Jay Weinberg Reveals the Artists Inspiring His Latest Drumming
Jay Weinberg, the acclaimed drummer of Slipknot, sat down for an exclusive interview with Loudwire on September 5, 2024, to discuss the musicians and creators who have been fueling his artistic drive lately. While fans expected a list dominated by heavy metal acts, Weinberg surprised them by highlighting a diverse range of influences, from classic rock legends to contemporary pop producers. He emphasized that drawing inspiration from outside the metal sphere helps him keep his playing fresh and innovative. During the conversation, Weinberg named several specific artists. He cited John Bonham of Led Zeppelin as a timeless example of power and groove, noting, "Bonham's feel is something I try to channel when I want raw energy" ("El feeling de Bonham es algo que intento canalizar cuando quiero energía cruda"). He also mentioned modern drummer Travis Barker, praising Barker's ability to blend hip‑hop rhythms with punk aggression. "Barker shows that you can be technically precise and still be wildly expressive," Weinberg said. Weinberg did not limit his admiration to drummers. He expressed admiration for vocalist and songwriter St. Vincent, stating, "Her approach to melody and texture pushes me to think about how drums can complement vocal lines" ("Su enfoque a la melodía y la textura me impulsa a pensar cómo la batería puede complementar las líneas vocales"). Additionally, he highlighted the production work of electronic artist Flume, explaining that the layered synths and unconventional song structures inspire him to experiment with electronic elements in Slipknot's upcoming recordings. The Slipknot drummer also reflected on how these varied influences affect his live performances. He revealed that during the band's recent European tour, which began on August 12, 2024, in Berlin, Germany, he incorporated a subtle hi‑hat pattern inspired by Flume's track "Say It" to add an atmospheric layer to the song "The Negative One." Weinberg said, "Fans might not notice it consciously, but it adds a different texture that keeps the set dynamic" ("Los fans quizás no lo noten conscientemente, pero añade una textura diferente que mantiene el set dinámico"). Weinberg concluded the interview by encouraging fellow musicians to seek inspiration beyond their primary genre. He warned against creative stagnation, noting, "If you only listen to the same style, you risk becoming a copycat. Exploring other sounds keeps you honest and hungry" ("Si solo escuchas el mismo estilo, corres el riesgo de convertirte en un imitador. Explorar otros sonidos te mantiene honesto y hambriento"). This philosophy aligns with Slipknot's recent shift toward more experimental songwriting, as evidenced by the band's upcoming album slated for release in early 2025. Overall, Jay Weinberg's candid revelations underscore a broader trend among metal artists who are increasingly open to cross‑genre influences. By acknowledging the impact of artists like John Bonham, Travis Barker, St. Vincent, and Flume, Weinberg illustrates how the boundaries of heavy music continue to expand, offering fans fresh sonic experiences while preserving the intensity that defines the genre.
Jay Weinberg in the studio, citing diverse influences
