At the Sonic Temple festival in Columbus, Ohio last weekend, Slipknot performed without their percussionist M. Shawn ‘Clown’ Crahan.
Before launching into their fourth song on May 19, lead singer Corey Taylor addressed the audience regarding Clown’s absence, expressing concern for his health:
“First things first, we’re missing one of our brothers. Clown broke a tooth yesterday and had to get it removed. There were complications, so he had to stay home for medical reasons. But he insisted we come here and put on this show for each and every one of you.”
Taylor went on to emphasize Clown’s importance to the band:
“He is missed. He is essential, and on the count of three, I want you to tell him how much he is loved. I want to hear you scream! ONE! TWO! THREE!”
This isn’t the first time Crahan has had to miss a performance. Last June, he was absent from several shows to be with his wife, who was facing health issues. He did, however, rejoin the band for the Download festival and a few other dates before needing to leave again. At the time, he shared on social media:
“Hello to all our fans. Unfortunately, I had to return home to be with my wife due to her medical situation. Thank you for the overwhelming support at the few shows I was able to attend. I’m sorry for missing the rest. I was really looking forward to being there. Your support for our family is deeply appreciated. See you all at our shows in July. Hail Slipknot.”
Sonic Temple marked Slipknot’s fourth show with their new drummer, Eloy Casagrande. Prior to this, the band played in Pioneertown, California on April 25, Las Vegas, Nevada on April 27, and Daytona Beach, Florida on May 12. To celebrate their 25th anniversary, Slipknot donned their iconic 1999 red jumpsuits and updated their early masks for these performances.
