Co-founder Slipknot Joey Jordison Has Passed Away, Age 46

Slipknot co-founder and original drummer Joey Jordison has passed away at age 46. 

The statement confirming Jordison's death has been shared today. 

"We are heartbroken to share the news that Joey Jordison, prolific drummer, musician and artist passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 26, 2021. He was 46,” read the statement. 

"Joey’s death has left us with empty hearts and feelings of indescribable sorrow. To those that knew Joey, understood his quick wit, his gentle personality, giant heart and his love for all things family and music. 

"The family of Joey have asked that friends, fans and media understandably respect our need for privacy and peace at this incredibly difficult time. The family will hold a private funeral service and asks the media and public to respect their wishes."

Jordison was a founding member of the Iowa heavy group, forming Slipknot in 1995 alongside percussionist Shawn Crahan and bass player Paul Gray (who passed away in 2010). They would later be joined by vocalist Anders Colsefni. Colsefni was replaced by best-known vocalist Corey Taylor in 1997, joining the group alongside Jordison, Crahan, Gray, Craig Jones, Mick Thomson, Sid Wilson, Chris Fehn and Jim Root to form their best-known line-up. 

The group would go on to win the Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance their 2006 track Before I Forget.

Jordison left Slipknot in December 2013 with the group citing personal reasons for the exit. It's believed that Jordison's diagnosis with acute transverse myelitis played a significant role in his exit from the group. 

He has also played in groups like Murderdolls, Vimic, Sinsaenum and more.