Follow The Leader: Korn’s Iconic Nu-Metal Revolution

Introduction

In the summer of 1998, the music world witnessed a seismic shift with the release of Korn’s third studio album, Follow The Leader. A groundbreaking entry in the burgeoning nu-metal genre, the album not only solidified Korn’s place as pioneers of the sound but also propelled the genre into mainstream consciousness. The album’s blend of raw emotion, heavy riffs, and hip-hop influences resonated with a generation looking for something fresh and defiant.

This article delves into the intricate details of Follow The Leader, from its inception and recording process to its commercial success and enduring legacy. We will explore the creative minds behind the album, analyze its critical reception, and examine its influence on both contemporaries and future artists.

Upon its release, Follow The Leader quickly ascended the charts, peaking at number one on the Billboard 200 and earning multiple platinum certifications. Its singles, such as “Freak on a Leash” and “Got the Life,” became anthems of the era, with their music videos dominating MTV airwaves. Jonathan Davis, Korn’s frontman, reflected on the album’s impact, stating, “It was the first time we felt we were part of something bigger than ourselves.”

As we delve into the making and legacy of Follow The Leader, we uncover the stories and challenges faced by Korn during this pivotal moment in their career.

The Genesis of “Follow The Leader”

The late 1990s were a transformative period in music, marked by the rise of alternative rock and the emergence of nu-metal. Korn, having already made a significant impact with their previous albums, Korn and Life Is Peachy, were poised to take their sound to new heights. Follow The Leader was conceived during a time when the band sought to expand their musical boundaries while maintaining the raw intensity that had garnered them a dedicated following.

Korn’s evolution leading up to Follow The Leader was shaped by their relentless touring schedule and the growing nu-metal movement. Their debut album, Korn, introduced their distinctive sound—a fusion of heavy metal and hip-hop influences. With Life Is Peachy, they continued to refine their style, setting the stage for the ambitious leap they would take with their third album.

The creative forces behind Follow The Leader included not only the band members but also a host of collaborators. Notable guest artists such as Ice Cube, Tre Hardson, and Fred Durst lent their voices to the project, adding diverse textures to Korn’s sound. The album’s title was inspired by the idea of leading a movement, with bassist Reginald “Fieldy” Arvizu explaining, “We wanted to show that we were not just followers but leaders in this new genre.”

Below is a table listing the band members and their roles in the album’s creation:

The album’s recording costs were financed by their label, Immortal/Epic, with a substantial budget that allowed for creative freedom. Despite this, financial challenges arose due to the band’s ambitious vision and the need for re-recording certain tracks after parting ways with initial producer Steve Thompson. The album’s artwork, designed by Todd McFarlane, features a haunting depiction of children playing on the edge of a cliff, symbolizing the album’s themes of innocence lost and societal pressures.

Recording Process

The recording of Follow The Leader was as intense and dynamic as the music itself. Taking place from March to May 1998 at NRG Recording Studios in North Hollywood, California, the sessions were marked by both creative breakthroughs and personal challenges. The studio, known for its state-of-the-art facilities, provided the perfect backdrop for Korn’s ambitious project.

Steve Thompson and Toby Wright were initially brought on as producers, with Wright eventually taking the lead role. Their previous work included collaborations with iconic bands like Metallica and Alice In Chains, bringing a wealth of experience to the table. The production team was tasked with capturing Korn’s raw energy while pushing the boundaries of their sound.

During the recording process, a variety of hardware was utilized, although specific details are assumed based on the studio’s known equipment at the time:

Recording sessions were often chaotic, with anecdotes of late-night parties and personal conflicts. Vocalist Jonathan Davis recalled recording his vocals amidst the chaos, describing it as “the craziest shit I’ve ever seen in my life.” These intense conditions, however, contributed to the album’s raw and visceral sound.

Below is a table listing other albums produced by Steve Thompson and Toby Wright:

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, Follow The Leader was met with both commercial success and critical acclaim. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 268,000 copies in its first week alone. This marked a significant achievement for Korn, as it solidified their position as leaders in the nu-metal genre.

The album’s success extended beyond the United States, charting in multiple countries and earning various certifications. Its singles, particularly “Freak on a Leash” and “Got the Life,” received heavy rotation on radio and MTV, further boosting the album’s profile.

Below is a table highlighting the sales and certifications of Follow The Leader and other albums:

In terms of accolades, Follow The Leader was certified five-times Platinum by the RIAA and earned a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video for “Freak on a Leash.” The album’s innovative approach and commercial triumph paved the way for other nu-metal acts to gain mainstream attention.

Other albums released in 1998 include:

• Adore by The Smashing Pumpkins
• System of a Down by System of a Down
• Mechanical Animals by Marilyn Manson

Follow The Leader received numerous awards and recognitions, including multiple MTV Video Music Awards for “Freak on a Leash” and nominations for the American Music Awards. Its success was a testament to Korn’s influence and the album’s lasting impact on the music industry.

Singles and Track Analysis

The release of singles from Follow The Leader played a crucial role in its commercial success. The album spawned several hits, each contributing to Korn’s growing reputation as nu-metal pioneers. Notably, “Freak on a Leash” and “Got the Life” were standout tracks that captivated audiences with their intense energy and innovative sound.

Below is a table detailing the album’s tracks and their respective writing credits:

Note: Songs marked with * were singles. “Freak On a Leash” and “Got the Life” charted successfully, with “Freak On a Leash” reaching number six on the Alternative Songs chart.

Influences and Legacy

The influences that shaped Follow The Leader were as diverse as the sounds that Korn crafted on the album. Drawing inspiration from a wide array of genres, including hip-hop, metal, and alternative rock, the band forged a unique path that resonated with listeners across the globe.

Below is a table highlighting the influences on Follow The Leader and the artists who were influenced by it:

Released in 1998, the album arrived at a time of significant cultural and global events. That year saw the establishment of the European Central Bank, the launch of Google, and the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland. In the realm of cinema, blockbusters like Armageddon and Saving Private Ryan captivated audiences worldwide, reflecting a year of notable achievements in various fields.

Five Things about Follow The Leader

Beyond its commercial success and critical acclaim, Follow The Leader is notable for several fascinating facts that underscore its unique place in music history.

Media and Television Usage

The reach of Follow The Leader extended beyond music, with several tracks finding their way into various media outlets, showcasing the album’s broad appeal.

Below is a table detailing the media usage of songs from the album:

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

Follow The Leader garnered a wide range of critical reviews, reflecting its complex nature and the impact it had on listeners and critics alike. The album’s innovative approach and powerful themes resonated with many, though it also faced some criticism for its raw intensity.

Below is a table summarizing critical reviews of the album:

After Follow The Leader

Following the release of Follow The Leader, Korn continued to build on their success with subsequent albums and tours. The band’s popularity soared, and they became synonymous with the nu-metal genre. However, this period also brought challenges, including lineup changes and evolving musical landscapes.

Korn’s follow-up album, Issues, released in 1999, further cemented their status as a leading force in the industry. Despite facing internal struggles and the departure of guitarist Brian “Head” Welch in 2005, the band persevered, exploring new musical directions and maintaining a loyal fanbase.

As of October 2023, Korn remains active, continuing to tour and release new music. Their enduring influence and ability to adapt have ensured their place as a cornerstone of modern rock and metal.

Remasters and Reissues

The legacy of Follow The Leader has been preserved through various remasters and reissues, offering fans the opportunity to experience the album in new formats and with enhanced audio quality.

Below is a table listing the remasters and reissues of the album:

The 20th Anniversary Edition of Follow The Leader features remastered tracks and previously unreleased material, providing fans with a fresh perspective on the iconic album. This edition is available across various formats, including CD, vinyl, and digital platforms.

Conclusion

Follow The Leader remains a landmark album in the history of nu-metal and modern rock. Its innovative sound, raw emotion, and cultural impact continue to resonate with listeners today. Korn’s ability to capture the zeitgeist of the late ’90s while paving the way for future artists underscores the album’s lasting significance.

For further reading, explore our own articles and podcasts related to Korn and similar genres:

• The Making of Follow The Leader by Korn (Blog)
• The Making of Korn by Korn (Blog)
• The Making of Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park (Blog)

Additional resources:

• Wikipedia page for “Follow The Leader”
• Official Korn website
• Record label’s website

Let us know in the comments what your thoughts are on Follow The Leader by Korn. Did we miss anything? Share your experiences and join the conversation!