Korn’s Brian ‘Head’ Welch recently explained why he remains grateful to this day. He shared his perspective on money and fame in an interview with Loudwire.
The guitarist reflected on his departure from the band in 2005 and his subsequent journey of self-discovery.
“I left [Korn] in 2005, a loser drug addict with nothing,” Welch said. “I had a lot of money and awards and everything — but I had nothing. I didn’t know who I was.”
He continued to describe how giving up his previous lifestyle led to personal growth and eventual gratitude.
“I gave it all up to find who I was,” he explained. “It took a few years to really get to know my new self and to be given this last decade or more back with Korn to see the grown and the connection with the fans, I’m just living in gratitude every day.”
Welch’s departure from Korn was triggered by a shocking discovery that changed his life forever. The guitarist’s decision to leave the band came after he found speed addicts living with his wife and young daughter. This prompted him to take his child and return to Bakersfield near his parents for safety.
Following his exit from the band, Welch underwent a dramatic personal transformation that included a Christian conversion. Blabbermouth reported that he launched his solo project Love and Death. He released a debut album in 2008 as he explored his new spiritual path and musical direction.
The path back to Korn began unexpectedly in 2012 during an emotional onstage reunion at Carolina Rebellion festival. Loudwire noted that Welch joined the band onstage for the first time since his departure seven years earlier. His daughter was present to witness the historic moment.
The reunion proved to be more than just a one-time performance. Revolver documented that this unplanned reunion at the North Carolina rock festival ultimately led to Welch’s permanent return to the band in 2013. This marked the end of his eight-year absence from Korn.
The guitarist’s journey from addiction and departure to spiritual awakening and eventual reunion demonstrates his commitment to personal growth while maintaining his connection to the music and fans that shaped his career.
