Joey Jordison, a founding member of Slipknot, died in his sleep on Monday. He was 46 years old.
While the cause of death is unknown, his family confirmed his death to Rolling Stone.
“Joey’s death has left us with empty hearts and feelings of indescribable sorrow,” the drummer’s family said in a statement to Rolling Stone. “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 also asked that fans and the media respect their privacy and time for grieving.
Music outlets and fans alike shared their sympathies and paid homage to the late metal drummer on Twitter.
“We are saddened by the news of the passing of our dear friend, Joey Jordison,” metal band Trivium wrote on Twitter. ” From being able to share the stage with him numerous times throughout the years to Matt standing alongside him for the Roadrunner United album. He was always super gracious to all of us in Trivium. Whenever we toured with them, his songwriting and playing helped shape what metal is today. Our condolences to his friends and family. Thank you, Joey. Rest In Peace.”
“I am shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Joey Jordison,” Slayer drummer Dave Lobardo wrote. “An incredible musician and songwriter, gone way too soon. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who he touched with his talent. RIP Joey.”
“I don’t have words, to call him an inspiration would be an understatement,” Trivium’s drummer Alex Bent wrote. “Countless hours studying every move behind the kit . I owe so much to Joey Jordison and could never imagine being where I am today without his influence. RIP.”
Jordison formed the metal band in his native state of Iowa in 1995 with bassist Paul Gray and percussionist Shawn Crahan. In 2013, Jordison left the band, but three years later, he claimed he was fired in an interview with Metal Hammer.
He also announced that nearing the end of his departure from the band, he was diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a form of multiple sclerosis, which caused him to not be able to play. It is unknown if his condition is correlated with his death.
While Jordison was still a member of Slipknot, the band’s notoriety skyrocketed. They reached spots in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200, and in 2008, achieved the highly coveted No. 1 place for the album “All Hope is Gone.”
In addition to playing for Slipknot, Jordison also played guitar for Murderdolls, drums in Scar the Martyr and was most recently the drummer for Sinsaenum prior to his passing.
Jordison’s death is preceded by Slipknot bassist Paul Gray, who died of a morphine overdose in 2010.
