Deftones, formed in 1988 in Sacramento, California, is an American alternative metal band known for their experimental sound. The founding members are Chino Moreno (vocalist), Stephen Carpenter (guitarist), and Abe Cunningham (drummer). Bassist Chi Cheng and keyboardist/turntablist Frank Delgado joined later in 1990 and 1999 respectively. Their unique style has earned them critical acclaim, with some even calling them "the Radiohead of metal".
1988: Early Jam Sessions
Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, and Abe Cunningham, who were childhood friends, began playing music together in 1988, laying the foundation for Deftones.
1988: Formation of Deftones
Deftones, an American alternative metal band, was formed in Sacramento, California in 1988 by Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, and Abe Cunningham.
1990: Chi Cheng Joins Deftones
Bassist Chi Cheng joined the Deftones lineup in 1990, solidifying the band's rhythm section.
1991: John Taylor Briefly Joins Deftones
John Taylor joined Deftones as a drummer in 1991 after Abe Cunningham left to join Phallucy.
1993: Abe Cunningham Returns, Deftones Signs with Maverick Records
Abe Cunningham returned to Deftones in 1993, and the band was subsequently signed by Maverick Records, marking a turning point in their career.
1993: Deftones Lineup Solidifies
Deftones' lineup solidified in 1993, marking a pivotal moment in their journey.
October 3, 1995: Release of "Adrenaline"
Deftones released their debut album, "Adrenaline," on October 3, 1995.
1995: Start of Vinyl Collection Era
Deftones began releasing their music on vinyl in 1995, marking the start of their collectible vinyl discography.
1995: Release of "Adrenaline"
Deftones released their debut album, "Adrenaline," on October 3, 1995, marking their entrance into the music scene.
1996: "Teething" Features in "The Crow: City of Angels"
Deftones' song "Teething," which didn't make it onto "Adrenaline," was featured on the soundtrack of the 1996 film "The Crow: City of Angels." The band also made a cameo appearance in the film, performing the song live.
October 28, 1997: Release of "Around the Fur"
Deftones released their second album, "Around the Fur," on October 28, 1997. The album was dedicated to Dana Wells, the late stepson of Max Cavalera.
1997: Release of "Around the Fur"
Deftones released their second album, "Around the Fur," in 1997, which achieved significant chart success.
1998: Deftones Discuss "Around the Fur"
In 1998, Deftones discussed the making of their album "Around the Fur," highlighting the album's organic development and their evolving sound.
1998: Sergio Vega Temporarily Replaces Chi Cheng
Sergio Vega previously filled in as bassist for Deftones in 1998, highlighting his connection to the band.
March 30, 1999: My Own Summer Featured in The Matrix
Deftones' song 'My Own Summer (Shove It)' was included on 'The Matrix: Music from the Motion Picture' soundtrack released on March 30, 1999, increasing their exposure to a wider audience.
June 22, 1999: Release of Live EP
On June 22, 1999, Deftones released a live EP, adding to their growing discography.
June 24, 1999: Around the Fur Goes Gold
Deftones' album 'Around the Fur' achieved gold certification by the RIAA on June 24, 1999, marking a significant milestone in their career.
July 7, 1999: "Adrenaline" Certified Gold
On July 7, 1999, Deftones' debut album, "Adrenaline," was certified gold by the RIAA, marking a significant milestone in their career.
1999: Frank Delgado Completes the Lineup
Keyboardist and turntablist Frank Delgado joined Deftones in 1999, adding a new dimension to their sound.
June 20, 2000: Release of White Pony
Deftones' third studio album, 'White Pony,' was released on June 20, 2000, marking a new chapter in their musical journey.
October 3, 2000: Re-release of White Pony
On October 3, 2000, a re-released version of 'White Pony' was released, featuring new artwork and the single 'Back to School (Mini Maggit).'
2000: Deftones Members Pursue Side Projects, Cheng Releases Spoken Word Album
Members of Deftones engaged in various side projects. Notably, Chino Moreno fronted Team Sleep, Crosses, Palms, and Saudade. Stephen Carpenter worked with Sol Invicto and Kush. DJ Crook participated in Decibel Devils. In 2000, Cheng released "The Bamboo Parachute," a spoken word poetry album.
2000: Release of "White Pony"
Deftones released their groundbreaking album, "White Pony," in 2000, marking a significant shift in their sound and achieving both commercial and critical acclaim.
2001: Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance
Deftones received a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance for their song 'Elite' in 2001, a testament to their artistic merit and recognition within the music industry.
2001: Moreno's Vocal Cord Injury and Album Preparation
In 2001, Chino Moreno underwent vocal training after damaging his vocal cords, while Deftones started working on their fourth album, demonstrating their commitment to their craft despite challenges.
July 17, 2002: White Pony Certified Platinum
'White Pony' by Deftones reached platinum status on July 17, 2002, solidifying its commercial success and impact on the music scene.
January 2003: Performance at Big Day Out Festival
In January 2003, Deftones performed at the Big Day Out festival in Australia and New Zealand, expanding their global reach and engaging with fans abroad.
May 20, 2003: Release of Deftones
Deftones released their fourth studio album, self-titled 'Deftones,' on May 20, 2003, marking their first self-titled album release.
2003: Release of "Deftones"
Deftones released their self-titled fourth album in 2003, continuing their exploration of experimental sounds.
October 4, 2005: Release of B-Sides & Rarities
On October 4, 2005, Deftones released a compilation album titled 'B-Sides & Rarities,' offering fans a collection of lesser-known tracks and insights into their career.
August 2006: Hole in the Earth Featured in Saints Row
'Hole in the Earth' by Deftones was featured in the video game 'Saints Row,' released in August 2006, introducing their music to a new audience.
September 12, 2006: Release of Hole in the Earth
On September 12, 2006, Deftones released 'Hole in the Earth,' the first single from their upcoming album 'Saturday Night Wrist,' generating anticipation among fans.
October 31, 2006: Release of Saturday Night Wrist
Deftones released their fifth studio album, 'Saturday Night Wrist,' on October 31, 2006, exploring new musical territories and collaborating with other artists.
2006: World Tour for Saturday Night Wrist
Deftones embarked on a world tour throughout 2006 to promote their album 'Saturday Night Wrist,' connecting with fans globally.
2006: Release of "Saturday Night Wrist"
Deftones released their fifth studio album, "Saturday Night Wrist," in 2006, a record that reflected the creative tensions and personal challenges within the band.
March 9, 2007: Release of Mein
'Mein,' the second single from 'Saturday Night Wrist,' was released on March 9, 2007, featuring Armenian-American singer Serj Tankian.
2007: Continued Touring for Saturday Night Wrist
Deftones continued their world tour in 2007, showcasing 'Saturday Night Wrist' and expanding their international presence.
2007: Abe Cunningham Debunks Settlement Myth
In 2007, Abe Cunningham refuted a long-circulated myth that the driver who hit Stephen Carpenter while skateboarding had provided a cash settlement that allowed Deftones to purchase equipment.
2007: Songwriting for Eros
In 2007, Deftones began writing material for their planned sixth studio album, 'Eros.'
April 14, 2008: Recording Begins for Eros
Deftones began recording their sixth studio album, 'Eros,' on April 14, 2008, with Terry Date as producer.
September 23, 2008: "Adrenaline" Certified Platinum
On September 23, 2008, "Adrenaline" achieved platinum certification by the RIAA, solidifying its status as a successful and influential album.
November 4, 2008: Chi Cheng's Car Accident
Bassist Chi Cheng was seriously injured in a car accident on November 4, 2008, marking a turning point for the band and leaving Cheng in a minimally conscious state.
December 9, 2008: Cheng Moved to Specialized Care
On December 9, 2008, Chi Cheng was moved to a hospital specializing in brain injuries, reflecting the seriousness of his condition and the ongoing efforts for his recovery.
2008: Chi Cheng's Accident
In a tragic turn of events, bassist Chi Cheng was involved in a serious car accident in 2008, leaving him in a minimally conscious state.
2008: Deftones Works with Terry Date on Unreleased Album "Eros"
In 2008, Deftones worked with producer Terry Date on their album "Eros," which remains unreleased.
2008: Eros Shelved After Cheng's Accident
Following Chi Cheng's accident in 2008, Deftones made the difficult decision to shelve their album "Eros." This choice reflected the profound impact of Cheng's condition on the band and their creative process.
January 2009: Sergio Vega Steps In, Band Releases Statement on Cheng
In January 2009, Deftones released a statement on Chi Cheng's condition, announcing Sergio Vega as temporary bassist.
March 10, 2009: One Love for Chi Website Launches
On March 10, 2009, Gina Blackmore, a devoted Deftones fan, launched the "One Love for Chi" website. This platform provided updates on Chi Cheng's health, becoming a central hub for fans seeking information and a way to support his recovery. The site also hosted auctions for donated items, with proceeds going directly to Cheng's family to cover his medical bills.
June 23, 2009: Deftones Delays "Eros" Indefinitely
On June 23, 2009, Deftones made the difficult decision to delay their album "Eros" indefinitely. They felt the record didn't reflect who they were at that time, especially with Chi Cheng's condition weighing heavily on their minds. Despite this, they clarified that the delay wasn't directly related to Chi's accident, emphasizing their commitment to delivering a strong artistic statement.
2009: Music Community Rallies for Chi Cheng
In 2009, the music community showed immense support for Chi Cheng following his accident. Members of Korn, Sevendust, Slipknot, and other bands recorded and released "A Song for Chi" to raise funds for his medical expenses. Deftones also organized two benefit concerts in Los Angeles to further contribute to his recovery.
February 23, 2010: "Rocket Skates" Released as Free Download
On February 23, 2010, Deftones gave fans a taste of their upcoming album, "Diamond Eyes," by offering the first single, "Rocket Skates," as a free download on their website.
April 27, 2010: Initial Release Date Set for "Diamond Eyes"
Deftones initially planned to release their sixth album, "Diamond Eyes," on April 27, 2010.
2010: Deftones Embarks on "Blackdiamondskye" Tour
In 2010, Deftones joined forces with Mastodon and Alice in Chains for the "Blackdiamondskye" tour across the United States and Canada. The tour's name cleverly combined the titles of each band's latest album, and notably, artist Jermaine Rogers, known for his work with the band since the late 1990s, designed a limited series of silk-screened art prints for each show.
2010: Release of "Diamond Eyes"
Deftones released "Diamond Eyes" in 2010, marking their first album after Chi Cheng's accident and featuring Sergio Vega on bass.
April 16, 2011: Deftones Release "Covers" LP
Deftones marked Record Store Day on April 16, 2011, by releasing "Covers," a special LP featuring their renditions of songs by artists they admired, such as The Cars' "Drive," The Cure's "If Only Tonight We Could Sleep," and Sade's "No Ordinary Love."
June 7, 2011: Around the Fur Certified Platinum
On June 7, 2011, 'Around the Fur' reached platinum status, signifying continued success and a dedicated fanbase.
March 29, 2012: Carpenter Confirms Work on New Album
In an interview on March 29, 2012, for ESP Guitars' YouTube channel, Stephen Carpenter confirmed that Deftones were working on their seventh studio album with Nick Raskulinecz as producer.
August 30, 2012: "Koi No Yokan" Announced
On August 30, 2012, Deftones announced "Koi No Yokan," their seventh studio album, building anticipation among fans.
November 12, 2012: "Koi No Yokan" Released to Critical Acclaim
Deftones released "Koi No Yokan" on November 12, 2012, through Reprise Records. The album was met with widespread critical praise, earning an impressive score of 86 out of 100 on Metacritic, signifying "universal acclaim."
2012: Release of "Koi No Yokan"
Deftones released "Koi No Yokan" in 2012, continuing their exploration of atmospheric and experimental soundscapes.
April 13, 2013: Chi Cheng Passes Away
On April 13, 2013, tragedy struck the Deftones family as Chi Cheng, their bassist, passed away in a Stockton, California, hospital after suffering cardiac arrest. His death, more than four years after his accident, marked a profound loss for the band and their fans.
May 2013: "Koi No Yokan" Wins Golden Gods Award
In May 2013, "Koi No Yokan" won the prestigious Golden Gods Award for Album of the Year from Revolver Magazine, solidifying its place as a standout release.
2013: Death of Chi Cheng
After battling for his life for five years, Chi Cheng passed away in 2013 due to cardiac arrest following his 2008 accident.
March 2014: Deftones Begin Writing New Material
In March 2014, while Chino Moreno was on tour with his side project, Crosses, the remaining Deftones members began working on new music, signaling the start of their journey towards their next album.
April 13, 2014: Deftones Release "Smile" from "Eros"
On the first anniversary of Chi Cheng's passing, April 13, 2014, Deftones shared "Smile," a song from their shelved album "Eros," on YouTube. This marked the first time fans could hear officially released material from the album, though it was later removed due to copyright issues.
February 2015: Deftones Finish Drum Tracks for New Album
In February 2015, Deftones completed recording the drum tracks for their forthcoming album, marking significant progress in its creation.
May 15, 2015: Moreno Discusses New Album's Mood
In a May 15, 2015, interview with Kerrang!, Chino Moreno offered insights into the sound of Deftones' upcoming album, describing it as having a range of moods and being neither entirely happy nor completely angry.
September 2015: Original Release Date of "Gore"
Deftones had initially planned to release "Gore" in September 2015, but the album faced multiple delays before its eventual release.
2015: Deftones Aim for New Album Release
Deftones announced their intention to record a new album in late 2014 or early 2015, keeping fans hopeful for new music.
February 4, 2016: "Prayers / Triangles" Released as First Single from "Gore"
Anticipation for Deftones' upcoming album "Gore" grew on February 4, 2016, when the band released "Prayers / Triangles," the first single from the record.
April 8, 2016: "Gore" Officially Released
On April 8, 2016, Deftones released "Gore," their eighth studio album, marking a new chapter in their musical journey.
2016: Release of "Gore"
Deftones released "Gore" in 2016, further showcasing their ability to blend heavy riffs with ethereal melodies.
2017: Deftones Begins Writing Ninth Studio Album
In 2017, Deftones announced they were working on their ninth studio album, aiming for a 2019 release. Chino Moreno hinted at a shift in direction from their previous album, "Gore," and a more collaborative songwriting approach.
May 2018: Deftones Hints at Heavier Sound for New Album and Tours South America
In May 2018, Chino Moreno revealed that Deftones' upcoming album would be "considerably heavier" than their previous work, "Gore." That same month, the band embarked on a South American tour with Quicksand and Deadly Apples.
2019: Anticipated Release Year for Deftones' Ninth Studio Album
Deftones' ninth studio album, later revealed to be "Ohms," was initially anticipated for release in 2019.
April 2020: Deftones Announces Mixing of New Album with Terry Date
In April 2020, Deftones revealed they were in the mixing stage of their new album. The band reunited with producer Terry Date for the first time since their unreleased 2008 album, "Eros."
August 19, 2020: Deftones Teases Upcoming Album Release
Deftones teased the release date and title of their ninth studio album, "Ohms," on August 19, 2020.
September 17, 2020: Deftones Releases Second Single, "Genesis," from "Ohms"
On September 17, 2020, Deftones released "Genesis," the second single from their upcoming album, "Ohms."
September 25, 2020: Deftones Releases "Ohms"
Deftones released their highly anticipated ninth studio album, "Ohms," on September 25, 2020.
October 2020: Deftones Announces 20th Anniversary Reissue of "White Pony"
Deftones announced a 20th anniversary reissue of their acclaimed album "White Pony" in October 2020. The reissue included "Black Stallion," a companion album featuring remixes by artists like Mike Shinoda, DJ Shadow, and Robert Smith.
2020: Release of "Ohms"
Deftones returned to their heavier roots with the release of "Ohms" in 2020, an album that garnered critical acclaim for its intensity and sonic depth.
2021: Sergio Vega Departs Deftones
Bassist Sergio Vega left Deftones in early 2021 after disagreements over his official status within the band.
2021: Sergio Vega Departs from Deftones
Sergio Vega, who had been playing bass for Deftones since shortly after Chi Cheng's accident, left the band in early 2021.
March 2022: Sergio Vega Departs Deftones, Fred Sablan and Lance Jackman Join as Touring Members
In March 2022, bassist Sergio Vega's departure from Deftones in early 2021 was announced. Vega stated he left after seeking official band membership. Fred Sablan joined as the touring bassist, and Lance Jackman joined as a touring guitarist.
May 20, 2022: Lance Jackman to Fill in for Stephen Carpenter on Deftones' European Tour
On May 20, 2022, Deftones announced that touring guitarist Lance Jackman would temporarily replace Stephen Carpenter for their 2022 European Tour.
April 2024: Deftones Completes Instrumental Tracking for Tenth Studio Album
In April 2024, Chino Moreno revealed to KROQ that Deftones had finished the instrumental recordings for their tenth studio album, with vocals yet to be recorded.