Limp Bizkit, from Jacksonville, Florida, is an American nu metal band known for its distinctive musical style. The band consists of vocalist Fred Durst, drummer John Otto, guitarist Wes Borland, turntablist DJ Lethal, and bassist Sam Rivers. Their music is characterized by Durst's aggressive vocals and Borland's experimental guitar work. Borland's striking visual presence, featuring face paint, masks, and costumes, is a key element of their live performances. Limp Bizkit has achieved significant commercial success, selling over 40 million albums globally and garnering three Grammy nominations, alongside other accolades.
1971: Release of "Behind Blue Eyes"
The Who released the single "Behind Blue Eyes" in 1971, which Limp Bizkit later covered.
1992: Faith No More's Cover of "Easy"
In 1992, Faith No More released their rendition of Lionel Richie's "Easy." This cover foreshadowed Limp Bizkit's own foray into reinterpreting pop classics with their version of George Michael's "Faith" in 1997.
1994: Limp Bizkit Formation
Limp Bizkit was formed in Jacksonville, Florida in 1994.
1996: Korn Helps Limp Bizkit Secure a Record Deal
In 1996, bassist Reginald Arvizu of Korn played a crucial role in helping Limp Bizkit land a record deal, marking the beginning of a long-standing friendship between the two bands.
July 1, 1997: Release of "Three Dollar Bill, Y'all"
Limp Bizkit's debut album, "Three Dollar Bill, Y'all," was released on July 1, 1997, to mixed reviews.
1997: Limp Bizkit's Cover of "Faith"
Limp Bizkit released their cover of George Michael's "Faith" in 1997. This rendition drew comparisons to Faith No More's earlier cover of Lionel Richie's "Easy" in 1992, highlighting a shared tendency towards reinterpreting pop classics within both bands' musical approaches.
1997: Limp Bizkit Releases Debut Album
Limp Bizkit released their debut album in 1997, which later went on to influence Slipknot's own debut album, despite the growing tension between the bands.
1997: Debut Album Release
Limp Bizkit released their debut album, "Three Dollar Bill, Y'all," with Flip Records in 1997.
1997: Touring with Korn and Helmet
Limp Bizkit toured with Korn and Helmet in 1997, facing criticism for their performances.
December 1998: Durst and Molko Clash at Irving Plaza Show
The feud between Limp Bizkit and Placebo originated in December 1998 at a show Durst was hosting at Irving Plaza. Durst claimed that Brian Molko, lead singer of Placebo, insulted him before realizing who he was, leading to a confrontation.
1998: Touring with Soulfly and Cold
Limp Bizkit toured with Soulfly and Cold on Soulfly's first European tour in 1998.
June 11, 1999: Durst Instigates Chants Against Placebo at K-Rock Event
On June 11, 1999, during K-Rock's Dysfunctional Family Picnic in Holmdel, New Jersey, Fred Durst reignited the feud with Placebo by encouraging the audience to chant "Fuck Placebo" before Staind's performance.
December 1999: Durst Makes Derogatory Remarks Towards Slipknot Fans
In December 1999, amidst growing tension between Limp Bizkit and Slipknot, Fred Durst publicly referred to Slipknot fans as "fat, ugly kids", further escalating the feud.
1999: Manson Publicly Criticizes Limp Bizkit and Their Fans
In 1999, Marilyn Manson launched a scathing attack on Limp Bizkit and their fans, criticizing their music and fanbase. Manson's comments fueled the animosity between him and Durst.
1999: Mainstream Success with "Significant Other"
Limp Bizkit's second studio album, "Significant Other," was released in 1999, propelling them to mainstream success.
1999: Performance at Woodstock '99
Limp Bizkit's performance at Woodstock '99 in front of a large crowd was marred by violence and sexual assault incidents.
1999: Billboard Music Video Award Win
In 1999, Limp Bizkit's music video for "Nookie" earned them the Maximum Vision Award at the Billboard Music Video Awards.
February 2000: Corey Taylor Responds to Durst's Insults
During a fan interview in February 2000, Corey Taylor, vocalist for Slipknot, responded to Fred Durst's derogatory comments about Slipknot fans, suggesting that insulting their fanbase could be seen as an insult to Limp Bizkit fans as well.
June 2000: Performance at WXRK Dysfunctional Family Picnic
Limp Bizkit performed at the WXRK Dysfunctional Family Picnic in June 2000, arriving late and drawing criticism from Durst towards Creed's singer.
October 2000: Durst Expresses Admiration for Slipknot's Music
In an interview with VH1 in October 2000, Fred Durst surprised many by praising Slipknot's music, expressing a desire to ease tensions between the bands. However, Corey Taylor responded with a backhanded compliment, praising Durst's business acumen while questioning his artistry.
2000: "Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water" Release and Reception
Limp Bizkit's album "Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water" was released in 2000 to mixed reviews. AllMusic criticized the album's rushed production, while Entertainment Weekly named it the worst album title of the year. Kerrang! magazine readers voted it the worst album of the year.
2000: Tim Commerford's Protest at the MTV VMAs
Rage Against the Machine bassist Tim Commerford famously protested Limp Bizkit's win for Best Rock Video at the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards by climbing the set. This incident publicly displayed the animosity between the two bands and underscored the broader debate about authenticity and commercialism within the rock and metal genres.
2000: Manson and Reznor Target Durst in Music Video
In 2000, Marilyn Manson and Trent Reznor, frontman of Nine Inch Nails, took aim at Fred Durst and Limp Bizkit in the music video for Nine Inch Nails' song "Starfuckers, Inc.", further escalating the feud. Durst responded by suggesting that Manson and Reznor were jealous of Limp Bizkit's success.
2000: Blockbuster Award Wins
Limp Bizkit won the Favorite Group (Rock) award at the Blockbuster Awards in both 2000 and 2001, signifying their popularity among fans during this period.
2000: Release of "Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water"
Limp Bizkit released their third studio album, "Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water," in 2000.
2000: Performance with Christina Aguilera at the MTV VMAs
Fred Durst performed with Christina Aguilera at the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards, sparking controversy and criticism.
2000: Announcement of "Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water"
Fred Durst announced the title of Limp Bizkit's third album, "Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water," in 2000, initially met with disbelief from the press.
2000: Limp Bizkit's Musical Style and "Frat-Metal" Label
Fred Durst's ambition for Limp Bizkit was to become a "megaband" that transcended musical boundaries. Critics primarily categorize their music as nu metal, rap metal, and rap rock. They've also been associated with alternative metal, alternative rock, post-grunge, and hard rock. In 2000, the New York Daily News coined the term "frat-metal" to describe their sound.
May 26, 2001: MTV's Total Request Live "Hall of Fame" Induction
Limp Bizkit achieved a significant milestone on May 26, 2001, by becoming the first band inducted into MTV's Total Request Live "Hall of Fame."
October 2001: Wes Borland Leaves Limp Bizkit
In October 2001, guitarist Wes Borland and Limp Bizkit announced their amicable split. Both parties expressed a desire to pursue their own musical paths. Durst indicated the band's intention to find a new guitarist.
2001: Tragedy at Big Day Out Festival
During Limp Bizkit's 2001 performance at the Big Day Out festival in Sydney, a crowd surge in the mosh pit resulted in the death of teenager Jessica Michalik. While Durst testified that he had warned organizers about the inadequate security, the coroner deemed the crowd density dangerous and criticized Durst's lack of responsibility. This event deeply affected Durst.
2001: Wes Borland's Departure
Guitarist Wes Borland left Limp Bizkit in 2001.
2001: "New Old Songs" Release
In 2001, a remix album titled "New Old Songs" was released, featuring hip-hop artists like P. Diddy, Timbaland, Bubba Sparxxx, and Everlast putting their own spin on popular Limp Bizkit songs.
2001: Tragedy at Big Day Out
In 2001, during Limp Bizkit's performance at the Big Day Out festival, a tragic incident occurred resulting in the death of audience member Jessica Michalik.
2001: Controversies at Music Festivals
Limp Bizkit's performances at Woodstock '99 and the 2001 Big Day Out festival were overshadowed by a series of controversies.
2001: Placebo Expresses Discomfort at Big Day Out
The tension between Limp Bizkit and Placebo continued at the Big Day Out festival in 2001. Placebo, billed lower than Limp Bizkit, reportedly felt apprehensive about the audience's anticipation for Limp Bizkit's set.
May 2002: Guitarist Search and Publicity Stunt
In May 2002, Durst's nationwide guitarist audition, "Put Your Guitar Where Your Mouth Is," sparked controversy as it was revealed to be a publicity stunt for Guitar Center, angering many participants. Despite recording with Snot guitarist Mike Smith, the sessions were scrapped. Durst later shared Borland's email online, urging fans to convince him to return.
2002: American Music Award Win
Limp Bizkit won a significant award in 2002, taking home the American Music Award for Favorite Alternative Artist.
June 2003: Durst and Manson Appear Together on Rolling Stone Cover
Despite their past animosity, Fred Durst and Marilyn Manson appeared together on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine in June 2003, alongside other prominent figures in rock music. This suggested a potential thawing of their relationship.
September 23, 2003: "Results May Vary" Release
"Results May Vary," released on September 23, 2003, received negative reviews, with critics like AllMusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine panning its lack of musicality. Despite the criticism, the album achieved commercial success, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard 200.
2003: WrestleMania Performance and Summer Sanitarium Tour
Limp Bizkit, with Smith and Korn's Brian Welch on guitars, performed at WWE WrestleMania XIX. During the Summer Sanitarium Tour with Metallica, Durst faced intense hostility from the Chicago crowd, enduring thrown objects and chants of "Fuck Fred Durst." He responded aggressively before leaving the stage.
2003: Inspiration for "Generation Kill"
The events that inspired Evan Wright's book and subsequent HBO miniseries, "Generation Kill," occurred in 2003 during the invasion of Iraq. Wright's experiences during this time, including a soldier recounting his band opening for Limp Bizkit, formed the basis for his work.
2003: Release of "Results May Vary"
Limp Bizkit released the album "Results May Vary" in 2003, featuring guitarist Mike Smith.
2003: Previous WWE Collaboration
Before their 2012 collaboration, Limp Bizkit had last worked with WWE in 2003. The details of this collaboration are not specified in this context.
August 2004: Mike Smith Departs Limp Bizkit
Guitarist Mike Smith left Limp Bizkit in August 2004 after a falling-out with Durst, who later stated that Smith wasn't a good fit for the band.
August 2004: Borland Rejoins and "The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)" Recording
Wes Borland returned to Limp Bizkit in August 2004, and the band started recording the EP "The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)."
2004: Limp Bizkit and Placebo Feud Cools Down
By 2004, the feud between Limp Bizkit and Placebo had reportedly subsided, marking an end to their public clashes.
2004: "Generation Kill" Book Release
Journalist Evan Wright published "Generation Kill" in 2004, initially a three-part series in Rolling Stone magazine. The book details Wright's experiences during the 2003 invasion of Iraq with a U.S. Recon Marines platoon. In the book, a character mentions opening for Limp Bizkit in Kansas City with his high school band.
2005: Gold Cobra Release and Tour
In 2005, Limp Bizkit released their EP, "The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)". The same year, they released their fifth studio album, "Gold Cobra", which received mixed to positive reviews. The band embarked on the Gold Cobra Tour in support of the album and released a music video for the title track. Despite selling nearly 80,000 copies in the US and peaking at No. 16 on the Billboard 200, the band parted ways with Interscope Records after the album's release.
2005: Recording Stampede of the Disco Elephants
Limp Bizkit began recording their seventh studio album, "Stampede of the Disco Elephants," with producer Ross Robinson, who had previously worked on their debut album, "Three Dollar Bill, Y'all," and their 2005 EP, "The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)".
2005: Borland's Return and "The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)"
Wes Borland rejoined Limp Bizkit, and they recorded "The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)" with drummer Sammy Siegler in 2005.
March 2006: Hiatus and Uncertain Future
Despite a strong initial performance, "The Unquestionable Truth (Part 1)" sales declined. Following the release of "Greatest Hitz," Limp Bizkit went on hiatus, and Borland expressed uncertainty about the EP's sequel or his future involvement with the band.
August 15, 2008: Manson Mocks Limp Bizkit While Introducing Borland Onstage
On August 15, 2008, during a concert in Seoul, South Korea, Marilyn Manson introduced Wes Borland, former guitarist for Limp Bizkit, as a member of his touring band. However, Manson took the opportunity to publicly mock Limp Bizkit, highlighting the ongoing tension between him and Durst.
2008: "Generation Kill" HBO Miniseries
Evan Wright's book "Generation Kill" was adapted into an HBO miniseries in 2008. The series, like the book, follows Wright's time with a U.S. Recon Marines platoon during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and includes the scene where a Marine recounts his band opening for Limp Bizkit.
2009: Durst and Taylor Encounter at Download Festival
During the 2009 Download Festival, Fred Durst and Corey Taylor had a friendly encounter, with Durst revealing that his children were Slipknot fans and requesting autographs from Taylor. This event signaled a thawing in their previously contentious relationship.
2009: Kerrang! Awards Hall of Fame Induction
In 2009, Limp Bizkit received further recognition for their contributions to rock music with their induction into the Kerrang! Awards Hall of Fame.
2009: Reunion and Touring
Limp Bizkit reunited with Wes Borland on guitar and began touring in 2009.
2009: Reunion, "Gold Cobra" Recording, and Collaborations
Limp Bizkit, reunited with Borland, embarked on the Unicorns N' Rainbows Tour and began recording their new album, "Gold Cobra." They worked on various tracks, including collaborations with Gene Simmons, Raekwon, and Paul Wall, some of which didn't make it to the final album.
2010: Durst Gives Shoutout to Taylor on "Gold Cobra"
In 2010, while recording their album "Gold Cobra", Fred Durst included a line in the song "90.2.10" that gave a shoutout to Corey Taylor, further demonstrating the improving relationship between the two musicians.
May 17, 2011: "Shotgun" Release
"Shotgun," released as a single on May 17, 2011, garnered positive reviews for its heavier sound and Borland's inclusion of a guitar solo, a rarity for Limp Bizkit.
2011: Release of "Gold Cobra"
Limp Bizkit released the album "Gold Cobra" in 2011.
February 2012: Limp Bizkit's Return to Australia and Signing with Cash Money Records
In February 2012, Limp Bizkit made their comeback to Australia after 11 years to perform at the Soundwave festival. Frontman Fred Durst dedicated the shows to Jessica Michalik, who tragically passed away during their performance at Big Day Out in 2001. The band then signed with Cash Money Records. Following this, DJ Lethal left the band due to a dispute regarding his alleged drug and alcohol use.
September 3, 2012: Limp Bizkit Collaborates with WWE
On September 3, 2012, Fred Durst was featured on Kevin Rudolf's song "Champions," which was used as the theme song for WWE's Night of Champions. This marked Limp Bizkit's first collaboration with WWE since 2003.
March 24, 2013: Release of "Ready to Go" and Other Tracks
On March 24, 2013, Limp Bizkit released "Ready to Go" featuring Lil Wayne, the first single from their upcoming album. Later in the year, they released a cover of Ministry's "Thieves" through their social media platforms. They also released the song "Lightz" with an accompanying music video. Another track, "Endless Slaughter," was intended for release on cassette and during concerts but was made available for download on their website.
October 2014: Limp Bizkit Goes Independent Again
In October 2014, Fred Durst announced that Limp Bizkit had amicably parted ways with Cash Money Records and became an independent entity once again. Despite the split, Durst expressed fondness for their collaboration with Lil Wayne on the track "Ready to Go."
2014: Limp Bizkit Joins Slipknot's Knotfest Tour
In 2014, Limp Bizkit was invited to perform on the Japanese leg of Slipknot's Knotfest tour, alongside Korn. This joint tour marked a significant moment of reconciliation between the bands.
2015: Tim Commerford's Interview with Rolling Stone
In a 2015 interview with Rolling Stone, Tim Commerford, bassist for Rage Against the Machine, reiterated his disdain for Limp Bizkit, going as far as saying, "I apologize for inspiring such shit." This statement illustrated the enduring tension between the two bands and highlighted the critical backlash Limp Bizkit had received from some corners of the rock community.
2015: ShipRocked 2015 and "Money Sucks" Tour
Limp Bizkit headlined the ShipRocked 2015 cruise from February 2nd to 6th, sharing the stage with bands such as Chevelle, Black Label Society, P.O.D., and Sevendust. Later that year, they announced a 20-date Russian tour called "Money Sucks" to commemorate their 20th anniversary. The tour's title alluded to Russia's economic struggles at the time. However, the tour faced criticism due to the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War and Fred Durst's display of a flag stating "Crimea = Russia," referencing Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea.
2016: UK Tour with Korn and Delays of Stampede
Limp Bizkit embarked on a UK tour with Korn in the winter of 2016. Fred Durst enthusiastically promoted the tour, promising fans an unforgettable experience. Concurrently, the release of their album "Stampede of the Disco Elephants" faced continuous delays and a lack of updates. In an interview, guitarist Wes Borland revealed that Fred Durst was not content with the album's progress and remained committed to perfecting it, even if it required more time.
March 17, 2018: DJ Lethal Rejoins Limp Bizkit
DJ Lethal returned to perform with Limp Bizkit on March 17, 2018, at the Storm the Gates festival in Auckland, New Zealand. This reunion marked his return to the band after his departure in 2012.
2018: DJ Lethal's Return
DJ Lethal rejoined Limp Bizkit in 2018 after leaving the band earlier.
July 8, 2019: Debut of "Wasteoid" in Paris
Limp Bizkit performed a new song titled "Wasteoid" live in Paris on July 8, 2019. The song is from their forthcoming album, although the album's title and release date were not specified at that time.
June 2021: Wes Borland Provides Album Update
In June 2021, Wes Borland gave an update on the status of their upcoming album, indicating that there were ongoing challenges in the process.
August 2021: Summer Tour Cancellation
In August 2021, Limp Bizkit made the decision to cancel their summer tour due to concerns about the escalating COVID-19 cases in the United States. Prioritizing the health and safety of their band, crew, and fans, they canceled the tour out of an abundance of caution.
August 2021: Limp Bizkit Pays Tribute to Joey Jordison
In August 2021, during a concert in Slipknot's hometown of Des Moines, Iowa, Limp Bizkit paid tribute to the recently deceased Slipknot drummer, Joey Jordison. Fred Durst led the crowd in a chant of Jordison's name, demonstrating respect and solidarity.
August 25, 2021: New Music Leaks and Album Announcement
On August 25, 2021, Limp Bizkit revealed that they would be releasing new music through a series of leaks, with their new album following shortly thereafter. This unconventional release strategy sparked anticipation among fans.
September 30, 2021: Release of "Dad Vibes"
On September 30, 2021, Limp Bizkit released their latest single, "Dad Vibes," adding to the anticipation for their upcoming album.
October 28, 2021: Still Sucks Release Date Confirmation
On October 28, 2021, Fred Durst used Instagram to confirm that their sixth studio album, titled "Still Sucks," would be released on October 31, 2021. The album's title and release date confirmation excited fans who had been eagerly waiting for new material.
October 31, 2021: Release of "Still Sucks"
Limp Bizkit released their sixth studio album, "Still Sucks," on October 31, 2021.
2021: Shift in Public Opinion and Critical Acclaim
In 2021, Limp Bizkit experienced a resurgence in popularity and critical acclaim. This followed their performance at Lollapalooza, the release of their song "Dad Vibes," and their comeback album "Still Sucks." The album received positive reviews, marking a turnaround in the band's reception since the early 2000s.
2021: Borland Condemns Manson Following Abuse Allegations
Following numerous sexual abuse allegations against Manson in 2021, Wes Borland publicly denounced Manson, calling him a "bad dude." This condemnation was supported by Trent Reznor, indicating a shift in alliances.
2022: Mention in "Sonic the Hedgehog 2"
In 2022, Limp Bizkit received an unusual mention in the film "Sonic the Hedgehog 2." Jim Carrey's character, Dr. Robotnik, compares a backstage pass to a Limp Bizkit concert as being useless.
2023: Plans for Another Album
In early 2023, Wes Borland shared that Limp Bizkit was in the planning stages for a new album, with the goal of releasing it in 2024.
May 19, 2024: Sid Wilson Joins Limp Bizkit Onstage at Sonic Temple Festival
On May 19, 2024, Slipknot's turntablist, Sid Wilson, made a surprise appearance during Limp Bizkit's set at the Sonic Temple festival in Columbus, Ohio, highlighting the camaraderie between the bands.
2024: Expected Album Release
Limp Bizkit is anticipated to release their upcoming album in 2024. This will be their first album since "Still Sucks" in 2021.