Deftones’ Chino Moreno on Getting the “Thumbs Up” from Madonna: A Mind-Blowing Moment

How Deftones' frontman Chino Moreno felt when Madonna herself gave her seal of approval early in their career.

When Madonna Said “Yes”: A Moment to Remember

There are few moments in a musician’s life as surreal as being recognized by one of your idols. For Chino Moreno, the charismatic frontman of Deftones, that moment came early on when the band was signed to Maverick Records — the label co-founded by none other than Madonna.

Chino Moreno meeting Madonna during their early days with Maverick Records.

Back in 1995, Deftones were among the first artists to be signed by Maverick Records. They launched their career under the banner of this label, releasing five albums including their iconic debut Adrenaline. Speaking about their first encounter, Moreno told the Irish Times:

“That same day we were invited to the record-label offices in Beverly Hills, where I got to meet Madonna, which was mind-blowing.”

The A&R rep Guy Oseary and Maverick co-founder Freddy DeMann had flown the band out from Sacramento to Los Angeles, where they played some songs in a rehearsal space. That meeting with the Queen of Pop herself – and receiving her enthusiastic “thumbs up” – was something the then 20-year-old Moreno found hard to take in.

“It was crazy to be a 20 year-old kid and have somebody whose music I’ve been listening to since I was 10 years-old give us her approval. It was hard to take in.”

Backstage Nerves and Creative Freedom

The story doesn't end with just a thumbs-up. Madonna reportedly attended several of Deftones’ concerts over the years. Moreno described those moments as nerve-wracking — after all, having one of the biggest stars in the world watching you is no small thing.

“They were a little nerve-wrenching, because you knew she was watching you... It was awesome and very, very cool.”

What’s even more impressive is how Madonna respected their artistic autonomy. Moreno praised her for not meddling in their creative process, allowing Deftones to be authentically themselves.

“She wasn’t as hands-on as maybe you would think. In no way was she dictating our creative direction or anything like that, and, in general, the label let us be us.”

From Madonna’s Approval to Liam Gallagher’s Nod

Fast forward to recent times, and Moreno’s journey continues to be marked by recognition from music legends. This summer, Liam Gallagher — the iconic Oasis frontman — tweeted about Moreno after a fan shared a backstage photo of the two at a festival.

The fan tweeted: “Do you remember meeting Chino Moreno from Deftones? You two look absolutely BEAUTIFUL.” Liam’s reply? Simply:

“He’s a dude.”

Moreno humorously recounted how he had to ask his PR what that meant, unsure if it was praise or not. Turns out, it was high praise indeed.

“Awesome, I love it.”

Moreno also mentioned his plans to see Oasis perform in Chicago during their current North American reunion tour — a tour that’s ignited excitement across generations.

Deftones and the Power of Timeless Music

Reflecting on their enduring appeal over more than three decades, Moreno shared his amazement at the multigenerational fanbase Deftones have cultivated:

“Multiple generations are into what we’re doing. When I’m on stage, it is inspiring to look out there and see fresh faces, and familiar faces as well. I don’t think that’s something that any of us anticipated.”

He also compared this with the massive hype Oasis generated for their reunion shows:

“I can say that without sounding arrogant about Oasis, too: that’s why their shows are what they are and why they have this broad demographic there. They write great songs. I’m not saying we write as great a song as they do, but I’m saying that if you go through a catalogue, there are a handful of songs that transcend time.”

Celebrating ‘Private Music’: Deftones’ 10th Album

This vibrant chapter coincides with the release of Deftones’ 10th studio album, Private Music. It’s a record that critics and fans alike have praised for its intense beauty and raw power.

The album was lauded as a "gift for fans old, new, and certainly finding them in the very distant future," described as:

"...masters of beauty and brutality rolling over the horizon in one stunning but powerful storm... very much a whole journey through a full-bodied and expansive fever dream, but this time somehow spiritual, intimate and direct."

Upcoming UK and European Tour

Looking ahead, Deftones are gearing up for a series of UK and European dates in 2026, highlighted by a massive show at The O2 in London on February 20. They’ll be joined by special guests Denzel Curry and Drug Church, promising a night of unforgettable music.

Wrapping It Up: From Respect to Legacy

Chino Moreno’s story, from nervously meeting Madonna to earning nods from music giants like Liam Gallagher, is a testament to the enduring power of authenticity and artistry. It’s a journey that mirrors the band’s evolution—grounded in respect, fearless creativity, and a timeless connection with fans spanning generations.

What’s your favorite moment from Deftones’ incredible career? Did Madonna’s early endorsement surprise you? Share your thoughts and memories!

FAQ

• How did Deftones get signed to Maverick Records?
  Their A&R rep Guy Oseary discovered them and, with Freddy DeMann, brought them to Los Angeles for a showcase, leading to their signing.
• What was Chino Moreno’s reaction to meeting Madonna?
  He found it "mind-blowing" and hard to believe that an artist he revered since childhood gave them her approval.
• Did Madonna influence Deftones’ creative direction?
  No, she allowed the band full creative freedom and wasn’t hands-on with their music.
• What did Liam Gallagher say about Chino Moreno?
  Liam called him "a dude" in a tweet, which Moreno later learned was a compliment.
• When is Deftones’ next big tour?
  They are set to tour the UK and Europe in 2026, including a headline show at The O2 in London on February 20.

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