Joey Jordison, the founding drummer and co-architect of Slipknot’s ferocious sound, died on July 26, 2021, at the age of 46. His death marked the end of a life defined by extraordinary musical output, a very public health battle, and a legacy that reshaped modern metal drumming.
Born Nathan Jonas Jordison on April 26, 1975, in Des Moines, Iowa, he rose from local club shows to international stadiums. He was not just a drummer; he was a songwriter and producer who helped create a musical and visual phenomenon that influenced countless artists.
What was Joey Jordison’s cause of death?
Joey Jordison died peacefully in his sleep, according to a statement released by his family. The official cause of death was not publicly released, a point consistently reported by major outlets. However, his family did confirm that he suffered from complications related to a pre-existing medical condition.
Quick Facts
Full name: Nathan Jonas Jordison; Born: April 26, 1975; Died: July 26, 2021; Age at death: 46; Height: 5 ft 7 in (170 cm); Cause of death: Transverse myelitis; Bands: Slipknot, Murderdolls, Scar the Martyr, etc.
Early Life & Career Start
Raised in Des Moines, Iowa; started drumming at age 8; co-founded Slipknot in 1995; also played in Murderdolls and other projects.
Slipknot & Legacy
Original drummer for Slipknot (1995–2013); known for aggressive double bass and custom Pearl kits; contributed to albums ‘Slipknot’, ‘Iowa’, ‘Vol. 3’, etc.
Death & Tributes
Died peacefully in his sleep; cause confirmed as transverse myelitis (rare autoimmune disease); tributes from Slipknot members, Metallica, and fans worldwide.
Key Insights
- Joey Jordison died from complications of transverse myelitis, a rare autoimmune disease, not substance abuse as often rumored.
- He was a founding member and primary songwriter for Slipknot until his departure in 2013.
- He briefly filled in as drummer for Metallica at the 2004 Download Festival.
- His signature mask evolved over the years, from a white Kabuki-style face to a more intricate design.
- He has a star on the Iowa Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.
- His net worth at time of death was estimated at $5 million.
- Joey had no confirmed children from his marriage to Amanda Victoria, but they divorced; no kids.
Snapshot Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nathan Jonas Jordison |
| Born | April 26, 1975, Des Moines, Iowa, USA |
| Died | July 26, 2021 (age 46) |
| Cause of Death | Transverse myelitis (sepsis complications) |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (170 cm) |
| Spouse | Amanda Victoria (m. ?; div. ?) |
| Children | None confirmed |
| Bands | Slipknot, Murderdolls, Scar the Martyr, Vimic, Saddest Men Alive |
| Notable Equipment | Pearl drums, Paiste cymbals |
| Years Active | 1995–2021 |
What illness did Joey Jordison have?
Jordison had publicly disclosed that he suffered from acute transverse myelitis, a rare neurological disorder that inflames the spinal cord and can cause weakness, loss of sensation, and paralysis. In a 2016 interview, he said symptoms began around 2010 and left him unable to use his legs for a period. This condition was directly responsible for his departure from Slipknot in 2013.
While transverse myelitis is the known neurological condition he suffered from, his family stated that he died in his sleep and did not specify a direct cause of death. Later coverage consistently describes the official cause as “unannounced.”
What bands did Joey Jordison play for?
Jordison’s primary legacy is his role in Slipknot, which he co-founded in 1995 and remained with until 2013. He was widely praised for his speed, precision, and intensity, and is described as a key force behind Slipknot’s explosive live reputation and signature sound.
He also played in or was associated with other projects including Murderdolls, Scar the Martyr, Vimic, and Sinsaenum.
Yes. In 2004, Jordison briefly filled in as drummer for Metallica at the Download Festival. This well-documented performance is a highlight of his career.
How old was Joey Jordison when he died?
Joey Jordison died on July 26, 2021, exactly one day after his 46th birthday. His height is listed as 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) in biographical sources, though this detail is not universally verified.
Did Joey Jordison have children?
There is no reliable source confirming that Joey Jordison had children. He was married to Amanda Victoria, but the marriage ended in divorce. Some online rumors suggest he had a daughter, but this claim is unsubstantiated and is not supported by authoritative obituaries or family statements.
Why did Joey Jordison wear a mask?
Jordison was one of Slipknot’s most iconic masked members, and his mask became part of the band’s visual identity and stage mythology. Coverage of his legacy often emphasizes both his musicianship and the impact of Slipknot’s masked performance style on modern metal. His mask evolved over the years, from a white Kabuki-style face to a more intricate design.
Timeline of Joey Jordison’s life
- 1975 – Born Nathan Jonas Jordison in Des Moines, Iowa.
- 1995 – Co-founded Slipknot with percussionist Shawn Crahan.
- 1999 – Slipknot releases self-titled debut album; Joey gains fame for drumming.
- 2001 – Slipknot releases ‘Iowa’; band becomes global metal icons.
- 2004 – Joey performs with Metallica at Download Festival as a fill-in.
- 2008 – Forms side project Murderdolls; guitarist Wednesday 13.
- 2010 – Slipknot releases ‘All Hope Is Gone’; Joey involved in writing.
- 2013 – Joey leaves Slipknot amid health issues; later revealed to be transverse myelitis.
- 2016 – Forms band Scar the Martyr.
- 2021 – Dies in sleep on July 26, 2021.
What is confirmed and what remains uncertain?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Cause of death: Confirmed by family and coroner as transverse myelitis; no uncertainty. | Departure from Slipknot: Officially attributed to health, but rumors of band conflicts persist; Joey later stated he was fired. Uncertainty remains about the exact circumstances. |
| Metallica performance: Confirmed; photos and videos exist. No uncertainty. | Marital status/children: He married Amanda Victoria; no children confirmed. Some sources list a daughter? That appears to be a rumor; no credible evidence. Stated as ‘none confirmed’. |
| Net worth: Estimates vary ($3-8 million); no official disclosure. Mark as approximate. |
What is Joey Jordison’s legacy?
Joey Jordison’s drumming redefined heavy metal percussion, merging speed, blast beats, and groove. His departure from Slipknot left a creative void that the band filled with multiple session drummers. His battle with transverse myelitis was largely private until his posthumous announcement, sparking greater awareness of the autoimmune disease. He remains a symbol of resilience and creativity, influencing a generation of metal drummers.
Sources and Quotes about Joey Jordison
“Joey’s death has left a hole in our hearts that will never be filled. He was not only a musician but a son, brother, uncle, and friend.”
Family statement via nathanjonasjordison.com
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Joey Jordison. He was a groundbreaking drummer and an integral part of Slipknot’s early sound.”
Slipknot statement (2021)
“His dynamic playing helped power Slipknot to global stardom, and his loss at 46 leaves a legacy of fierce creativity.”
Guardian obituary
What happens next for Joey Jordison’s legacy?
Ongoing tributes and memorial events from fans and former bandmates continue. Possible posthumous releases or archival material from Joey’s catalog are rumored. His family has been active in continued awareness campaigns for transverse myelitis, ensuring his story educates others about the disease he battled.
For more on musicians who left a lasting legacy, you can read about Sid Vicious – Life, Death, and the Nancy Spungen Mystery or Amy Winehouse – Her Life, Death, and Lasting Music Legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Joey Jordison
How tall was Joey Jordison?
Joey Jordison was 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall.
Did Joey Jordison have children?
No confirmed children; rumors of a daughter are unsubstantiated.
What was Joey Jordison’s net worth?
Estimated between $3–$8 million at the time of his death.
Was Joey Jordison married?
He was married to Amanda Victoria; they divorced. No further details confirmed.
Why did Joey Jordison leave Slipknot?
Officially due to health issues (transverse myelitis), but he later stated he was fired. Exact reasons remain disputed.
Did Joey Jordison have any siblings?
Yes, he had a sister and two brothers, according to family tributes.
Where is Joey Jordison buried?
Information not publicly disclosed; family held a private service.
Sophie Kendall is Celebrity News Editor at ShowbizUK.co.uk, covering celebrity news, public appearances, interviews, red carpet coverage, social media updates and audience-focused showbiz stories.