Jonathan Davis, the storied frontman of critically lauded rock band Korn, has released “What It Is,” the diverse and distinctive first single from his forthcoming debut solo album. Fans can hear the new song and watch the music video now below.
The new music represents a natural step for the Bakersfield, CA singer, songwriter, composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. Davis quietly compiled ideas for what would become this solo effort beginning back in 2007. Writing and recording on the road, he personally contributed guitar, keys, and anything else he could get his hands on to the record. Moreover, the music was primarily recorded live, a departure from Korn’s heavily calculated, meticulous, studio approach to creation.
“It took 10 years, and I’m so glad this project is finally out. It is something that is very close to me and I’m excited for the world to finally hear it. This time, I’m pulling something out of the audience,” Davis reveals. “I’ve bared my soul for so fucking long, I thought it’d be really cool to pull listeners in a different direction for once.”
The lead single “What It Is,” for example, reveals hints of ominous piano keys, which bleed into a slow-burning verse before thick guitars snap towards an expansive and engaging refrain punctuated by his dynamic vocals. “I’m taking them out of that dark place and into somewhere that’s spiritual, positive, and makes them really think,” he adds. “It’s just art. I’ve changed lives with Korn, but I wanted to open minds with this shit.”
“I remember exactly when and where I was the first time I heard Jonathan’s vocals and Korn’s seven string guitars behind him,” recalls Sumerian Records founder Ash Avildsen. “The world had never heard anything like it. His voice has been so culturally impactful that those same songs from two decades ago are still played countless times every day. As a true icon and pioneer artist, the influential significance of his music is unparalleled in the modern rock era. If it wasn’t for what he created, I would not have ended up where I am today, nor would have many Sumerian bands. It is truly an honor to be releasing the debut Jonathan Davis solo album. The record is absolutely brilliant, showing new depths to his songwriting and vocal performances that the world has yet to experience.”