Slipknot turntablist Sid Wilson has left the heavy metal band after nearly three decades, according to a since-deleted social media post from the group reported by Stereogum on Friday, Aug. 14.
Departure Details and Industry Precedents
The split marks another major lineup change for the Grammy-winning band in recent years. Wilson joined Slipknot in early 1998 as the ninth member, establishing an industrial-meets-nu-metal aesthetic with his turntable and keyboard work, alongside high-energy stage antics that included stage dives and climbing venue structures, as reported by the Daily Mail.
This exit follows a series of high-profile departures from the nonet. In 2019, according to Rolling Stone, the band parted ways with percussionist Chris Fehn amid a lawsuit over unpaid royalties. Keyboardist-sampler Craig Jones left in 2023, followed by the departure of drummer Jay Weinberg later that year due to what the band called a creative decision.
Personal Timeline and Context
Wilson’s exit follows a difficult personal period, as he announced his separation from fiancée Kelly Osbourne in March, according to the Daily Mail. The couple, who share a three-year-old son named Sidney, had quietly ended their engagement just seven months after Wilson proposed backstage at her late father’s final concert with Black Sabbath in Birmingham, according to the same outlet. Following the news of his firing, Osbourne posted a quote on Instagram stating that no one will smear a name more viciously than someone terrified of the truth being exposed, as noted by MetalheadZone.
Catalog Sale and Corporate Partnership
The lineup shift arrives as Slipknot transitions into a new business era. Last year, the band struck a deal with HarbourView Equity Partners, selling a majority stake in their catalog, which includes publishing and recording royalties. M Shawn “Crahan” Clown told The Hollywood Reporter at the time that the partnership aims to expand the band’s reach, stating that the new partner wants to go bigger.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Sid Wilson join Slipknot?
Sid Wilson joined Slipknot in early 1998 as the band’s turntablist and keyboardist, known by the designation #0.
Why did Sid Wilson leave Slipknot?
The band announced via a deleted social media post that they were no longer associated with Wilson, but neither the group nor Wilson has provided an official explanation for the departure.
Who else has recently left Slipknot?
Recent departures include percussionist Chris Fehn in 2019, keyboardist Craig Jones in 2023, and drummer Jay Weinberg in late 2023.
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