Joey Jordison Drum Set & Kit — Pearl Masters, Paiste RUDE | MetalForge

Joey Jordison Biography

Joey Jordison (born Nathan Jonas Jordison; April 26, 1975 – July 26, 2021) was an American musician, songwriter, and record producer. Best known as the original drummer of Slipknot from 1995 to 2013, Jordison was widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential metal drummers of all time.

His blistering speed, technical precision, and theatrical stage presence—including performing on a rotating, inverted drum platform—made him an icon in the metal community. Beyond Slipknot, Jordison founded the horror punk band Murderdolls, played guitar for Rob Zombie's touring band, and drummed for numerous projects including Sinsaenum, Vimic, and a brief stint with Metallica in 2004.

Career Highlights

• 1995: Joined Slipknot (then known as The Pale Ones), becoming member #1
• 1999: Released Slipknot's self-titled debut album, achieving platinum status
• 2001: Released "Iowa," considered one of the heaviest albums ever recorded
• 2001: Formed Murderdolls with Wednesday 13, playing guitar
• 2002: Performed legendary drum solo on "Disasterpieces" live DVD
• 2004: Briefly filled in for Lars Ulrich on Metallica tour dates
• 2006: Voted #1 in Revolver Magazine's "Greatest Metal Drummers of All Time"
• 2008: Released "All Hope Is Gone," Slipknot's first #1 Billboard album
• 2010: Won Revolver Golden Gods Award for Best Drummer
• 2013: Parted ways with Slipknot; later revealed he had been battling transverse myelitis
• 2016: Formed Sinsaenum and Vimic; continued performing despite health challenges
• 2021: Passed away on July 26, 2021, leaving an immeasurable legacy

Style & Influences

Joey Jordison's drumming style combined extreme speed with surgical precision. He was capable of sustained blast beats at over 200 BPM while maintaining clarity and groove. His approach blended death metal technicality with nu-metal groove and punk energy.

Key Influences:
- Dave Lombardo (Slayer): Thrash metal double bass technique
- Gene Hoglan (Death): Technical death metal precision
- Tommy Lee (Mötley Crüe): Theatrical stage presence
- Buddy Rich: Jazz technique applied to metal

Signature Techniques:
- Sustained blast beats at extreme tempos
- Complex syncopated patterns on songs like "People = Shit"
- One-handed rolls and rapid-fire fills
- Performing while rotating upside down on his drum riser
- Seamless integration of electronic triggers with acoustic drums

Gear Highlights

Joey Jordison was a Pearl Drums endorser for most of his career, developing signature products that remain popular with metal drummers. His drum set was designed for speed, power, and durability during intense performances.

Signature Drum Set (Peak Slipknot Era):
- Drums: Pearl Reference Series in custom purple/black finishes
- Snare: Pearl Joey Jordison Signature 13"x6.5" (smaller diameter for faster response)
- Cymbals: Paiste RUDE and 2002 series (known for durability and cut)
- Hardware: Pearl Demon Drive double pedal; Pearl Icon rack system
- Sticks: Promark Joey Jordison Signature TX515W
- Heads: Evans (Hydraulic or EC2 series)

Notable Gear Innovations:
- Pioneered the rotating/inverted drum platform for theatrical performances
- Used a 13" snare (smaller than standard 14") for faster response
- Custom drum rack system to support the rotating rig
- Later switched to SJC Drums for post-Slipknot projects

For a complete era-by-era component breakdown, see the [Joey Jordison drum setup guide](/articles/joey-jordison-drum-setup).