only one, diluted, etc.
Young: At a young age Corey liked to get down to the likes of "The King" - Elvis, thanks to influences from his grandmother. "Elvis was a great singer". His grandmother also helped him with buying equipment and his talent for music.
A ghost? During Corey's youth he and some friends often talked about a burnt out old house that they dared not go near. Then one night they all decided to make their way towards the house; to their surprise it was all lit up and after hearing noises they ran screaming.
INSTRUMENT: Shure SM58 mics.
Old band = Stone Sour ... some songs by them:
Dead Man's Glare
Surgery
Sometimes
Funky Milk
Turn Your Head
I Can't Believe
Voices Again
By Your Side
Mother's Ghost(heavy)
Beside Myself
Spilling My Guts
Take It Like A Man
That's Ridiculous
Simple Woman
Tarpoo Bertha
Benefactor
Tunmult
Super Skin
Monolith
Take A Number
Faux Pax
Inherited
September
Badanya
Things Like Raisins
Mother's Ghost(piano)
Smack Scars
Blue Study
Shaman's Fetish
Your God
When I Come Down
Inside The Cynic Suffer The Children
Stone Sour Track listing for the demo tape:
1. N/A
2. Tumult
3. Super Skin
4. Monolith
5. Devil's For Puke
6. Covetous Me
Corey was also in Bloodfest and Dead Second. After Corey leaving Stone Sour for Slipknot the band ultimately finished. Jim Root also played in this band. Corey + Joel wrote most of the Stone Sour songs. They were like "Faith No More/AIC/Tool with a lot of other little elements thrown in."
Line-up:
Corey Taylor - vocals
Jim Root - Guitar
Shawn E - Bass
Bruce Swink - Guitar
Joel Ekman - Drums
Corey and Jim are in Slipknot; Jim, Shawn, and Bruce were in Deadfront; Joel is retired. Shawn E is also the Slipknot's stage manager when they tour. While in Stone Sour, Corey had an acoustic side project named, Taylor-Nichols. They put out a tape in Waterloo, Iowa and this is very rare. The tape contained 'Acoustic Ballads'.
REJECTS (Found @ Slipknot MSG Board): Rejects Site Corey was also in the band "The Rejects" for a total of one show @ Safari on Aug 22 1998 in which he got fired, Paul also played bass for this group and left soon after. There is a video of this show going around (and if anyone has it please forward it to me, I would be very grateful) and within it Corey can be seen getting fired by Dizzy Reject. Within the crowd was Shawn and a member of Smakdab, a group Corey has also recently recorded with, they get up on stage along with several others during the last song.
Sound: Cross the Ramones, Addicts, Sex Pistols, Damned and New York Dolls with 80's trash/glam metal and throw in an ample dose of GG Allin and you've got a good start. The line-up has always kind of been in flux, other than Dizzy and Joey, people kind of come and go. Hell, their old bass player went to prison! Paul subbed on bass for awhile. Now it's kind of a "supergroup" like Brujuria(sic) with members of other bands filling in The best part is this: DIZZY WAS BORN TO BE A ROCK STAR. Period. He just does not give a fuck. That man has more imaginative quotes than Gene Simmons could ever hope for. Dizzy will save rock'n'roll.
STICKYFINGAZ (Found @ MTV): The rapper sticky fingaz went to Indigo ranch with Ross and Corey to record a few songs together...one was "End of the world" and there was another one... anyhow sticky fingaz album is out, and no corey to be found... these songs did not make it to the album but may be released later, there is also a rumour that there was an argument about Corey not writing his own lyrics. (Thnx Sparkwon).
Smakdab: This band is a local Iowan band from Mason City. Corey performed one track with them to repay a favour. The track was named "Shadowed" and can be heard here: Real Audio Smakdab Song Feat Corey Taylor .
Smakdab was:
Alexis Bassett - vocals
Mick Meyers - guitar
Ryan Emerson - drums
Eric Eisenman - bass
However the members have started on a new project named; "Secretly Drowning". To view more info on this project go here: Secretly Drowning.com - the previous Smakdab site (Smakdab online) has been closed.
Other Side projects In Iowa: Corey Sang on the Sister Soliel album and he has been recording on 4-tracks with Josh Rand (Project X/Superego).
Spider-Man:
Corey has recently appeared on the Spider-Man soundtrack with the track, 'Bother'. It shows his true singing ability and has silenced many critics.
He was quoted as saying to Rock Sound Magazine from the UK: “I've been trying to get on this soundtrack for a year! Anyone who knows me knows I am the biggest Spiderman freak of all time! I started putting the word out and said I'd do a song with someone else just to be on that soundtrack, that's how much it meant to me! I've been waiting since 1993 for this movie to come out and I had this song called 'Bother', which is me and an acoustic guitar."
“Last year I was like, 'Fuck it, I'll record it'. If nothing else it'd be just for me to have on record. So I recorded this song, sent it to my manager, he heard it and was like, 'Holy shit' and he took it to the girl who was putting the soundtrack together. She flipped, and so automatically I'm flying to LA to record this song and it was weird! It was the first time I've ever been in the studio doing anything by myself and on a professional level. It came out really good. This is a song I wrote seven years ago so I'm pretty happy with it!"
INJURIES
#0 Sid
1. Third-degree burns on leg from lighting self on fire.
2. Two broken ribs from diving into guard rail.
3. Cuts and bruises from encounters with Shawn on stage.
4. Jumped off a two story ledge in to a crowd and sprained ankle.
5. Splitting open his head while working on his studio before the Psychosocial Video shoot.
6. Broke Both heels whilst jumping of back stage at Mayhem Festival 2008.
#1 Joey
1. Severely lacerated shin from pulling his drum set on top of him.
2. Broken and scarred knuckles (Mainly from punching things)
3. Concussion and stitches from flying steel pipe (Thrown by Shawn)
4. Broke his ankle (Mayhem Fest. 2008)
#2 Paul
1. Cuts and bruises from various accidents.
2. A fan tossed a bottle at him when they were playing on stage, it hit
the back of his head and gave him some bruises.
#3 Chris
1. Shinsplints
2. Bruises and cuts
3. Chonicly sore neck from headbanging.
#4 James
1. Cuts and bruises from various accidents.
#5 Craig
1. Broken big toe. (Squished under Shawns Keg)
2. Whiplash from headbanging.
#6 Shawn
1. An assortment of abrasions, bruises and broken bones from physical contact with
bandmates.
2. Several slipped vertebrae.
3. Broken ribs
4. Broken Knuckles from punching the shit out of himself, keg, fans, bandmates, and pretty much anything in sight.
5. Ozzfest 99' 2 gash's in forehead requiring 39 total stitches from slaming head into keg.
6. Lacerations in head.
7. Dislocated Shoulder from Hurling self into drum kit.
8. Split colar bone.
9. Concussion from slamming head into keg.
10. Wide array of general tissue degeneration.
11. Bruised pelvis from failed backflip attempts.
12. Tackled and maced by security
(he was riding in a golf cart near the tour buses and security didnt know who he was and
Shawn fought back)
#7 Mick
1. Severe back problems from his head banging guitar style.
2. One of clowns pipes and it took out a chunk of the fretboard and mick sliced his hand open whilen playing
#8 Corey
1. Blue, hairless, patch on leg from being lit on fire.
2. Various cuts and bruises.
3. Suffered a servere scalp infection from making his first mask. he pulled out his own hair, made it into dreds and put them onto the mask
4. Fell over on stage and sprained his ankle (Greece 2005)
1. Third-degree burns on leg from lighting self on fire.
2. Two broken ribs from diving into guard rail.
3. Cuts and bruises from encounters with Shawn on stage.
4. Jumped off a two story ledge in to a crowd and sprained ankle.
5. Splitting open his head while working on his studio before the Psychosocial Video shoot.
6. Broke Both heels whilst jumping of back stage at Mayhem Festival 2008.
#1 Joey
1. Severely lacerated shin from pulling his drum set on top of him.
2. Broken and scarred knuckles (Mainly from punching things)
3. Concussion and stitches from flying steel pipe (Thrown by Shawn)
4. Broke his ankle (Mayhem Fest. 2008)
#2 Paul
1. Cuts and bruises from various accidents.
2. A fan tossed a bottle at him when they were playing on stage, it hit
the back of his head and gave him some bruises.
#3 Chris
1. Shinsplints
2. Bruises and cuts
3. Chonicly sore neck from headbanging.
#4 James
1. Cuts and bruises from various accidents.
#5 Craig
1. Broken big toe. (Squished under Shawns Keg)
2. Whiplash from headbanging.
#6 Shawn
1. An assortment of abrasions, bruises and broken bones from physical contact with
bandmates.
2. Several slipped vertebrae.
3. Broken ribs
4. Broken Knuckles from punching the shit out of himself, keg, fans, bandmates, and pretty much anything in sight.
5. Ozzfest 99' 2 gash's in forehead requiring 39 total stitches from slaming head into keg.
6. Lacerations in head.
7. Dislocated Shoulder from Hurling self into drum kit.
8. Split colar bone.
9. Concussion from slamming head into keg.
10. Wide array of general tissue degeneration.
11. Bruised pelvis from failed backflip attempts.
12. Tackled and maced by security
(he was riding in a golf cart near the tour buses and security didnt know who he was and
Shawn fought back)
#7 Mick
1. Severe back problems from his head banging guitar style.
2. One of clowns pipes and it took out a chunk of the fretboard and mick sliced his hand open whilen playing
#8 Corey
1. Blue, hairless, patch on leg from being lit on fire.
2. Various cuts and bruises.
3. Suffered a servere scalp infection from making his first mask. he pulled out his own hair, made it into dreds and put them onto the mask
4. Fell over on stage and sprained his ankle (Greece 2005)
Quotes
Understand this:
This has never been a popularity contest. The people we care for and work with know who they are and how we feel about them. Slipknot has never been into name dropping. So we dedicate this album [Iowa] to the ones that matter most, our crazy fans and maggots all over the world. Stay (sic), fuckers! - Slipknot
Will Corey ever do GAP commercials???
"Fuck no! Negative. You will not and if you ever do see us, dude, shoot us in the face 'cause we don't know what the hell we're doing'. We're not in this for the fuckin' modelling. We're not in this for any of that shit, dude. The music mainly and fucking foremost. We don't give a fuck about all that crap."
Corey Taylor, NME, about the use of the goat on their albums
"The goat, for us, is an image that's stuck in our heads since we were kids, coming from Iowa people are like 'Beware the horned goat of satan!' and all that. It's bullshit. It's just an animal."
Shawn Crahan, NME
"I have one commandment. Be aware of your own mortality. Because as you live and achieve, the clicker is going down".
Corey Taylor, Metal Hammer, on Slipknot producing "Iowa"
"It was mainly Joey, he has a great ear for that sort of stuff and I think he'll probably continue to do that in his future.
Corey Taylor, NME, on why he crashed with the road crew rather than stay in the hotel
"All this money Robertson makes through CBN (the Christian Broadcasting Network, Robertson's religious channel) is tax free. So, what paid for that hotel? And exactly what happens to the profits of CBN, Pat? Why don't you tell me that before you get in my fucking face, you lover of the dollar sign? Pat Robertson doesn't worship the cross. He worships the fucking dollar sign."
Corey Taylor, NME, on why the tour was called "Kill The Industry" tour
"There's a song on the new record called 'Heretic Anthem' and the lyrics go if your 555, then I'm 666/ what's it like to be a heretic? Now, 555 is the sign of man, and 666 is the sign of the devil. It's basically comparing ourselves not just to other bands, but also to the whole fucking industry that surrounds us. We are above everything you fucking want us to do. We're not gonna do it, and you can't make us. It's beautiful that it works out that way. And what's it like to be a heretic? is basically us accusing the record industry of destroying an industry that should be about emotion."
Joey Jordison, Kerrang!, on what his favorite joke is
"Oasis. Those guys suck dick and we want to fight them."
Joey Jordison, Kerrang!, on his most embarassing moment
"Once in grade school, we were watching a movie with the lights out and I puked all over my desk. I was so freaked out that I tried to scoop it all up in my arms. It ruled, though, because it caused a 'vomitory'-three or four other people puked."
Joey Jordison, Kerrang!, on his modelling career
"If I ever modelled for Calvin Klein I'd give myself to a flock of fans to beat me silly with a baseball bat."
Shawn Crahan, Kerrang!
"They hurt, they love, they hate - everything that Slipknot does. We try not to talk about politics or religion, we talk about being human and dealing with life. When I get onstage, these people know me through the music and I look out and see them hitting themselves in the head and they won't stop. Their knuckles are bloody, their eyes are black, but when they talk to me I see that they're smart kids. There's the connection."
Shawn Crahan, Melody Maker
"We make sure everything we do is perfect. We spent too many years worshipping bands who fuck up."
Shawn Crahan, Melody Maker, about Slipknot's image
"If anything, it was a totally anti-image thing, no cool hairstyles, no cool clothes, no rock star bullshit. If our anti-image has turned into and image then cool - after five minutes of seeing the band I don't think anyone pays attention to it. They pay attention to the music. And that's why we're here, image really doesn't last long enough to take you round the world and it certainly doesn't give you fans as hardcore as ours are."
Corey Taylor; Metal Hammer
"I never knew my father, he bailed out before I was born. I don't even know his name, which is why I have these tatoos. This one means 'Father' (points to right side of neck) and this one means 'Death' (left side of neck). It used to bother me a lot and then I was like 'Fuck it, I'm not going to dwell on it'. We probably lived in 25 states when I was between the ages of four and eleven. When you spend a lot of time alone, you start to develop a kind of personal imagination. My mom wasn't strict at all, but the boyfriends she had would be complete fucking pricks to my sister and me, so I became stand of fish to people like that."
Corey Taylor; Metal Edge (March 2000)
"PETA. I would make everyone eat raw meat. [why] because I could."
Mick Thomson on the seven-string guitar fad
"Seven-string guitars are gay - they're nothing more than a trend. How many guitarists use all seven strings anyway? Steve Vai can, John Petrucci can. But what about Max Cavalera from Soulfly? He only uses four strings and noone's heavier than him."
Joey reacting to the ban slapped on them at Wolverhampton
"I'm going to shit in a box and send it to Wolverhampton council! We'll see how acceptable they find that! Anyway, I'm sure I can bribe some of these councilors with poker money I've won in our dressing room."
Slipknot on Korn and Limp Bizkit
"Some people may think that we hate Korn and Limp Bizkit, but that's not entirely true, we just hate Korn's 3rd album and Limp Bizkit's 2nd album. Their 1st albums, however, did greatly influence us. We do like Korn's album Issues, some of it does sound like the 1st one, but they still could have perfected it. We've never met either of them, but we'd like to."
Corey, sending a message to Fred Durst
"You might have a lot of money and be famous, but the next time you talk shit about Slipknot and it's fans ....we will kill you."
Shawn, on the purpose of the masks
"What we want to show kids is that you can come to a Slipknot show and not worry about what you look like or what group you're in."
Joey, foreseeing the future of Slipknot
"No, I don't think in that way. Being of the anonymous factor is to keep all the rock star cliche and the ego bullshit gone, so the bigger the band gets we can remain grounded. We can keep the music focused and not rob the kids of any music. You see a lot of bands, as soon as they start getting big, closing endorsements, getting involved with money, producing videos, going out with fucking porn stars and that's not where it started. What got them big is when they were grounded. It got to a certain point and then they moved away from it and we don't ever want to move away from it. That's why he anonymity comes in."
Shawn on Ross Robinson
"When we were trying to get signed, there was kind of a bidding war, and we were having a hard time because of the way we are live. Ross has an imprint now with Roadrunner, I AM Records. Ross was going to take us, fund our album himself, and make sure it got where it was supposed to go. That's how much he believed in us. He didn't have to do that because of the Roadrunner thing, but that's how much he dug us. He's such a friend now; he's an incredible human being. The really cool thing about Ross is that he lets the band have the final say. All you have to do is say, 'Man, you added this effect on guitar and we're not really digging it.' Ross just said, 'Done.' No arguing. We didn't lose sleep over anything. He's behind you as an artist, which is an incredible feeling, being able to create what you're born with. We'll definitely be working with Ross again."
Shawn Crahan
"We're a fucking army and we're fighting a war. When you're fighting a war there's gonna be casualties...how far can I go? I'll rip off my arm..."
Sid Wilson, Voliminal DVD
"Life is just what is is dude there is no person on this planet that can change or alter it, its going to keep evolving keep recycling keep moving everyone is made up the same we are all one in the same its one world one planet one love"
Corey Taylor, Metal Hammer 2008
"It Can't all be nice and happy-go lucky, especially in this band!"
Shawn Crahan, Metal Hammer 2008
"I'm an only child, but i've got these brothers, and we found each other and we made something happen"
Joey Jordison, Metal Hammer 2008
"We wanted to create the kind of band of whom i'd be jealous if we went and saw them. We dug deep inside and pulled every ounce of creativity."
Joey Jordison, Metal Hammer 2008
"For us, there's nothing like playing all out pissed, agressive music!"
Joey Jordison, Metal Hammer 2008
"Ross had me pounding that kit so hard that my hands were bleeding. They were covered in these bloody bandages!"
Sid Wilson, Metal Hammer 2008
"One time, i ate 72 hits of Acid... i saw peoples hearts exploding through their chests and blood poruing down my face and the walls... I didn't mind though!"
Mick Thomson, Metal Hammer 2008
"This girl laid her arms open with a fucking razor and wrote SLIPKNOT all over herself with her blood"
Corey Taylor, Metal Hammer 2008
"There are times when we get off stage and we can barely move!"
Corey Taylor, Metal Hammer 2008
"Slipknot is not just music, It's a force!"
This has never been a popularity contest. The people we care for and work with know who they are and how we feel about them. Slipknot has never been into name dropping. So we dedicate this album [Iowa] to the ones that matter most, our crazy fans and maggots all over the world. Stay (sic), fuckers! - Slipknot
Will Corey ever do GAP commercials???
"Fuck no! Negative. You will not and if you ever do see us, dude, shoot us in the face 'cause we don't know what the hell we're doing'. We're not in this for the fuckin' modelling. We're not in this for any of that shit, dude. The music mainly and fucking foremost. We don't give a fuck about all that crap."
Corey Taylor, NME, about the use of the goat on their albums
"The goat, for us, is an image that's stuck in our heads since we were kids, coming from Iowa people are like 'Beware the horned goat of satan!' and all that. It's bullshit. It's just an animal."
Shawn Crahan, NME
"I have one commandment. Be aware of your own mortality. Because as you live and achieve, the clicker is going down".
Corey Taylor, Metal Hammer, on Slipknot producing "Iowa"
"It was mainly Joey, he has a great ear for that sort of stuff and I think he'll probably continue to do that in his future.
Corey Taylor, NME, on why he crashed with the road crew rather than stay in the hotel
"All this money Robertson makes through CBN (the Christian Broadcasting Network, Robertson's religious channel) is tax free. So, what paid for that hotel? And exactly what happens to the profits of CBN, Pat? Why don't you tell me that before you get in my fucking face, you lover of the dollar sign? Pat Robertson doesn't worship the cross. He worships the fucking dollar sign."
Corey Taylor, NME, on why the tour was called "Kill The Industry" tour
"There's a song on the new record called 'Heretic Anthem' and the lyrics go if your 555, then I'm 666/ what's it like to be a heretic? Now, 555 is the sign of man, and 666 is the sign of the devil. It's basically comparing ourselves not just to other bands, but also to the whole fucking industry that surrounds us. We are above everything you fucking want us to do. We're not gonna do it, and you can't make us. It's beautiful that it works out that way. And what's it like to be a heretic? is basically us accusing the record industry of destroying an industry that should be about emotion."
Joey Jordison, Kerrang!, on what his favorite joke is
"Oasis. Those guys suck dick and we want to fight them."
Joey Jordison, Kerrang!, on his most embarassing moment
"Once in grade school, we were watching a movie with the lights out and I puked all over my desk. I was so freaked out that I tried to scoop it all up in my arms. It ruled, though, because it caused a 'vomitory'-three or four other people puked."
Joey Jordison, Kerrang!, on his modelling career
"If I ever modelled for Calvin Klein I'd give myself to a flock of fans to beat me silly with a baseball bat."
Shawn Crahan, Kerrang!
"They hurt, they love, they hate - everything that Slipknot does. We try not to talk about politics or religion, we talk about being human and dealing with life. When I get onstage, these people know me through the music and I look out and see them hitting themselves in the head and they won't stop. Their knuckles are bloody, their eyes are black, but when they talk to me I see that they're smart kids. There's the connection."
Shawn Crahan, Melody Maker
"We make sure everything we do is perfect. We spent too many years worshipping bands who fuck up."
Shawn Crahan, Melody Maker, about Slipknot's image
"If anything, it was a totally anti-image thing, no cool hairstyles, no cool clothes, no rock star bullshit. If our anti-image has turned into and image then cool - after five minutes of seeing the band I don't think anyone pays attention to it. They pay attention to the music. And that's why we're here, image really doesn't last long enough to take you round the world and it certainly doesn't give you fans as hardcore as ours are."
Corey Taylor; Metal Hammer
"I never knew my father, he bailed out before I was born. I don't even know his name, which is why I have these tatoos. This one means 'Father' (points to right side of neck) and this one means 'Death' (left side of neck). It used to bother me a lot and then I was like 'Fuck it, I'm not going to dwell on it'. We probably lived in 25 states when I was between the ages of four and eleven. When you spend a lot of time alone, you start to develop a kind of personal imagination. My mom wasn't strict at all, but the boyfriends she had would be complete fucking pricks to my sister and me, so I became stand of fish to people like that."
Corey Taylor; Metal Edge (March 2000)
"PETA. I would make everyone eat raw meat. [why] because I could."
Mick Thomson on the seven-string guitar fad
"Seven-string guitars are gay - they're nothing more than a trend. How many guitarists use all seven strings anyway? Steve Vai can, John Petrucci can. But what about Max Cavalera from Soulfly? He only uses four strings and noone's heavier than him."
Joey reacting to the ban slapped on them at Wolverhampton
"I'm going to shit in a box and send it to Wolverhampton council! We'll see how acceptable they find that! Anyway, I'm sure I can bribe some of these councilors with poker money I've won in our dressing room."
Slipknot on Korn and Limp Bizkit
"Some people may think that we hate Korn and Limp Bizkit, but that's not entirely true, we just hate Korn's 3rd album and Limp Bizkit's 2nd album. Their 1st albums, however, did greatly influence us. We do like Korn's album Issues, some of it does sound like the 1st one, but they still could have perfected it. We've never met either of them, but we'd like to."
Corey, sending a message to Fred Durst
"You might have a lot of money and be famous, but the next time you talk shit about Slipknot and it's fans ....we will kill you."
Shawn, on the purpose of the masks
"What we want to show kids is that you can come to a Slipknot show and not worry about what you look like or what group you're in."
Joey, foreseeing the future of Slipknot
"No, I don't think in that way. Being of the anonymous factor is to keep all the rock star cliche and the ego bullshit gone, so the bigger the band gets we can remain grounded. We can keep the music focused and not rob the kids of any music. You see a lot of bands, as soon as they start getting big, closing endorsements, getting involved with money, producing videos, going out with fucking porn stars and that's not where it started. What got them big is when they were grounded. It got to a certain point and then they moved away from it and we don't ever want to move away from it. That's why he anonymity comes in."
Shawn on Ross Robinson
"When we were trying to get signed, there was kind of a bidding war, and we were having a hard time because of the way we are live. Ross has an imprint now with Roadrunner, I AM Records. Ross was going to take us, fund our album himself, and make sure it got where it was supposed to go. That's how much he believed in us. He didn't have to do that because of the Roadrunner thing, but that's how much he dug us. He's such a friend now; he's an incredible human being. The really cool thing about Ross is that he lets the band have the final say. All you have to do is say, 'Man, you added this effect on guitar and we're not really digging it.' Ross just said, 'Done.' No arguing. We didn't lose sleep over anything. He's behind you as an artist, which is an incredible feeling, being able to create what you're born with. We'll definitely be working with Ross again."
Shawn Crahan
"We're a fucking army and we're fighting a war. When you're fighting a war there's gonna be casualties...how far can I go? I'll rip off my arm..."
Sid Wilson, Voliminal DVD
"Life is just what is is dude there is no person on this planet that can change or alter it, its going to keep evolving keep recycling keep moving everyone is made up the same we are all one in the same its one world one planet one love"
Corey Taylor, Metal Hammer 2008
"It Can't all be nice and happy-go lucky, especially in this band!"
Shawn Crahan, Metal Hammer 2008
"I'm an only child, but i've got these brothers, and we found each other and we made something happen"
Joey Jordison, Metal Hammer 2008
"We wanted to create the kind of band of whom i'd be jealous if we went and saw them. We dug deep inside and pulled every ounce of creativity."
Joey Jordison, Metal Hammer 2008
"For us, there's nothing like playing all out pissed, agressive music!"
Joey Jordison, Metal Hammer 2008
"Ross had me pounding that kit so hard that my hands were bleeding. They were covered in these bloody bandages!"
Sid Wilson, Metal Hammer 2008
"One time, i ate 72 hits of Acid... i saw peoples hearts exploding through their chests and blood poruing down my face and the walls... I didn't mind though!"
Mick Thomson, Metal Hammer 2008
"This girl laid her arms open with a fucking razor and wrote SLIPKNOT all over herself with her blood"
Corey Taylor, Metal Hammer 2008
"There are times when we get off stage and we can barely move!"
Corey Taylor, Metal Hammer 2008
"Slipknot is not just music, It's a force!"
