Joey Jordison, American musician, songwriter, record producer

Nathan Jonas Jordison, universally known by his stage name Joey Jordison, was an exceptionally talented American musician and songwriter whose immense contributions significantly shaped the landscape of heavy metal. Born on April 26, 1975, he tragically passed away on July 26, 2021, leaving behind a profound legacy as a groundbreaking drummer and a multi-instrumentalist.

His musical journey began early, rooted in Des Moines, Iowa, where he grew up alongside his parents and two sisters. A pivotal moment occurred at the tender age of eight when he received his first drum kit, igniting a lifelong passion. While Des Moines wasn't traditionally known as a hotbed for heavy music, Jordison's relentless dedication led him to perform with numerous local bands, honing his craft before achieving global recognition.

The Genesis of Slipknot and His Iconic Role

In the summer of 1995, Jordison joined a nascent group initially known as The Pale Ones. This collective, driven by a raw and aggressive vision, soon rebranded itself as Slipknot, a name that would become synonymous with a new era of extreme metal. As a co-founder and the original drummer, Joey Jordison was not merely a percussionist but a foundational architect of Slipknot's unique sound and formidable stage presence. He was the third member to join what would become their iconic nine-member lineup, which solidified between 1999 and 2010.

Jordison's drumming style was instantly recognizable and highly influential: a blistering fusion of speed, precision, intricate fills, and explosive blast beats, all delivered with an unparalleled intensity that was a hallmark of Slipknot's sound. His performance prowess was not just technical; it was a visceral part of the band's chaotic, theatrical live shows, which often involved his custom drum riser rotating and elevating mid-performance. He was integral to the recording of four of Slipknot’s seminal studio albums – Slipknot (1999), Iowa (2001), Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses) (2004), and All Hope Is Gone (2008). Beyond his drumming, he also showcased his production skills by producing the band’s compelling live album, 9.0: Live.

Musical Endeavors Beyond Slipknot

Joey Jordison remained with Slipknot from its inception until his unexpected departure in December 2013. This split was a significant event for fans and the music world, and Jordison later revealed it was largely due to transverse myelitis, a rare neurological disorder that severely affected his ability to play drums, temporarily robbing him of the use of his legs. Despite this profound personal challenge, his indomitable spirit pushed him to recover and continue making music.

His creative energies extended far beyond Slipknot. He was the guitarist for the American horror punk supergroup Murderdolls, showcasing his versatility as a musician. Following his departure from Slipknot, he formed Scar the Martyr in 2013, serving as its drummer and founder until its disbandment in 2016. In his later years, Jordison continued to contribute to the metal scene, notably playing in the melodic black death metal band Sinsaenum at the time of his passing.

Jordison's talents were highly sought after, leading to extensive session work and collaborations with an impressive array of prominent artists across various metal subgenres. He performed with rock and metal giants such as Rob Zombie, Metallica, Korn, Ministry, Otep, and Satyricon. His adaptability and sheer skill made him a go-to drummer for many, further cementing his reputation as one of the most respected musicians in heavy music. Throughout his career, he favored drum brands like Pearl and ddrum, often collaborating on custom kits that reflected his aggressive and dynamic playing style.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joey Jordison

What was Joey Jordison's primary role in Slipknot?

Joey Jordison was the original drummer and a co-founder of the American heavy metal band Slipknot, playing a crucial role in shaping their distinctive sound and visual identity from their inception.

What other bands and projects was Joey Jordison involved with?

Beyond Slipknot, Jordison was the guitarist for the horror punk supergroup Murderdolls, the founder and drummer for Scar the Martyr, and a drummer for the melodic black death metal band Sinsaenum at the time of his death. He also engaged in extensive session work and collaborations with artists like Rob Zombie, Metallica, and Korn.

What was Joey Jordison particularly known for in his drumming style?

Jordison was renowned for his incredibly fast, precise, and powerful drumming, characterized by intricate fills, blistering blast beats, and an intense, energetic live performance style that greatly influenced the heavy metal genre.

When and why did Joey Jordison leave Slipknot?

Joey Jordison departed from Slipknot in December 2013. He later revealed that his departure was largely due to transverse myelitis, a neurological disease that temporarily impaired his ability to play the drums.

What is Joey Jordison's lasting impact on the music world?

Joey Jordison left an indelible mark as one of heavy metal's most influential drummers, celebrated for his technical prowess, creative songwriting contributions, and his pivotal role in co-founding and defining Slipknot's iconic sound and image. His versatile musicianship and intense stage presence continue to inspire drummers and musicians worldwide.