Slipknot, the American heavy metal band, originated in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1995. It was founded by percussionist Shawn Crahan, drummer Joey Jordison, and bassist Paul Gray.
Over its initial years, Slipknot underwent several lineup changes until it solidified a nine-member formation for more than a decade. This lineup included Crahan, Jordison, Gray, Craig Jones, Mick Thomson, Corey Taylor, Sid Wilson, Chris Fehn, and Jim Root.
Tragedy struck when bassist Gray passed away on May 24, 2010. His position was filled by Donnie Steele between 2011 and 2014. In 2013, Jordison’s association with the band ended abruptly on December 12. During the recording sessions of their album “.5: The Gray Chapter,” Donnie Steele also left. Alessandro Venturella joined as the new bassist, and Jay Weinberg took over the drumming duties.
After Jordison’s departure, the sole founding member remaining in the current lineup is percussionist Crahan. Another change occurred in March 2019, as Fehn exited the band before the creation of “We Are Not Your Kind,” and Michael Pfaff took his place. Subsequently, in 2023, Jones also parted ways with the band.
Slipknot’s reputation rests on its captivating image, intense musical style, and dynamic live performances. Their journey to stardom accelerated after the release of their self-titled debut album in 1999.
The subsequent album, “Iowa,” released in 2001, garnered even more attention despite its darker tone. After a brief hiatus, the band reappeared in 2004 with “Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses).” They took another break before returning in 2008 with “All Hope Is Gone,” their fourth album, which secured the top spot on the US Billboard 200 chart.
After a prolonged pause, Slipknot unveiled their fifth studio album, “.5: The Gray Chapter,” in 2014. The sixth studio album, “We Are Not Your Kind,” hit the scene on August 9, 2019.
Their seventh studio album, “The End, So Far,” followed on September 30, 2022. The band’s discography includes two live albums, “9.0: Live” and “Day of the Gusano: Live in Mexico,” a compilation album titled “Antennas to Hell,” and five live DVDs. With a global record sales figure of 30 million and over 12 million in their home country, Slipknot’s impact on the music industry is undeniable.