History of Maynard James Keenan in Timeline
Maynard James Keenan is a multi-talented American artist known for his work as a singer, songwriter, and lyricist. He is primarily recognized for his contributions to the rock music scene as the frontman of bands like Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer. Beyond music, Keenan explores other passions such as philanthropy, record production, and winemaking.
1943: Birth of Judith Marie Dougherty
Maynard James Keenan's mother, Judith Marie Dougherty, was born in 1943.
April 17, 1964: Birth of Maynard James Keenan
On April 17, 1964, Maynard James Keenan, an influential figure in the world of rock music, was born in Ravenna, Ohio.
1968: Divorce of Parents and Relocation to Michigan
Maynard James Keenan's parents divorced in 1968, leading to his relocation to Scottville, Michigan, to live with his father.
1976: Mother's Paralyzing Hemorrhage
Maynard James Keenan experienced a traumatic event in 1976 when his mother suffered a paralyzing subarachnoid hemorrhage. This event would later serve as a significant source of inspiration for his music, particularly in songs like Tool's "Jimmy," "The Patient," and "Wings for Marie," and A Perfect Circle's "Judith."
1981: Inspired by "Stripes," Keenan Joins the Army
Inspired by Bill Murray's performance in the 1981 comedy film "Stripes," Maynard James Keenan made the decision to join the United States Army. His goal was to utilize the G.I. Bill to fund his education in art school.
1982: Graduation from High School
Maynard James Keenan graduated from Mason County Central High School in Scottville, Michigan in 1982.
1983: Start of Studies at West Point Prep School
Maynard James Keenan began his studies at West Point Prep School in 1983.
1984: Completion of West Point Prep School
Maynard James Keenan completed his term at West Point Prep School in 1984.
1988: Move to Los Angeles and Formation of Tool
In 1988, Maynard James Keenan made a pivotal move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in interior design and set construction. It was during this time that he crossed paths with Adam Jones, leading to the formation of the iconic rock band, Tool.
1990: Musical Collaborations and Early Version of "Sober"
During the 1990s, Maynard James Keenan was actively involved in various musical projects. He played bass guitar for TexA.N.S. and sang for Children of the Anachronistic Dynasty, both independent bands. It was during this time that he penned an early version of "Sober," a song that would later become Tool's first successful single.
1990: Formation of Tool
In 1990, Maynard James Keenan and Adam Jones came together to form the band Tool. Jones had been impressed by Keenan's singing on a demo and suggested they start a band. After some initial reluctance, Keenan agreed, marking a pivotal moment in their musical journeys.
November 1991: Tool Signs with Zoo Entertainment and Releases "Opiate" EP
Tool secured a record deal with Zoo Entertainment in November 1991, a significant step in their career. The following year, they released their debut EP, "Opiate." To promote the EP, the band embarked on tour with Fishbone and Rage Against the Machine.
1993: Collaborations with Green Jellö and Friendship with Tom Morello
From 1990 to 1993, Maynard James Keenan collaborated with Green Jellö, both in live performances and recordings. He contributed guitar work and backup vocals, notably lending his voice to the character of one of the pigs in their popular song "Three Little Pigs" from their debut album "Cereal Killer." He also made an appearance in the music video for "Slave Boy" from their subsequent LP, "333." During this period, Keenan developed a friendship with Tom Morello, who has acknowledged Keenan's influence in introducing him to Drop D tuning. Keenan also spent time jamming with Morello and Brad Wilk, as did Zack de la Rocha; Morello and Wilk considered Keenan and de la Rocha as potential vocalists for what would later become Rage Against the Machine, ultimately choosing de la Rocha.
1993: Release of Debut Album "Undertow"
Tool released their debut album, "Undertow," in 1993. The album quickly gained traction, achieving gold certification in just eight months and platinum status within a year.
1994: Release of "Prison Sex" and Controversy with MTV
Tool released the single "Prison Sex" in 1994, accompanied by a music video created and directed by Adam Jones. However, the video's graphic content, which addressed the sensitive subject of child abuse, sparked controversy. MTV deemed it too controversial and pulled it from rotation after only a few airings.
September 1996: Release of "Ænima" and Grammy Award
In September 1996, Tool released their second studio album, "Ænima." The album achieved commercial success, going gold in ten weeks and double platinum within ten months. It also earned the band a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 1998.
1997: Collaboration on "Flyin' Traps" and Legal Battle with Volcano Records
Following the release of "Ænima," Tool became embroiled in a legal dispute with their record label, Volcano Records (formerly Zoo Records), over contract disagreements. This legal battle led to the band taking a hiatus. During this time, Keenan, using the pseudonym "Gaylord C.," worked with Tim Alexander of Primus and Mike Bordin of Faith No More on the track "Choked" for the 1997 drumming compilation "Flyin' Traps."
1997: Keenan Performs at RAINN Benefit Concert
Keenan participated in a 1997 benefit concert for the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) organized by Tori Amos.
1998: Tool Wins Grammy Award for "Ænima"
Tool's album "Ænima" won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 1998, solidifying their presence in the rock music scene.
June 1999: Keenan Featured in Pop Smear Magazine
Keenan appeared on the cover of Pop Smear magazine's May/June 1999 issue as Charles Manson.
1999: First Performances of A Perfect Circle
A Perfect Circle, Keenan's collaborative project with Billy Howerdel, began performing live in 1999. This marked the band's introduction to the public and the start of their rise to prominence.
1999: Formation of A Perfect Circle
During Tool's hiatus in 1999, Keenan began collaborating with Billy Howerdel, Tool's guitar tech, on a new project called A Perfect Circle. This marked the start of Keenan's work outside of Tool and his exploration of different musical styles.
2000: Release of 'Mer de Noms'
A Perfect Circle, featuring Keenan, released their debut album, 'Mer de Noms,' in 2000. The album was a commercial success, achieving platinum certification and establishing the band as a force in the alternative metal scene.
2000: Nine Inch Nails Concert with A Perfect Circle
In 2000, Maynard James Keenan's band, A Perfect Circle, performed alongside Nine Inch Nails. This concert later became the focal point of a sexual assault allegation levied against Keenan in 2018, an accusation he staunchly refuted.
2000: Tool's Stance on Peer-to-Peer File Sharing
In 2000, the members of Tool expressed their strong disapproval of peer-to-peer file-sharing networks, highlighting the detrimental financial impact such platforms had on artists who relied on record sales. In an interview with NY Rock, Maynard James Keenan articulated their concerns, stating, "I think there are a lot of other industries out there that might deserve being destroyed. The ones who get hurt by MP3s are not so much companies or the business, but the artists, people who are trying to write songs."
January 2001: Announcement of New Album "Systema Encéphale" (Later Revealed as a Ruse)
In January 2001, Tool created a buzz among fans by announcing a new album titled "Systema Encéphale," even providing a 12-song tracklist.
May 2001: Release of "Lateralus" and Global Success
Tool released their highly anticipated album, "Lateralus," in May 2001, to critical acclaim. The album marked a departure from their previous work and received praise for its intricate musicianship and Maynard James Keenan's evocative lyrics. It was a global success, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, and further solidified Tool's status as one of the most innovative and influential rock bands of their time.
2002: Collaboration with Thirty Seconds to Mars
In 2002, Maynard James Keenan collaborated with Thirty Seconds to Mars, lending his vocals to the song "Fallen" from the band's self-titled debut album.
2002: Keenan Stars in "Bikini Bandits"
Keenan played the role of Satan in the 2002 film "Bikini Bandits."
August 23, 2003: Axis of Justice Releases Live Recording
A live recording of "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding," featuring Keenan on vocals, was included on the Axis of Justice album "Concert Series Volume 1." This recording was from a performance at Lollapalooza in Seattle on August 23, 2003.
2003: Release of 'Thirteenth Step'
A Perfect Circle released 'Thirteenth Step' in 2003, a concept album exploring themes of recovery. The album, certified platinum, further solidified the band's critical and commercial success.
2003: Death of Judith Marie Keenan
Judith Marie Keenan, Maynard James Keenan's mother, passed away in 2003.
2003: Keenan's Mother Passes Away
Keenan's mother died in 2003 due to complications from an aneurysm.
2003: Debut of Puscifer with "REV 22:20"
Maynard James Keenan debuted his side project, Puscifer, with the song "REV 22:20" on the 'Underworld' film soundtrack in 2003. This marked the beginning of Puscifer as a creative outlet for Keenan.
2003: Death of Maynard James Keenan's Mother
Maynard James Keenan's mother, who had inspired previous songs, passed away in 2003 after 27 years of health struggles. Her passing deeply affected Keenan and inspired the song 'Jambi' and the two-part piece 'Wings for Marie' on the '10,000 Days' album.
July 19, 2004: Live "Where the Streets Have No Name" Recording Released
A live performance of "Where the Streets Have No Name," with Keenan on vocals, was released on Axis of Justice's "Concert Series Volume 1." The recording was from a concert at The Avalon in Hollywood on July 19, 2004.
2004: Keenan Reprises Role in "Bikini Bandits 2: Golden Rod"
Keenan reprised his role as Satan in the 2004 sequel, "Bikini Bandits 2: Golden Rod."
2004: Release of 'eMOTIVe' and 'aMotion'
In 2004, A Perfect Circle released 'eMOTIVe,' a politically charged album primarily composed of covers, and 'aMotion,' a DVD and CD set. Both releases achieved commercial success, with 'eMOTIVe' certified gold and 'aMotion' certified platinum.
February 2005: Keenan Performs with Alice in Chains at Benefit Concert
Keenan made a surprise appearance at a benefit concert in Seattle in February 2005, performing with Alice in Chains as a vocalist in place of the late Layne Staley.
April 1, 2005: Tool Orchestrates April Fools' Day Prank
The official Tool website announced that Keenan had "found Jesus" and might be leaving the band as an April Fools' Day joke.
May 2006: Howerdel Announces Hiatus of A Perfect Circle
In May 2006, Billy Howerdel revealed that A Perfect Circle would be put on hold, marking a pause in the supergroup's activities.
May 2006: 10,000 Days Release and Reception
In May 2006, Tool released their album '10,000 Days,' marking a departure as Keenan explored personal themes. The album achieved commercial success, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, but received less critical acclaim than 'Lateralus.'
2006: Keenan Ranked Among Top Metal Vocalists
In 2006, Hit Parader ranked Keenan No. 21 on their list of "Heavy Metal's All-Time Top 100 Vocalists," acknowledging his influence on other musicians.
2006: Puscifer's Contribution to 'Underworld: Evolution' Soundtrack
Puscifer, Keenan's side project, contributed the song "The Undertaker (Renholder Mix)" to the 'Underworld: Evolution' film soundtrack in 2006, further showcasing Keenan's diverse musical endeavors.
October 2007: Release of Puscifer's Debut Album 'V' Is for Vagina
In October 2007, Puscifer, Keenan's experimental project, released their debut studio album, 'V' Is for Vagina. The album was a departure from Keenan's work with Tool and A Perfect Circle, showcasing a more electronic and experimental sound.
2007: Keenan's Statement on the Future of Tool
In a 2007 interview, Maynard James Keenan expressed his dedication to Tool, stating that they would continue making music 'until one of us is dead,' despite the band's intermittent breaks and his involvement in side projects.
September 16, 2008: Announcement of First Puscifer Store
Maynard James Keenan announced on September 16, 2008, that the first Puscifer store would be opening in Jerome, Arizona, expanding the project beyond music and into merchandise and a physical presence.
October 3, 2008: Opening of the Puscifer Store in Jerome
On October 3, 2008, the first Puscifer store opened its doors in Jerome, Arizona. The store offered merchandise, locally roasted coffee, art, and limited edition collectibles, reflecting the project's unique identity.
December 9, 2008: Keenan Hints at New A Perfect Circle Music
On December 9, 2008, Maynard James Keenan announced that he and Billy Howerdel were writing new music for A Perfect Circle, although not a full album. This marked a potential revival of the band after a period of inactivity.
2008: Keenan Promotes Wine at Whole Foods Markets
In the fall of 2008, Keenan, along with his business partner, promoted their wine with signings at Whole Foods Markets in California and Nevada.
March 24, 2009: Tool Announces Summer Tour and Festival Appearances
On March 24, 2009, Tool announced a summer tour on their website, confirming their participation in the Mile High Music Festival and Lollapalooza. These announcements marked a return to active touring for the band.
July 2009: Keenan Opens Organic Market and Tasting Room
Keenan opened an organic market in July 2009, featuring a tasting room for his Arizona wines and a food court.
November 2009: Puscifer Expands Beyond Southwest US
Despite primarily performing in the Southwest throughout 2009, Keenan announced in November 2009 that Puscifer would be touring eastward.
2009: Keenan Cameos in "Crank: High Voltage"
Keenan made a cameo appearance in the 2009 action film "Crank: High Voltage."
2009: Puscifer's Debut Cabaret-Style Performances
Puscifer, led by Maynard James Keenan, made their live debut with a series of cabaret-style shows in Paradise, Nevada. These shows, featuring a rotating cast of performers, were described as abstract and experimental, pushing the boundaries of traditional concert experiences.
February 25, 2010: "Blood into Wine" Documentary Premieres
The documentary "Blood into Wine: The Arizona Stronghold," chronicling Keenan and Eric Glomski's winemaking journey in Arizona, premiered at the Noise Pop Festival on February 25, 2010.
June 2010: Keenan Proposes to Lei Li
In June 2010, Maynard James Keenan announced his engagement to his girlfriend, Lei Li, who worked as the manager of his Caduceus lab.
November 2010: A Perfect Circle Returns from Hiatus with Western US Tour
After a hiatus of nearly six and a half years, A Perfect Circle embarked on a 14-show tour in the western United States in November 2010, signaling a return to live performances.
May 2011: A Perfect Circle's North American Tour
A Perfect Circle continued their return to touring with a North American tour across the US and Canada in May 2011, concluding in August of the same year.
October 18, 2011: "Conditions of My Parole" Released
On October 18, 2011, Keenan released Puscifer's second album, "Conditions of My Parole," which garnered generally positive reviews.
September 10, 2012: Keenan Publicly Acknowledges Wife
On September 10, 2012, Keenan subtly revealed his marriage to his wife, Lei Li, by referring to her as his wife in an article he wrote for the Phoenix New Times.
2012: A Perfect Circle's Performance in Las Vegas
A Perfect Circle performed a single show in Las Vegas on December 29, 2012, following a limited touring schedule that year.
2012: Cobras & Matadors Restaurant Closes
Keenan was a part-owner of the Los Angeles restaurant Cobras & Matadors, which closed in 2012.
January 2013: Keenan Announces Autobiography
In January 2013, Keenan announced that he was working on an autobiography.
February 19, 2013: "Donkey Punch the Night" EP Released
Keenan released "Donkey Punch the Night," a Puscifer EP featuring covers of Queen and Accept songs, on February 19, 2013. The EP received mixed reviews.
2013: A Perfect Circle's Australian and South American Tours
In early 2013, A Perfect Circle embarked on a five-show Australian tour and a three-show South American tour, expanding their reach to international audiences.
July 25, 2014: Keenan Becomes a Father
Maynard James Keenan and his wife, Lei Li, welcomed their daughter into the world on July 25, 2014.
May 2015: Keenan Appears on "Comedy Bang! Bang!"
In May 2015, Keenan made a cameo appearance as a fictional punk musician on an episode of the comedy series "Comedy Bang! Bang!"
November 8, 2016: "A Perfect Union of Contrary Things" Released
Keenan's authorized biography, "A Perfect Union of Contrary Things," was released on November 8, 2016.
2018: Keenan Accused of Sexual Assault
In 2018, a Twitter user, operating under the alias "@IWas17HeWas36", accused Maynard James Keenan of sexual assault. The alleged incident was said to have taken place after a Nine Inch Nails concert in 2000, where Keenan's other band, A Perfect Circle, was also performing. Keenan vehemently denied the allegation, characterizing it as a "despicable false claim" and criticizing those who chose to believe and spread the accusation.
August 7, 2019: Release of 'Fear Inoculum' Title Track
On August 7, 2019, Tool released the title track from their album 'Fear Inoculum' across streaming platforms, generating significant anticipation for the full album release.
November 2021: Keenan Promoted to Brown Belt in BJJ
Keenan's dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was evident when he was promoted to brown belt in November 2021.
January 2024: Keenan Achieves Black Belt in BJJ
In January 2024, Keenan's commitment to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu culminated in his promotion to black belt.