After a decade-long run with Slipknot, drummer Jay Weinberg expressed his shock and disappointment at being let go from the band. The announcement, made on November 5 via social media, cited a creative decision for parting ways with Weinberg. The drummer played his final show on November 3 at the Hell & Heaven festival in Mexico. The announcement, initially made through a social media post that was later deleted, was confirmed by Weinberg six days later.
On November 11, Weinberg broke his silence, sharing his feelings on social media, expressing:
“I sometimes wonder what it would be like to pay a visit to my wide-eyed, 10-year-old self — falling head over heels in love with a new and exciting sound and culture — and tell him all about the last 10 years. Even on the hardest days, I’d like to think he’d be stoked about the adventure that was in store for him. I was heartbroken and blindsided to receive the phone call that I did on the morning of November 5; the news of which, most of you learned shortly after. However, I’ve been overwhelmed by — and truly grateful for — the outpouring of love and support I’ve received from this incredible community I consider to be my creative and artistic home. This is not the ending to the journey I’d dreamt of, and committed myself to seeing through — not by a long shot. But, despite the confusion and sadness, there is something that’s provided an equal amount of comfort. For many of you reading this: 10 years ago, we weren’t yet acquainted. And now, we are. For that, I’m thankful in ways I’ll never be able to fully express. I love playing the drums. I’ll always love playing the drums. I’ll always have a passion for music, art, and creative expression. Nothing will ever change that. I don’t know how, and I don’t know when, but I look forward to creating loud, passionate, and heartfelt music that we enjoy together again. Until then, please know it’s been the joy of a lifetime to spend the last 10 years with you, sharing in our love for this special corner of the music and art world. This isn’t the end, and I’m thrilled to discover what the future has in store for us. Thank you.”
Slipknot, in their departure statement, thanked Weinberg for his dedication and passion over the past ten years. The band acknowledged that while no one can replace Joey Jordison’s original sound, style, or energy, Jay honored Joey’s parts and contributed to the last three albums.
Weinberg’s colleagues have shared words of encouragement via the comment section of his post, supporting what’s next to come as he embarks on his next chapter.
Matt Sorum, former Guns N’ Roses and Velvet Revolver drummer, stated:
“You’re just beginning pal , in life …one door shuts and another one opens. Life is hills and valleys and you’ve climbed the mountain to the top. It’s what makes us grateful and as a journeyman drummer myself more will be revealed!! The future is bright for you and all of us , can’t wait to see the next adventure !! Rock on Brother”
Other artists, including Aquiles Priester, Eloy Casagrande, Charlie Engen, Mike Portnoy, Tré Cool, Alex Gonzalez, and Chris Mora, expressed their support for Weinberg’s future career. Weinberg’s father, Max, of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band, wrote:
“For 33 years you’ve made your mom and I 100% proud. This moment is no exception. You’re a class act! Love Dad.”
Since the public announcement and retraction from the post, Slipknot has yet to address the reason behind the split, along with their decision to remove the public reveal.
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