40 Facts About Deftones

Formation and Early Years

Deftones have been a significant force in the music industry since their formation in 1988. Their journey began in Sacramento, California, and they've been captivating audiences ever since.

1. Deftones were formed in Sacramento, California in 1988 by frontman Chino Moreno, lead guitarist Stephen Carpenter, and drummer Abe Cunningham.
2. The band's early lineup also included bassist Chi Cheng and keyboardist Frank Delgado, who joined in 1990 and 1999, respectively.

Breakthrough Albums

Deftones' early albums laid the foundation for their unique sound, blending aggressive metal with experimental elements.

3. Deftones released their debut album, "Adrenaline," in 1995, marking their entry into the music scene.
4. Their second album, "Around the Fur," released in 1997, reached chart positions and became the band's first album to receive certification from the RIAA.
5. Deftones' third album, "White Pony," released in 2000, marked a significant transition in their sound from aggressive metal to a more experimental direction.

Chino Moreno's Unique Style

Chino Moreno's vocal style and personal influences have played a crucial role in shaping Deftones' sound.

6. Chino Moreno's vocal style is distinctive, blending melodic singing with intense screams.
7. Deftones' influences are diverse, ranging from Faith No More and Primus to Bad Brains and Meshuggah.
8. Chino Moreno has also cited Prince, The Cure, and Duran Duran as personal influences.

Experimental Nature

Deftones are known for their willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds, setting them apart from other bands in the metal genre.

9. Deftones often incorporate elements from various genres such as dream pop, drone rock, and post-metal into their music.
10. The band members were brought together by skateboarding, which has significantly influenced their music and style.

Side Projects

Chino Moreno's side projects showcase his experimental side and blend of electronic and rock music.

11. Chino Moreno has been involved in various side projects, including Team Sleep, ††† (Crosses), and Palms.
12. In 2000, Moreno formed Team Sleep, which released its self-titled debut album in 2005.
13. Moreno collaborated with Shaun Lopez of Far to form the band ††† (Crosses) in 2011.
14. Moreno also joined forces with members of Isis to create the supergroup Palms, releasing an album in 2013.

Personal Life and Interests

Despite his public persona, Chino Moreno keeps much of his personal life private and has a range of interests outside of music.

15. Chino Moreno married his high school sweetheart, Celeste Schroeder, in 1997 but later divorced.
16. He has three children: two sons, Kristian and Jakobi, and a daughter, Lola.
17. Moreno is a fan of horror movies, citing "The Exorcist" and "The Shining" as his favorites.
18. He has several tattoos, including a large dragon on his back and a koi fish on his arm.
19. Chino Moreno is known for his unique fashion sense, often sporting vintage band tees and sneakers.
20. Despite his intense stage presence, Moreno is known to be shy and soft-spoken in person.
21. He is a huge fan of the TV show "Twin Peaks" and often references it in his music.
22. Before Deftones achieved mainstream success, Chino Moreno worked as a janitor.

Awards and Recognition

Deftones have received numerous accolades and critical acclaim throughout their career.

23. Deftones' third album, "White Pony," won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2001.
24. Deftones' albums have consistently received critical acclaim, solidifying their place in rock history.
25. The band's fifth studio effort, "Saturday Night Wrist," released in 2006, received similar praise but was marred by creative tensions and personal issues within the band.
26. In 2020, Deftones released their ninth studio album, "Ohms," to widespread acclaim.

Live Performances and Fan Base

Deftones are known for their powerful live performances and dedicated fan base.

27. Deftones continue to tour extensively, delivering energetic shows that reflect their diverse musical style.
28. Chino Moreno has been involved in various charity projects, including benefit concerts for mental health awareness.
29. Moreno remains active on social media, engaging with fans and sharing updates on his projects.
30. Deftones have a dedicated fan base that appreciates their unique sound and emotional depth.

Influence on Other Artists

Deftones' genre-blending sound has paved the way for many bands and artists.

31. Chino Moreno's vocal style has influenced a generation of rock and metal singers.
32. Deftones' genre-blending sound has paved the way for bands like Linkin Park and Korn.
33. Moreno was ranked #51 on Hit Parader's list of "Top 100 Metal Vocalists of All Time."

Evolution of Musical Style

Deftones' musical style has evolved significantly over the years, incorporating elements from various genres.

34. Deftones' musical style has evolved significantly over the years, incorporating elements from various genres such as shoegaze, post-hardcore, and post-metal.
35. Deftones are often associated with experimental rock due to their incorporation of unconventional sounds and techniques into their music.
36. The band's sound has been influenced by dream pop, a genre characterized by its ethereal and atmospheric qualities.
37. Deftones have also incorporated elements of drone rock into their music, creating a rich and layered sound.
38. The band's post-metal soundscapes are characterized by their use of complex time signatures and atmospheric instrumentation.
39. Deftones have been influenced by art rock, which emphasizes creativity and experimentation in music.
40. Although Deftones were often associated with the nu metal movement in the press, Chino Moreno has emphatically rejected this label.

Deftones' Lasting Impact

Deftones have left an indelible mark on rock and metal music. From their early days in Sacramento to their Grammy-winning success, they've consistently pushed musical boundaries. Albums like "White Pony" and "Ohms" showcase their evolution, blending genres like shoegaze, post-metal, and dream pop. Chino Moreno's unique vocal style and the band's experimental nature set them apart, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Their influence extends to bands like Linkin Park and Korn, who credit Deftones as inspirations. Beyond music, their commitment to social causes and connection with fans highlight their enduring legacy. Deftones continue to captivate audiences with powerful live performances and innovative music, proving their relevance in the ever-changing music landscape. Their journey reflects a blend of creativity, passion, and resilience, ensuring their place in rock history for years to come.