Korn’s bassist Fieldy has finally broken his silence on his controversial departure from the legendary nu-metal band. He revealed that his refusal to get vaccinated against COVID-19 was the primary reason behind his exit. In a candid interview, Fieldy explained the circumstances that led to his indefinite hiatus from the group he had been with for nearly three decades.
“COVID happened. That’s it. I’m like, ‘I’m not going out there.’ That’s what happened, ’cause it was new,” Fieldy stated. “Now. I’m like… The whole time — I mean, I didn’t get vaccinated or anything — but when you reflect on it, that’s what happened. They’re like, ‘We’re going to Florida and all this.’ And I’m like, ‘I’m not going to get vaccinated.’ I’m not going. I go, ‘People, this is weird right now.'”
The bassist reflected on his nearly 30-year tenure with Korn, describing the experience as transformative despite the difficult circumstances surrounding his departure. “Man, I look back at my life and like, you know, almost 30 years with Korn, that was a blast, man. I mean, it was… I can’t explain it. It’s like you’re going on you’re going to the ultimate [thrill]… It’s not easy. But it is a blast. I don’t look back going, ‘That sucked.'”
When asked about a potential return, Fieldy offered an ambiguous answer that left the door open for future possibilities. “I’m retired from Korn today, but we’ll see what the day brings tomorrow,” he said. This suggests that his current status is not necessarily permanent.
Fieldy’s candid remarks have shattered the long-standing narrative that had surrounded his absence from the band. They provide clarity on a situation that had remained somewhat mysterious to fans and the music industry alike.
Fieldy’s hiatus from Korn began around 2021, according to The Mosh Network. It stemmed primarily from COVID-19 concerns rather than being framed solely as a vaccination issue. The bassist’s reluctance to tour during the height of the pandemic became the catalyst for his indefinite break from the band. His departure marked a significant moment in Korn’s history, as the group had to navigate touring and recording without one of its founding members.
The timing of Fieldy’s exit coincided with Korn’s plans to resume touring, which included dates in Florida and other locations. Rather than compromise on his stance regarding vaccination and pandemic safety, Fieldy chose to step away from the band entirely. He prioritized his personal convictions over his professional commitments.
Korn brought in Robert “Ra” Diaz of Suicidal Tendencies to fill in for Fieldy while he sorted out his personal life, as reported by Concert Zone. This decision allowed the band to continue performing and recording without completely halting their operations during Fieldy’s indefinite hiatus. Ra Diaz’s involvement with the band provided stability during a transitional period that could have otherwise derailed Korn’s momentum.
