Korn - Drummer History & Gear | MetalForge
Korn, formed in 1993 in Bakersfield, California, is credited with pioneering the nu-metal genre.
Explore Korn's drummer history from David Silveria to Ray Luzier.
Korn History
Korn formed in Bakersfield, California in 1993, built around vocalist Jonathan Davis, guitarists James "Munky" Shaffer and Brian "Head" Welch, bassist Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu, and founding drummer David Silveria. Their self-titled 1994 debut fused down-tuned, groove-heavy riffs with hip-hop-influenced rhythm and raw, confessional lyrics, a combination widely credited with kickstarting the nu-metal genre.
Silveria's syncopated, hip-hop-inflected drumming anchored Korn through its most commercially dominant run, including the chart-topping Follow the Leader (1998) and Issues (1999). He departed in 2006 following the touring cycle for See You on the Other Side (2005), and after a 2007 self-titled album recorded with session drummers Terry Bozzio and Brooks Wackerman, Ray Luzier became Korn's full-time drummer in 2009, recording every album since Korn III: Remember Who You Are (2010).
Korn's blend of alternative metal aggression with radio-friendly hooks opened the door for the nu-metal explosion of the late 1990s and early 2000s, directly influencing bands like Limp Bizkit, Slipknot, and Linkin Park. More than three decades after forming, the band remains active and continues to headline major festivals worldwide.
Korn's Place in Metal Drumming
David Silveria's drumming style — built on tight hi-hat work, syncopated grooves borrowed from funk and hip-hop, and a comparatively restrained approach to double bass — was a deliberate departure from the thrash and death metal drumming that dominated heavy music in the early 1990s, and it became a blueprint for the groove-first approach that defined nu-metal drumming. Ray Luzier brought greater technical range to the kit from 2010 onward while preserving the groove pocket that made Korn's rhythm section distinctive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the drummer for Korn?
Ray Luzier has been Korn's drummer since 2007, becoming a full-time official member in 2009. His first studio album with the band was Korn III: Remember Who You Are (2010).
What happened to Korn's original drummer David Silveria?
Founding drummer David Silveria went on hiatus in December 2006 after touring for See You on the Other Side (2005), and left the band permanently. Korn's 2007 self-titled 'Untitled Album' was recorded using session drummers Terry Bozzio and Brooks Wackerman rather than a single official replacement.
Was there a drummer between David Silveria and Ray Luzier?
There was no single permanent replacement. Session players Terry Bozzio and Brooks Wackerman recorded the 2007 self-titled album, and Slipknot's Joey Jordison filled in on tour, before Ray Luzier was hired as the full-time drummer in 2007-2009.
Is bassist Fieldy still in Korn?
Reginald 'Fieldy' Arvizu has been on hiatus from Korn since 2021 and stated in May 2025 that he does not anticipate returning to the band.
Who played drums on Korn's "Korn"?
David Silveria played drums on "Korn" (1994).
Who played drums on Korn's "Requiem"?
Ray Luzier played drums on "Requiem" (2022).