Since the release of their self-titled debut in 1999, Slipknot has become a defining force in the metal music world. Known for their chaotic live shows, haunting masks, and raw, aggressive sound, the band has gathered an intensely loyal following known as “Maggots.”
For these fans, Slipknot represents more than just music; it’s a lifestyle, a community, and for many, a sanctuary. This weekend’s Knotfest, held in Des Moines, Iowa, is not only a continuation of that legacy but also a celebration of Slipknot’s 25 years in the music industry. The festival has grown into one of the most important events for metal and alternative music fans, and this year is no exception. It will serve as both a stop on the band’s Here Comes The Pain tour and a massive celebration of their journey. In this article, we dive deeper into the festival, its curation, and the insight shared by Slipknot’s iconic drummer, Clown, about the band’s journey and the significance of Knotfest.
Knotfest: A Festival Like No Other
Knotfest has always been about more than just the music. It’s a full sensory experience that celebrates the culture and ethos of Slipknot and heavy metal. Founded in 2012, Knotfest was born from the band’s desire to give their fans something truly immersive and distinct from other music festivals. It combines live performances, art installations, horror elements, and attractions such as fire-breathing metal sculptures, drum circles, and even haunted houses. Each edition of Knotfest is carefully curated to reflect Slipknot’s identity and the band members’ diverse interests, creating an environment where music meets art and community.
This year’s Knotfest lineup is particularly impressive, featuring a wide range of artists across various sub-genres of heavy music. Headliners include Till Lindemann from the industrial-metal powerhouse Rammstein, metalcore legends Hatebreed, and the satirical shock-rock group GWAR. Alongside these established names are younger acts like Knocked Loose, Vended (featuring the sons of Slipknot members Corey Taylor and Shawn “Clown” Crahan), and Zulu, a rising band blending hardcore punk and hip-hop influences. This blend of veteran acts and up-and-coming artists reflects Slipknot’s commitment to fostering both the history and future of heavy music.
For Clown, the curation of Knotfest is more than just a logistical challenge; it’s a labor of love. “It’s all curated in thought, process, concept, love, desire, art,” Clown explained. Slipknot’s vision for Knotfest is to create a day where fans can be completely immersed in a world of music, culture, and community. This experience goes beyond just watching performances—it’s about fans coming together to celebrate a shared passion for heavy music.
The Evolution of Slipknot and the Role of the Maggots
As Slipknot celebrates 25 years of their self-titled debut, it’s impossible to ignore the impact they’ve had on the music world. They revolutionized the genre by incorporating elements of death metal, industrial, and nu-metal, while their visceral performances and striking visual presentation set them apart from their peers. But Slipknot’s success isn’t just about the music—they’ve built an incredibly loyal fanbase that feels a deep connection to the band’s raw emotion and dark energy.
At Knotfest, this connection is celebrated, with Slipknot recognizing how important their fans, the “Maggots,” have been to their journey. Clown shared his thoughts on this unique relationship, noting how deeply their music resonates with fans who often credit Slipknot for helping them through difficult times. “We’ve heard it all,” Clown said, reflecting on the countless fans who’ve told them that Slipknot’s music saved their lives. This deep emotional bond with their audience is something Slipknot has always fostered, designing their shows and festival experiences to be not just performances, but cathartic experiences.
For Clown, connecting with the Maggots means more than ever before. At this year’s Knotfest, he will be sitting down to share stories from his time in the band, offering fans a rare glimpse behind the mask. “It’s a big deal on both parts,” Clown said, describing how the interaction will be both cathartic and challenging. “I could be brought up, filled up; I can bring them down. Hopefully, we just hold each other.” This vulnerability is a marked change for Clown, who has always maintained a level of separation between his personal life and his stage persona. Now, as the sole original member of Slipknot, Clown is taking stock of his life and career, acknowledging the profound impact both he and the band have had on their fans.
25 Years of Pain and Reflection
This year, Slipknot celebrates 25 years of their self-titled debut, an album that introduced the world to their uncompromising brand of metal. For Clown, the milestone carries deep personal significance. As Slipknot’s founding member and creative visionary, Clown reflects on the journey from their humble beginnings in Des Moines to becoming one of the most iconic bands in heavy music history. He speaks openly about the challenges of maintaining a career in music, particularly within a band known for its intensity. “You deal with a lot of ego throughout your career,” Clown noted, emphasizing the balance between personal and professional life in a band like Slipknot.
For Clown, Slipknot’s music is more than just a form of expression—it’s a form of catharsis. The physical toll of their performances is undeniable, and Clown, now 54, acknowledges the strain it has on him. “There’s no way to prepare for it. There’s no yoga or stretching or diet. There’s only a mindset,” he said, speaking about the demanding nature of Slipknot’s shows. Yet, despite the physical challenges, Clown feels he is performing better than ever, attributing his longevity to mental discipline and an unwavering commitment to his craft.
Beyond the physical demands, Clown has begun to grapple with deeper questions about his legacy and the meaning of his life’s work. “I’m taking a real good look at who I am, what I’ve done, and trying to acknowledge for myself what I actually did in this life,” he revealed. These reflections are not just about Slipknot’s success, but about Clown’s impact on the world and the people around him. This introspection has led him to a place of deeper connection with the band’s music and the fans who’ve been with them on this journey.
Looking Forward: Slipknot’s Future and Legacy
As Slipknot marks 25 years, the band’s future remains as exciting and unpredictable as ever. Knotfest has become a cornerstone of their legacy, providing a platform not just for their music but for the broader heavy music community. The band continues to evolve, with each album pushing the boundaries of their sound and each live show delivering the intensity their fans expect.
For Clown, the future of Slipknot is about balance—continuing to innovate while staying true to the raw emotion that has always been at the heart of their music. Whether it’s through Knotfest, new music, or their intense live shows, Slipknot shows no signs of slowing down. The band’s legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep connection with their fans, and as they celebrate this milestone, it’s clear that the Slipknot story is far from over.
In the words of Clown: “The whole purpose of having a festival is to give an entire day of that feeling… that’s the reason why I’m in this, is that feeling—to have a whole day of it is the best.” With Knotfest 2024 on the horizon and the band’s future looking bright, Slipknot continues to be a powerful force in the world of heavy music.
