13 Facts About Deftones

Deftones' Formation and Early Days

Deftones, an American alternative metal band, have a rich history filled with interesting tidbits. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about their journey.

1. Deftones formed in 1988 in Sacramento, California. The original lineup included Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Abe Cunningham, and Dominic Garcia.

2. The band's name, Deftones, combines "def" (a slang term for cool) with "tones," reflecting their musical style's blend of heavy and melodic elements.

3. Before Deftones, Chino Moreno and Stephen Carpenter played together in a high school band called "The Martyrs."

Breakthrough and Success

Deftones' rise to fame wasn't overnight. Their persistence and unique sound eventually paid off, leading to widespread recognition.

4. Their debut album, "Adrenaline," released in 1995, was produced by Terry Date. Despite initial slow sales, it eventually went platinum.

5. The band's second album, "Around the Fur," released in 1997, featured the hit single "My Own Summer (Shove It)," which gained significant airplay on MTV.

6. Deftones won a Grammy Award in 2001 for Best Metal Performance for their song "Elite" from the album "White Pony."

Musical Style and Influence

Deftones are known for their distinctive sound, blending various genres and influences to create something truly unique.

7. Their music incorporates elements of alternative metal, shoegaze, dream pop, and post-hardcore, making them difficult to categorize.

8. Chino Moreno cites bands like The Cure, Depeche Mode, and Duran Duran as major influences on his vocal style and lyrical themes.

9. Stephen Carpenter's guitar playing is heavily influenced by metal bands like Meshuggah and Fear Factory, contributing to Deftones' heavy yet melodic sound.

Band Dynamics and Side Projects

The members of Deftones have explored various side projects and collaborations, showcasing their versatility and creativity.

10. Chino Moreno has a side project called "Crosses" (stylized as †††), which explores a more electronic and ambient sound compared to Deftones.

11. Stephen Carpenter has collaborated with other artists, including a guest appearance on the song "Reptile" by the band Periphery.

12. Abe Cunningham briefly left Deftones in the early '90s to join another band, Phallucy, but returned to Deftones before the recording of "Adrenaline."

Tragedy and Resilience

Despite facing significant challenges, Deftones have shown remarkable resilience and dedication to their music.

13. In 2008, bassist Chi Cheng was involved in a serious car accident that left him in a semi-conscious state. The band continued to support him and his family until his passing in 2013. Sergio Vega, formerly of Quicksand, stepped in as the band's bassist during this difficult period.

The Final Note on Deftones

Deftones have carved a unique niche in the music world with their genre-blending sound and emotional depth. From their early days in Sacramento to becoming a global sensation, they've consistently pushed boundaries. Their albums, like "White Pony" and "Diamond Eyes," showcase their evolution and versatility. The band's resilience, especially after bassist Chi Cheng's tragic accident, highlights their dedication and passion. Fans appreciate their raw, authentic lyrics and innovative music. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to their sound, Deftones offer something special. Their influence on modern rock and metal is undeniable, and their legacy continues to grow. Dive into their discography, and you'll find a band that's not afraid to experiment and evolve. Deftones remain a testament to the power of music to connect, inspire, and endure.