Slipknot’s Shawn ‘Clown’ Crahan Reflects on the Band’s Evolution: “We’ll Never Be Like We Were in 1999”
Slipknot’s journey from their chaotic and groundbreaking early days to their current status as metal icons has been marked by profound changes, both in their lineup and in their internal dynamics. In a candid interview for the latest issue of Metal Hammer, percussionist Shawn ‘Clown’ Crahan opened up about how the passing of key members and subsequent lineup changes have reshaped the band, making it clear that Slipknot will never be quite the same as it was during its formative years.
The Early Days and the Impact of Loss
Slipknot, founded in 1995 by Crahan and a group of like-minded musicians, quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the nu-metal scene. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1999, not only catapulted them into the limelight but also established a bond among the band members that Crahan describes as intensely close. However, as the years have passed, the band has faced significant losses that have altered their dynamics forever.
The deaths of bassist Paul Gray in 2010 and drummer Joey Jordison in 2021 were seismic events for Slipknot. Gray and Jordison were integral to Slipknot’s identity, both musically and personally. Their passing has left a void that Crahan acknowledges can never be filled. In addition to these losses, the departures of percussionist Chris Fehn and samples/keys player Craig “133” Jones have further changed the band’s landscape.
Reflecting on this period, Crahan told Metal Hammer, “Brother, the band will never be like that again. I can’t tell you how close we were then: we’re not that close anymore. People are gone. Craig’s out. Chris is out, Joey’s out, Paul’s out. The band is different. But, back then, there was nine guys that wanted to be in the same place, and we made it work. And we wound up here, and here is wonderful.”
Honoring the Legacy
Crahan’s reflection on the band’s early days is marked by a deep sense of nostalgia and reverence for his late bandmates. In the interview, he emphasized the significant roles Gray and Jordison played in shaping Slipknot’s sound and success. “I’m doing these 25-year anniversary interviews, and not a lot of human beings are asking me about them,” Crahan lamented. “You can’t talk about any of this without talking about them.”
He continued, “They’re greatly missed, and every day that I go through this 25-year anniversary, I miss them more, but also appreciate, love, and just acknowledge who they were to all this. It’s very important for me to say that, because these are two gentlemen that should be talking to you, and they can’t. Joey and Paul… Oh my God, they wrote this shit man. Number 1 and Number 2. The path changed for us after they passed, and we had to keep going, and take a new path, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t know where we came from, or ever forget what brought us here.”
Crahan’s words highlight a poignant truth: while Slipknot’s past can never be replicated, the band’s current iteration still carries forward the spirit and legacy of its original members. The resilience and evolution of Slipknot have allowed them to continue their journey, even as they navigate the challenges of an ever-changing lineup.
The Band’s Continued Journey
Despite the heartache and change, Slipknot remains a formidable presence in the music world. They are currently on tour across North America to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their debut album. This tour not only honors their past but also showcases their ongoing commitment to their craft and their fans.
In addition to their North American dates, Slipknot is preparing for a European tour in December. The lineup of shows is a testament to the band’s enduring popularity and their ability to connect with audiences around the globe. For fans old and new, these performances offer a chance to experience Slipknot’s powerful live presence, even as the band navigates the evolution of their lineup.
The Future of Slipknot
As Slipknot continues to tour and make music, the band is also engaging in a broader conversation about their legacy and impact. The latest issue of Metal Hammer, featuring an in-depth look at Slipknot’s debut and their journey over the past 25 years, includes interviews with the band members, their influences, and those who witnessed their rise from their early days in Iowa.
This issue also features other prominent metal acts such as Ozzy Osbourne, Powerwolf, Opeth, and Heriot, reflecting the wide-reaching influence of Slipknot and their place within the broader metal community. It’s a celebration of not only Slipknot’s past but also their continued relevance and impact on the genre.
For those interested in exploring more about Slipknot’s history and their ongoing contributions to metal, the new issue of Metal Hammer is a must-read. It offers a comprehensive look at the band’s evolution, their challenges, and their achievements, providing a nuanced perspective on how they have navigated the complexities of their career.
Tour Dates and Future Prospects
As Slipknot moves forward, their tour dates offer fans a chance to celebrate their legacy and experience the band’s current lineup in action. The North American dates include:
- Sep 17: Austin Moody Center, TX
- Sep 18: Dallas Dos Equis Pavilion, TX
- Sep 21: Des Moines Water Works Park, IA
- Oct 11: Sacramento Aftershock Festival, CA
- Oct 19: São Paulo Knotfest Brasil, Brazil
- Nov 08: Guadalajara Calle 2, Mexico
- Nov 09: Mexico City Parque Bicentenario, Mexico
Their European tour dates are as follows:
- Dec 05: Amsterdam Ziggo Dome, Netherlands
- Dec 06: Dortmund Westfalenhalle, Germany
- Dec 08: Stuttgart Schleyerhalle, Germany
- Dec 09: Leipzig Quarterback Immobilien Arena, Germany
- Dec 11: Zurich Hallenstadion, Switzerland
- Dec 12: Paris Accorhotel Arena, France
- Dec 14: Leeds First Direct Arena, UK
- Dec 15: Glasgow OVO Hydro, UK
- Dec 17: Manchester Co-op Live Arena, UK
- Dec 18: Birmingham Utilita Arena, UK
- Dec 20: London O2 Arena, UK
- Dec 21: London O2 Arena, UK
Slipknot’s ongoing journey is a testament to their resilience and their dedication to their fans. While the band may never return to the exact dynamic of their early days, their ability to adapt and continue making music speaks volumes about their enduring spirit and the lasting impact of their legacy.
