Both Slipknot and Mushroomhead are known for wearing masks on stage, and fans have been debating which band started the trend first. Mushroomhead was formed in 1993 and began using masks early in their career, while Slipknot, formed in 1995, made masks a big part of their image. Let’s learn the history of both bands and find out who really wore masks first.
The Reason Behind the Feud
According to MTV News, Mushroomhead received frequent accusations of copying Slipknot’s aesthetic. The band consistently said they were the first to adopt the masked appearance.
Louder Sound reports that tensions escalated after a specific incident. Ex-frontman Jeff Hatrix publicly labeled Slipknot as ‘Roadrunner-invented clones’ of Mushroomhead. This statement fueled the rivalry for years.
The supposed feud reached its peak during a 1999 Slipknot performance in Cleveland, Mushroomhead’s hometown. As per Metal Underground, Corey Taylor later revealed the real tension existed between the fans rather than the bands.
He recalled, “The first time we played Cleveland fans came down, did not say sh*t and his fans down and threw stones against us. They beat Paul in the face with a padlock the size of my fist; this [happened] while we were on stage. When we finished playing, we took all our sh*t and went to the hearing.”
Similarities and Differences
The visual parallels between the bands are undeniable. Mushroomhead’s style features individually designed black leather masks for all members except Mann. He opted for face makeup instead. The band wears matching military attire, and it distinguishes them from Slipknot’s jumpsuit style.
Both bands have distinctly different musical approaches, though. Slipknot built their sound around a four-percussionist assault. Mushroomhead has a more melodic experience centered on dual vocals and keyboards. Their musical background drew from hip-hop, funk, hardcore, and techno influences.
Origins of the Masks
Louder confirms Mushroomhead’s mask tradition began in 1993 when the band formed. The members needed to conceal their identities during performances. They were involved in other bands at the time. Mushroomhead’s formation predated Slipknot by two years, so it was them who wore masks at first.
Loudwire documents the evolution of both bands’ mask designs. Mushroomhead maintained their dark, industrial aesthetic throughout the years. Slipknot’s masks became increasingly personalized. Each member’s design reflected their individual persona within the band.
They Now Moved On
By 2009, both groups moved past the controversy and developed a friendly relationship.
Mushroomhead’s Felton reflected on the past conflict. “I guess it happened and does it f*cking matter? It’s just like a silly fan-fueled and media hype thing to talk about,” he said. Jeffrey ‘Nothing’ Hatrix added his perspective: “Fans are very loyal to the bands they like. Members of both sides have said they are over it. It was never really between the bands. Let’s all move on.”
