Slipknot’s Clown Champions AI as “A Professor in My Pocket” Enhancing Creativity

Slipknot’s Clown shares his perspective on AI as an empowering tool for musicians, calling it a “professor in my pocket” that works only as you direct.

Slipknot’s enigmatic percussionist Clown, aka Shaun Crahan, recently opened up about his enthusiastic embrace of artificial intelligence. Far from fearing the digital wave, Clown affectionately describes AI as “a professor in my pocket who only wants to do what I ask it.” If you’ve ever wondered how metal’s theatrical mastermind views tech’s latest frontier, this insight is worth a read.

Clown’s Lifelong Dance with AI and Creativity

Clown isn’t just dabbling—he says he’s “employing AI 190 percent,” sharing that he’s been using it throughout his life. Imagine that: a seasoned artist, known for his visceral and raw performances, teaming up with technology to breathe new life into his craft. He treats AI like a trusty co-pilot, a creative sidekick that doesn’t replace the artist but amplifies the possibilities.

He explained how he’s transformed “thousands and thousands” of poems he’s written since his youth using AI—turning raw words into fresh ideas without losing their essence. “No one needs to use it,” he says, emphasizing that it’s just a tool, not a mandate.

To illustrate, he shared a simple but powerful approach:

“Here are my words. Don’t change them. Don’t alter them. But show me some different ways to sing it.”

This is the kind of relationship with AI that many creatives can relate to—a way to explore new angles rather than surrender control.

AI vs. Traditional Producers: A Game Changer?

Clown draws an intriguing comparison between AI and the traditional music production process. Instead of shelling out roughly $150,000 for a famous producer who might only offer “one or two ways” to shape a song—and who might not even vibe with the artist—why not have an affordable, ever-ready AI assistant in your pocket?

He admits, though, that AI is no magic wand:

“It’s still going to take me to sing it. And it will never be like it was.”

The key? The human element remains irreplaceable. The AI is “a giant oracle,” but without you—the artist—it’s just noise. This reminds me of that old saying: tools don’t craft masterpieces; artists do. AI is just a new kind of brush.

Clown of Slipknot, the masked percussionist, blending art and technology.

Slips and Snags: Bandmates at Odds Over AI

Interestingly, Clown’s forward-thinking stance contrasts sharply with Slipknot’s lead vocalist Corey Taylor’s views. In 2023, Taylor didn’t mince words, revealing he “can’t stand” AI-generated music. When asked about it, he said:

“I don’t care for any of that crap dude, to be honest... Are they trying to prove that computers can do things just as good as people? Because if so, then what’s the point?”

This division within the band captures the broader cultural debate about AI in music: innovation versus authenticity, machine-made versus human-made.

Slipknot’s Long-Awaited Lost Album: ‘Look Outside Your Window’

Speaking of creations in the works, Clown also touched on Slipknot’s much-anticipated “lost” album, Look Outside Your Window. Fans have been teased with hints of this mysterious project since 2019. Back then, Crahan revealed the band was gearing up for its release, and Corey Taylor shared that he had “tried like hell to make those worlds come together” to finalize it.

Meanwhile, guitarist Jim Root joked about threatening to leak the album multiple times, adding a playful edge to this long, slow-burn project.

In a recent Discord Q&A, Clown apologized for the delay but gave fans a hopeful timeline:

“I know I told everyone it would be this year. I’m very sorry it hasn’t been. Things come to play that change things all the time with the art we create... 2026 is the year. It’s just simply time and I’m just getting tired of waiting myself. Have faith. I promise.”

That’s music to many ears—a promise that the wait will soon be over.

Slipknot - The Dying Song (Time To Sing)

For a taste of Slipknot’s current sound, check out their music video for “The Dying Song (Time To Sing)” below:

The Takeaway: Embracing AI Without Losing the Human Touch

Clown’s outlook on AI is refreshing because it highlights a balance—technology as an enhancer, not a replacer. Whether a poet, musician, or visual artist, having a “professor in your pocket” who offers endless creative possibilities without erasing your voice sounds like a dream come true.

Yet, the contrast with Corey Taylor’s skepticism reminds us there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The future of music might just be this dynamic tension between raw human emotion and cutting-edge innovation—a blend that keeps genres evolving and fans guessing.

FAQ

• How does Clown use AI in his music?
  Clown uses AI to explore new ways of singing his lyrics and to transform thousands of his poems into fresh artistic expressions while keeping the original words intact.
• Why does Clown call AI a "professor in my pocket"?
  Because AI offers creative suggestions and guidance without taking control, acting like a helpful teacher that listens and responds to his commands.
• What is Corey Taylor’s opinion on AI-generated music?
  Corey Taylor expressed strong dislike for AI-generated music, questioning its purpose and emphasizing the unique value of human creativity.
• When is Slipknot’s ‘Look Outside Your Window’ album expected to release?
  According to Clown, the album is scheduled for release in 2026, after several delays and extended teasing from the band.
• Can AI replace human musicians according to Clown?
  No, Clown believes AI cannot replace humans; it requires the artist’s input and voice to truly create meaningful music.

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