Craig Jones, also known to fans as #5 or 133, is one of heavy metal’s most enigmatic figures. Born on February 11, 1972, in Des Moines, Iowa, Jones carved a niche as Slipknot’s silent architect, blending samples, keyboards, and eerie audio effects to shape the band’s aggressive, chaotic sound. His departure from Slipknot in 2023 marked the end of an era, leaving a legacy of mystery and innovation that continues to influence the metal world.
Despite his reserved personality, Jones’ contributions were pivotal in propelling Slipknot to Grammy-winning global fame, earning a devoted following known as Maggots. Over nearly three decades, his blend of technological wizardry and musical instinct made him an essential, though understated, force behind the band’s identity.
Quick Facts of Craig Jones
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Craig Michael Jones (also cited as Craig Alan Jones) |
| Date of Birth | February 11, 1972 |
| Place of Birth | Des Moines, Iowa, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Early Life | Grew up in Des Moines; played in local metal bands like Modifidious |
| Education | Self-taught in music technology and sampling |
| Career Beginnings | Joined Slipknot in 1996 as guitarist, later moved to sampler/keyboardist |
| Notable Works | All Slipknot albums from Slipknot (1999) to The End, So Far (2022) |
| Spouse | Mary Taylor (current); Evangeline Marie Jones (ex) |
| Children | At least one child (private) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10–20 million |
| Major Achievements | Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance (2006, “Before I Forget”) |
Early Life and Iowa Metal Roots
Craig Jones grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, immersed in the city’s underground extreme metal scene. While much of his personal history remains private, he played in bands like Modifidious alongside future Slipknot members. This early exposure honed his musical skills and fostered a fascination with audio experimentation, combining heavy riffs with innovative sampling.
Raised in a working-class environment, Jones drew inspiration from the industrial grit surrounding him. Though little is publicly known about his family, his dedication to music and preference for privacy became defining traits that shaped his career.
Slipknot Career – From Guitar to Sampler
Jones joined Slipknot in 1996, initially replacing guitarist Donnie Steele. Soon, he transitioned to sampler and keyboardist, a move that allowed the band to expand its sonic palette and incorporate eerie, cinematic soundscapes. His role added depth and texture, setting Slipknot apart in the nu-metal movement.
Key milestones include:
- Slipknot (1999): Debut album with chilling samples, like the Manson documentary clips in “742617000027.”
- Iowa (2001): Industrial intensity and layered keyboards.
- Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses) (2004): Nuanced keyboard contributions amid experimental sounds.
Jones’ contributions helped Slipknot achieve multiple platinum albums, sold-out arenas, and Grammy recognition for “Before I Forget” in 2006. His quiet presence contrasted with the band’s theatrical aggression, earning him the nickname “The Quiet One” and the tech-inspired alias “133.”
Personal Life and Privacy
Craig Jones has been married twice: to Evangeline Marie Jones (1998–2003) and later to Mary Taylor, with whom he has at least one child. True to his reclusive nature, he keeps his personal life private, avoiding social media and public appearances. His 2023 departure from Slipknot was reportedly motivated by family priorities and possible health concerns for his wife.
Fans respect his discretion, and his focus on fatherhood and home life contrasts with Slipknot’s high-energy public persona.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2025, Craig Jones’ net worth is estimated between $10 and $20 million, derived primarily from:
- Slipknot royalties and album sales
- Touring and festival earnings
- Merchandise and music production credits
He maintains a modest lifestyle, focusing on family and music technology. His contributions, while behind the scenes, cemented his status as one of metal’s most influential innovators.
Legacy and Influence
Craig Jones’ legacy is defined by restraint, mystery, and technical innovation. He demonstrated that silence can be as powerful as the loudest scream, shaping Slipknot’s sound for decades. His work influenced a generation of metal musicians in sampling, keyboard design, and live performance techniques.
Even after stepping away from the spotlight, Jones remains a revered figure in metal, reminding fans that some of the greatest legends thrive in obscurity.
Interesting Facts
- Nicknamed “133” after the processor speed of his first computer.
- Rarely speaks in public, enhancing his mysterious persona.
- Known for dark humor and tech-savvy skills, including managing band websites.
- Infamous for his horror-inspired masks and visual presence on stage.
Craig Jones’ story illustrates the power of subtlety and technical mastery in music. Though he has left the stage, his influence on Slipknot and the broader metal community continues to echo, proving that true artistry often speaks in silence.
