In a recent chat with Andertons Music Co, Slipknot guitarist Jim Root opened up about the songwriting process within the band and Corey Taylor’s pivotal role in shaping their tracks. Root highlighted how decisions on song arrangements often hinge on Taylor’s input.
Discussing his collaboration with fellow guitarist Mick Thomson, Root explained, “Our approach depends on the song and how it’s developed—whether it’s a collective effort or something I’ve worked on at home. I always write with the whole band in mind, considering what Clown, [percussionist Michael] Pfaff, and the others might contribute. But the big question always is: What’s Corey going to do?”
Root described how Taylor’s creative instincts often redefine his initial arrangements. “I might write a four- or five-minute piece with a clear structure—intro, verse, pre-chorus, chorus, breakdown, and so on. But Corey might take what I envisioned as a verse and turn it into a chorus, or shift other sections around. I have to remain flexible and not get too attached to my original idea. Sometimes, he sings over what I send without making changes, and other times the song evolves completely.”
Root also touched on the dynamic between him and Thomson when it comes to guitar parts. “In the studio, Mick and I usually handle the left and right guitar tracks. If it’s a song I wrote, Mick might hear something in the rhythm and say, ‘That’s cool, but I have an idea.’ That’s amazing because it brings a new perspective and dimension to the song. It’s refreshing to have someone interpret your work in a way you didn’t imagine.”
Reflecting on the collaborative process, Root added, “When you’re too close to your work, it’s hard to see it objectively. But when Mick—or anyone else in the band—adds their touch, it can elevate the track to a whole new level. That’s the beauty of working together.”
Root’s insights shed light on the intricate teamwork and creative flexibility that define Slipknot’s music, demonstrating the trust and collaboration that fuel their distinctive sound.