Tributes have been paid to Slipknot drummer Joey Jordison, who has died aged 46.
Jordison was one of the founding members of the heavy metal band, alongside percussionist Shawn Crahan and bassist Paul Gray, which formed in 1995 in Iowa.
In a statement widely reported by US media, his family said: “Joey’s death has left us with empty hearts and feelings of indescribable sorrow.
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“To those that knew Joey understood his quick wit, his gentle personality, giant heart and his love for all things family and music.”
Jordison left the band in 2013 before going on to play guitar for Murderdolls, and drum for Sinsaenum and Scar the Martyr.
Slipknot are known for their rousing live performances, which see them play in their iconic masks and boiler suits.
Playing two bass drums simultaneously, Jordison would have to be strapped to his seat as he performed from a spinning stage that rotated to a 90-degree angle.
Slipknot's self-titled debut album was certified double platinum in the US with more than two million sales, while three of their studio albums have gone platinum in the UK.
Following the news of his death, the band posted a black picture on Twitter and Instagram.
Ginger Wildheart, founder of The Wildhearts, tweeted: “Joey Jordison was better upside down than any other metal drummer sitting normally.”
Serj Tankian of System of a Down wrote: “RIP Joey J-an amazing drummer and a fantastic guy.”
Anthrax said “a great musician and person has left us”, while Trivium tweeted: “We are saddened by the news of the passing of our dear friend, Joey Jordison.
“From being able to share the stage with him numerous times throughout the years to Matt standing alongside him for the Roadrunner United album. He was always super gracious to all of us in Trivium.”
Royal Blood drummer Ben Thatcher said: "Sad to hear the passing of Joey Jordison.
"His drumming in Slipknot inspired me as a teenager, as it did to many other drummers my age. I’d spend a lot of time jamming that first album in the school music room. RIP."
Skunk Anansie's Skin said Slipknot were "one of the most ferocious and entertaining bands we ever played with", adding: "What a drummer! Rock has lost another legend."
Gallows drummer Lee Barratt tweeted: "RIP Joey Jordison, thanks for helping bring extreme music and drumming to the masses."
