Paul Gray

Paul Gray was an influential figure in the heavy metal scene as the bassist and one of the founding members of the American band Slipknot. Established in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1995, alongside percussionist Shawn Crahan and vocalist Anders Colsefni, Gray contributed to Slipknot's rise to fame and the development of their distinctive aggressive music style and energetic live performances. Before Slipknot, Gray had been active in the local music scene, playing in bands such as Inveigh Catharsis and Body Pit. His commitment to the band and to heavy metal music was deeply felt, and his passing on May 24, 2010, was mourned by band members and fans alike.