Korn Guitarist Munky Tests Positive for COVID-19, Tour Will Go Forward

2021-09-10

Photograph of nu-metal band Korn standing against a blue background.

Korn – Story by Cat Badra, courtesy photo via Korn

James “Munky” Shaffer of Korn has tested positive for COVID-19 and will take time off of the group’s current tour

A second member of Korn has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The nu-metal band has released a statement telling fans that guitarist James “Munky” Shaffer will take time off some of the group’s upcoming show following being diagnosed with COVID-19.

“Unfortunately, Munky has tested positive for COVID,” Korn said in a statement. “He is doing OK, but he will not be playing some of our upcoming shows. The tour is going on as scheduled despite these circumstances, and we are anticipating a speedy recovery. We’ll see you tonight, Utah.”

Last month, Korn frontman Jonathan Davis revealed that he had tested positive for COVID, resulting in the band having to reschedule a handful of tour dates and cancel two shows.

Although Davis got over COVID and was able to return to the tour, he has been dealing with some after effects. After getting back on the road, the vocalist played some of the band’s concerts sitting down on a special throne. In an Instagram video, Korn guitarist Brian “Head” Welch stated that, “Jonathan Davis is still struggling with the COVID after-effects.

Head added, “He’s physically weak and having a mental battle. And any type of love, light and energy you can throw at him — prayers, all of it. We have shows coming up, so all of you guys, check the dates. Whatever show you’re going to, throw him some love and energy, man. He needs you more than ever.”

Korn didn’t announce who will be taking the place of Munky on the upcoming dates or how long he would be off the tour. Korn are currently scheduled to be on the road with Staind through Oct. 3, with two additional shows in Los Angeles Oct. 22 and 23.

Munky and Davis join a long list of musicians on the road who have recently tested positive for COVID-19, including Corey Taylor of Slipknot, Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden, Sebastian Bach of Skid Row and multiple members of Tesla and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

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Cat Badra

Meet the expert - Cat Badra is a music writer for Audio Ink Radio and a range of other music, sports and lifestyle publications. She's a graduate of Michigan State University with a master's degree in theater and speech. Contact her at cat@audioinkradio.com.