Korn Surprises Fans with Rare Performances of Deep Cuts and Forgotten Tracks in Fall Tour Opener
Korn, the iconic nu-metal band, kicked off their fall tour with an explosive and unexpected setlist at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater in Tampa, Florida, on September 12, 2024. Known for delivering intense and unforgettable live shows, Korn raised the bar by dusting off songs that hadn’t been performed live in decades, leaving fans in awe.
The biggest surprise of the night came with the resurrection of “Hey Daddy,” a deep cut from their 1999 album Issues. According to Setlist.fm, this was only the second time Korn has ever played the track live, the last being 25 years ago during the original Issues tour. The performance was a treat for hardcore Korn fans, many of whom had never heard the song live before.
A Rare “Issues” Deep Cut: “Hey Daddy”
“Hey Daddy” has always been a fan-favorite for its dark, brooding lyrics and distinctive sound, but it has remained a rarity in Korn’s live performances. When the band launched into the track during the fourth song of their set, the crowd immediately recognized it as something special. The eerie tones of Jonathan Davis’ vocals paired with the grinding bassline created a haunting atmosphere, reminding the audience of Korn’s early sound that helped define nu-metal in the late ’90s. It was a significant moment, a nostalgic callback to their landmark album Issues, which remains one of the band’s most beloved works.
The decision to perform “Hey Daddy” was a bold move, showing Korn’s willingness to dive deep into their back catalog and bring out tracks that hadn’t seen the light of day in years. For long-time fans, this was an unforgettable moment that added a unique layer to the concert experience.
More Surprises: “Dead Bodies Everywhere” and “Oildale (Leave Me Alone)”
Korn didn’t stop there. The surprises kept coming, with “Dead Bodies Everywhere” making an appearance within the first four songs of the night. The track, from the band’s 1998 album Follow the Leader, had not been performed live since 2019, making its inclusion in the setlist another highlight for fans of Korn’s earlier, more experimental era.
The band continued to delve into their discography, pulling out “Oildale (Leave Me Alone),” a song from their 2010 album Korn III: Remember Who You Are. Despite being the lead single from the album, the track hadn’t been performed since 2012, marking a 12-year absence from Korn’s setlists. This performance was especially significant as it was the first time guitarist Brian “Head” Welch had ever played the song live. Welch was not a member of Korn during the recording or touring cycle for Korn III, making his participation in the performance a first.
“Oildale” was one of the more heavily played songs in Korn’s rotation during the early 2010s, with the band performing it over 190 times in the two years following its release. However, it had been retired from live shows after 2012, so its return to the setlist was a pleasant surprise for fans who had missed hearing it live.
Fan Favorites and Classics
While the deep cuts and rare performances were the biggest talking points of the night, Korn made sure to deliver on fan-favorite tracks as well. The band kicked off the show with “Here to Stay,” setting the tone for a high-energy night. As the evening progressed, Korn cycled through some of their most iconic songs, including “Blind,” “Got the Life,” and “Y’All Want a Single.”
Each track showcased the band’s undeniable chemistry and ability to command the stage. Jonathan Davis’s powerful vocals, paired with the signature heavy riffs and pounding rhythm section, made for a truly immersive experience for the audience. Fans were moshing, singing along, and fully engaged in every moment of the show.
The encore brought even more excitement, as the band returned to the stage to perform two of their biggest hits: “Falling Away From Me” and “Freak on a Leash.” These tracks, both from Korn’s 1999 album Issues, are staples of their live performances, and the crowd erupted when the opening notes of “Freak on a Leash” rang out. The band closed the night with this beloved song, leaving the audience on a high note.
Korn’s Evolving Setlists and Legacy
What makes Korn’s current tour so remarkable is their willingness to evolve their setlists while still honoring their legacy. Many bands with a career spanning multiple decades might stick to playing the same few hits to please casual fans, but Korn has never been afraid to take risks and surprise their audience. By incorporating deep cuts like “Hey Daddy” and lesser-played tracks like “Oildale,” Korn is reminding fans that their catalog is rich with material, and they are not content to just rest on their laurels.
The inclusion of “Dead Bodies Everywhere,” a track that hadn’t been performed live in years, also speaks to Korn’s desire to keep things fresh. It’s clear that the band is still in touch with what their fans want, providing a balance of nostalgia and unexpected moments that make their shows stand out from the typical concert experience.
The Road Ahead for Korn’s Fall Tour
Korn’s fall tour will continue across the U.S., with the next stop in St. Paul, Minnesota, on October 27, 2024. The tour, which runs through October, also features support from Gojira and Spiritbox, adding an extra layer of excitement for metal fans.
As Korn continues their tour, fans can expect more surprises and memorable performances. Whether it’s the return of rare deep cuts or the thrilling delivery of their greatest hits, Korn has proven that even after decades in the industry, they are still a force to be reckoned with.
Full Setlist – Tampa, Florida, September 12, 2024
- “Here to Stay”
- “Dead Bodies Everywhere”
- “Got the Life”
- “Hey Daddy”
- “A.D.I.D.A.S.”
- “Start the Healing”
- “Blind”
- “Ball Tongue”
- “Clown”
- “Shoots and Ladders” (with snippet of Metallica’s “One”)
- “Twist”
- “Make Me Bad”
- “Insane”
- “Oildale (Leave Me Alone)”
- “Y’all Want a Single”
Encore
16. “Falling Away From Me”
17. “Good God”
18. “Freak on a Leash”
Korn’s dedication to their fans and their music is what has kept them relevant in a genre that has seen many bands come and go. With their fall tour in full swing, it’s clear that Korn still has plenty of surprises in store for their fans. Whether you’re a long-time follower or a new listener, Korn’s shows offer a unique blend of nostalgia, intensity, and innovation.
