Slipknot is riding high on the success of their “Here Comes The Pain” tour, celebrating their 25th anniversary with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Backstage at Madison Square Garden, amidst the buzz of their latest performance, Shawn ‘Clown’ Crahan sat down with Rolling Stone to share his reflections on the tour, the band’s evolution, and the bittersweet emotions tied to this milestone.
A Tour of Joy and Reflection
According to Clown, the current tour has been one of the most exhilarating periods in Slipknot’s history. The Iowa metal legends are reveling in their shared experience and creative synergy, which has led to what Clown describes as “a blast” on stage and off. “We haven’t had this much fun as a band in a long time,” he enthuses. “I’ll be honest with you. I haven’t been this happy in a very, very long time.”
This sense of joy and fulfillment is not just about the band’s success but also about the way Slipknot has come together to clarify their vision and purpose. “We came together and we decided what we want and we’re doing what we want,” Clown explains. “So not going to let anybody get in the way of that or interfere with pure love.” This unity and focus have contributed to the band’s revitalized spirit and positive atmosphere on the road.
Missing Key Members
However, the tour is tinged with a sense of loss, as Slipknot is missing two of its founding members who played crucial roles in the band’s early success. Clown openly acknowledges the “awkward” feeling of celebrating a significant anniversary without late bassist Paul Gray and drummer Joey Jordison. “Something like a 25-year anniversary seems like a big selling point for a tour like this,” he notes, “but it’s really awkward for me because two of the most important people for all of this, for any of it, have both passed.”
Despite this poignant absence, Clown expresses gratitude for the opportunity to continue with Slipknot and to honor Gray and Jordison’s legacies through the band’s ongoing work. “I want to express that I feel blessed to be in this band and still be alive and be here,” he says. This sentiment reflects the band’s commitment to carrying forward the spirit of Slipknot while recognizing the contributions of those who have shaped its history.
A Surprise for the Fans
As for what’s next, Clown teases that fans might soon hear a long-awaited track from Slipknot’s early days. “There’s a song from the ’Knot’s 1999 era that has still never been performed live, even on this tour,” he reveals. The elusive track, “Diluted,” has been a source of intrigue for fans for years. “I’m sure that’s going to show up any show now,” Clown hints, generating excitement and speculation among the band’s dedicated following.
The anticipation for this rare performance adds an extra layer of excitement to the tour, as fans look forward to surprises and deeper dives into Slipknot’s extensive catalog. Clown’s promise of revisiting this elusive track underscores the band’s ongoing commitment to delivering memorable and unique experiences for their audience.
Upcoming European and UK Tour Dates
Slipknot’s anniversary tour will continue through Europe and the UK later this year, with a series of highly anticipated shows. Fans can catch the band performing at:
- December 5: Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
- December 6: Dortmund, Germany – Westfalenhalle
- December 8: Stuttgart, Germany – Schleyerhalle
- December 9: Leipzig, Germany – Quarterback Immobilien Arena
- December 11: Zurich, Switzerland – Hallenstadion
- December 12: Paris, France – Accorhotel Arena
- December 14: Leeds, UK – First Direct Arena
- December 15: Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro
- December 17: Manchester, UK – Co-op Live Arena
- December 18: Birmingham, UK – Utilita Arena
- December 20: London, UK – The O2
- December 21: London, UK – The O2
These dates promise to be highlights of Slipknot’s anniversary tour, offering fans across Europe and the UK a chance to experience the band’s high-octane live performances and celebrate their 25 years of metal mayhem.
The Band’s Evolution and Legacy
The 25th anniversary tour is not just a celebration of Slipknot’s longevity but also a reflection of their evolution as a band. Over the years, Slipknot has grown from its early days in Iowa to become one of the most influential and innovative metal acts in the world. The band’s ability to adapt and reinvent itself while staying true to its roots has been a key factor in its sustained success.
Clown’s remarks about the band’s renewed sense of purpose and unity highlight how Slipknot has navigated its challenges and triumphs. The tour is a testament to their resilience and dedication to their fans, as well as their respect for the legacy of their late members.
So
Slipknot’s 25th anniversary tour, as conveyed by Clown, is a celebration of both the band’s remarkable journey and the ongoing joy they find in performing together. While the absence of key members adds a layer of poignancy to the tour, the band’s commitment to honoring their legacy and delivering an unforgettable experience remains at the forefront. With surprise performances and a full slate of European and UK dates, Slipknot continues to captivate and energize fans around the world, proving that their passion for music and connection with their audience remains as strong as ever.
