Joey Jordison, the founding drummer of Slipknot, died on July 26, 2021, at the age of 46. His death was attributed to acute transverse myelitis, a rare neurological condition that had affected his mobility and ended his tenure with the band years earlier. Here is a complete, fact-based look at his life, illness, and legacy. For readers interested in other iconic musicians, the story of Elliott Smith – Biography, Death, and Musical Legacy offers a similarly deep dive into a life cut short.
What Caused Joey Jordison’s Death?
Nathan Jonas Jordison
April 26, 1975 – July 26, 2021 (age 46)
Original drummer of Slipknot
Acute transverse myelitis (confirmed by family)
- Joey Jordison’s death was caused by a rare inflammatory spinal cord condition, not substance abuse or suicide.
- He was one of the founding members of Slipknot and contributed to all albums up to .5: The Gray Chapter.
- Despite leaving Slipknot in 2013, he remained active in other projects including Murderdolls, Sinsaenum, and Vimic.
- He guest-performed with Metallica in 2004, fueling a persistent rumor that he was a member.
- He was diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis around 2010, which initially left him unable to play drums.
- Through rehabilitation, he regained mobility and continued making music until his death.
- His mask evolved throughout his career, from simple kabuki designs to Japanese oni-inspired masks.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | April 26, 1975 |
| Date of death | July 26, 2021 |
| Age at death | 46 years |
| Height | Approx. 5’6″ (167 cm) |
| Children | None |
| Main band | Slipknot (1995–2013) |
| Other bands | Murderdolls, Scar the Martyr, Vimic, Sinsaenum |
| Notable guest appearance | Played drums for Metallica in 2004 |
| Cause of death | Acute transverse myelitis |
| Official statement | Family confirmed he “passed away peacefully in his sleep” (July 2021) |
Jordison’s family stated that he died peacefully in his sleep. The cause was later identified as acute transverse myelitis, a rare neurological disorder involving inflammation of the spinal cord. This condition can cause leg weakness, sensory loss, and paralysis, and is often linked to immune disorders or infections. According to medical sources, about one third of patients recover fully, one third recover partially, and one third experience no recovery. There is no definitive cure.
The musician first revealed his diagnosis in 2016, explaining that the illness began around 2010 and cost him the use of his legs. He later regained mobility through intensive rehabilitation with a trainer. Some online speculation suggested alcohol played a role in his death, but official reports confirm he died peacefully, and his family has not supported those claims.
Some online discussions have claimed that Joey Jordison died from alcohol poisoning or suicide. These claims are not supported by official sources. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully in his sleep, and medical reports cite acute transverse myelitis as the cause.
How Old Was Joey Jordison? Height, Kids, and Other Personal Facts
When Was Joey Jordison Born?
Nathan Jonas Jordison was born on April 26, 1975, in Des Moines, Iowa. He grew up in the Midwest and started playing drums at age eight, forming several bands during high school before co-founding Slipknot in 1995.
How Tall Was Joey Jordison?
Joey Jordison was approximately 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) tall. This figure is commonly cited across biographical sources, though no official medical documentation of his height has been publicly released.
Did Joey Jordison Have Children?
No, Joey Jordison did not have any children. This is confirmed across all major biographical records.
Joey Jordison Young – What Was His Early Life Like?
Jordison grew up in Des Moines and developed an early passion for drumming. He played in local bands throughout his teenage years and met future Slipknot members Shawn Crahan and Paul Gray in the local music scene. Together they formed the band that would become one of the most successful metal acts in history.
Jordison began playing drums at age eight and was entirely self-taught. His aggressive, fast-paced style became a defining characteristic of Slipknot’s early sound and influenced a generation of metal drummers.
What Bands Did Joey Jordison Play In? Was He in Metallica?
Was Joey Jordison in Metallica?
No, Joey Jordison was never a member of Metallica. The confusion stems from a single guest appearance in 2004, when he filled in for Lars Ulrich at a show in Phoenix, Arizona. He performed admirably on short notice, but he never joined the band. The rumor persists largely because of the strength of that performance.
What Bands Did Joey Jordison Play In Besides Slipknot?
Jordison was a versatile musician who played in several notable projects. He was the guitarist and co-founder of the horror punk band Murderdolls. After leaving Slipknot, he formed the band Scar the Martyr in 2013 and later founded Vimic. He also played drums in the death metal supergroup Sinsaenum, which continued to release music after his death.
How Did Joey Jordison Start His Music Career?
He began drumming at age eight and played in local Iowa bands throughout his adolescence. In 1995, he co-founded Slipknot with percussionist Shawn Crahan and bassist Paul Gray. The band’s self-titled debut album was released in 1999 and quickly established them as a major force in heavy metal.
What Is Joey Jordison’s Legacy in Heavy Metal?
Jordison is widely regarded as one of the most influential metal drummers of his generation. His technical speed, complex rhythms, and theatrical stage presence helped define Slipknot’s sound. He contributed to all of the band’s studio albums from 1999 to 2013, and his departure marked a major shift in the group’s lineup.
Jordison was the designated member number 1 in Slipknot, a numbering system used by the band to identify each member. He was a founding member and remained with the group from its formation in 1995 until his departure in 2013.
What Is the Story Behind Joey Jordison’s Mask?
What Is the Meaning of Joey Jordison’s Mask?
Joey Jordison’s mask went through several design changes over his career. Early Slipknot masks were simple kabuki-style white face paint and leather masks. Later, his mask evolved into a Japanese demon or oni-inspired design. The mask was part of Slipknot’s overall concept of anonymity and theatrical performance, allowing the music to take center stage. Jordison personally appreciated the Japanese cultural aesthetic that influenced his later mask designs.
Why Did Joey Jordison Wear a Mask?
All Slipknot members wear masks as part of the band’s visual identity. The masks allow each member to become a character on stage and emphasize the collective over the individual. For Jordison, his mask number #1 identified him as the drummer and founding member.
Did Joey Jordison Have Multiple Masks?
Yes, his mask changed several times. The earliest designs were simpler leather and kabuki-style masks. Over time, they became more elaborate, incorporating Japanese oni features with horns and distinctive painted patterns. Each album cycle typically brought a new mask design.
When Did Key Events in Joey Jordison’s Life Unfold?
- 1975 – Born in Des Moines, Iowa, USA.
- 1995 – Co-founded Slipknot with Shawn Crahan and Paul Gray.
- 1999 – Slipknot releases its self-titled debut album.
- 2004 – Fills in for Lars Ulrich at a Metallica show in Phoenix, Arizona.
- 2010 – Releases album with Murderdolls titled “Women and Children Last”.
- 2013 – Leaves Slipknot; later revealed to be due to a spinal cord condition.
- 2016 – Reveals his diagnosis of acute transverse myelitis in interviews.
- 2021 – Passes away on July 26; cause announced as acute transverse myelitis.
What Is Certain and What Remains Unclear About Joey Jordison’s Health and Death?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Joey Jordison died on July 26, 2021 at age 46. | The exact date of his initial diagnosis of transverse myelitis is not publicly specified. |
| His family stated the cause of death was acute transverse myelitis. | Whether he was married or in a long-term relationship at the time of death is not confirmed in official sources. |
| He was not a member of Metallica, only performed with them once as a guest. | The specific design evolution of his masks lacks an authoritative single source. |
| He had no children. | |
| He left Slipknot in 2013 due to a neurological condition later diagnosed as transverse myelitis. |
How Did Transverse Myelitis and His Career Shape Joey Jordison’s Legacy?
Joey Jordison was a foundational figure in heavy metal drumming, known for his aggressive style and theatrical presence. His unexpected death prompted widespread speculation, which his family and medical records clarified as a rare autoimmune condition. Transverse myelitis is an inflammation of the spinal cord that can lead to paralysis, and it is not contagious nor linked to drug use.
Jordison’s contributions to Slipknot’s early sound and live shows are considered pivotal to the band’s success. His departure from Slipknot was initially attributed to “personal issues” but later understood as a health crisis. The Metallica rumor persists because he performed admirably under short notice, but he never officially joined the band.
Ongoing tributes continue from the metal community. Slipknot’s 2023 album “The End, So Far” was dedicated to both Jordison and Paul Gray. His band Sinsaenum continues to release music, keeping his legacy alive. A documentary or full biography covering his life and illness may eventually emerge, though no official announcement had been made as of 2025.
What Did Joey Jordison and Others Say About His Life and Illness?
“I got really sick with a horrible disease called transverse myelitis. I lost my legs. I could no longer play. It was a form of multiple sclerosis, which I don’t wish on my worst enemy.”
– Joey Jordison, speaking about his diagnosis (source: Louder Sound)
“I got myself back up, got myself in the gym, and back in therapy to beat this fucking shit. If I can do it, you can do it.”
– Joey Jordison, on his rehabilitation (source: Billboard)
“Joey passed away peacefully in his sleep. The family requests privacy at this time.”
– Official family statement (source: MetalTalk)
What Is the Complete Story of Joey Jordison’s Life and Death?
Joey Jordison was a pioneering drummer and co-founder of Slipknot who died at age 46 from acute transverse myelitis. He struggled with the condition for over a decade, regained mobility through therapy, and continued making music until his final days. His legacy as one of heavy metal’s most influential drummers is undisputed, even as some details of his personal life remain private. For further reading on iconic musicians and their legacies, see Elliott Smith – Biography, Death, and Musical Legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joey Jordison
What is acute transverse myelitis?
Acute transverse myelitis is a rare neurological disorder caused by inflammation of the spinal cord. It can lead to muscle weakness, sensory loss, and paralysis. It is not caused by drugs or alcohol and is often linked to immune system disorders.
What did Joey Jordison’s family say about his passing?
His family released a statement saying he “passed away peacefully in his sleep” and requested privacy. They later confirmed the cause as acute transverse myelitis.
What was Joey Jordison’s full name?
His full name was Nathan Jonas Jordison. He was known professionally as Joey Jordison.
What number did Joey Jordison wear in Slipknot?
He was designated as member number 1 in Slipknot, reflecting his status as a founding member and the band’s original drummer.
When did Joey Jordison leave Slipknot?
He left Slipknot in 2013. The departure was initially attributed to personal issues but was later understood to be related to his diagnosis of transverse myelitis.
Did Joey Jordison recover from transverse myelitis?
He regained mobility through physical therapy and gym work with a trainer named Caleb. However, no source confirms a full recovery, and the condition may have had lingering effects.
What bands did Joey Jordison form after leaving Slipknot?
He formed Scar the Martyr in 2013, later renamed Vimic. He also played drums in the death metal supergroup Sinsaenum, which continued to release music after his death.
Was Joey Jordison ever a member of Metallica?
No. He filled in for Lars Ulrich at one show in 2004, which led to a persistent rumor that he joined the band, but he never officially became a member.
Did Joey Jordison have children?
No, Joey Jordison did not have any children.
How did Joey Jordison start his music career?
He began drumming at age eight and played in local Iowa bands. In 1995, he co-founded Slipknot with Shawn Crahan and Paul Gray, which launched his career in heavy metal.
Jack Thomas Clarke Thompson is a staff writer for PopCultureDaily.co.uk, covering entertainment news, film, television, streaming and celebrity culture. He works under Editor-in-Chief Harriet Winslow and Managing Editor Lucas Bennett, following the newsroom standards for sourcing, verification and fact-checking set out in our editorial policies.