Skillet

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Skillet
OriginMemphis, Tennessee, U.S.
GenresChristian rock, nu metal, alternative rock, hard rock
Years active1996–present
LabelsArdent Records, Atlantic Records, Lava Records
MembersJohn Cooper, Korey Cooper, Jen Ledger, Seth Morrison
Past membersKen Steorts, Trey McClurkin, Lori Peters, Ben Kasica, Jonathan Salas
Websiteskillet.com


Skillet is an American Christian rock band formed in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1996. The band currently consists of husband and wife John (lead vocals, bass) and Korey Cooper (rhythm guitar, keyboards, backing vocals), along with Jen Ledger (drums, vocals) and Seth Morrison (lead guitar). They are known for their nu metal and alternative rock style, which incorporates elements of symphonic metal and electronic music.

History[edit | edit source]

Formation and Early Years[edit | edit source]

Skillet was formed in 1996 by John Cooper, former vocalist for the experimental rock band Seraph, and Ken Steorts, former guitarist for Urgent Cry. The two met through their pastor at church and decided to form a band that could blend their respective musical styles and faith. They named the band Skillet because it symbolized bringing different tastes and styles into a single entity, much like a kitchen skillet.

Mainstream Success[edit | edit source]

The band first gained mainstream recognition with their fourth album, Collide, released in 2003. The album was later re-released by Lava Records in 2004 with the single "Savior" gaining significant radio play. Their next effort, Comatose (2006), furthered their popularity, receiving a Grammy nomination and certifications for selling over 500,000 copies.

Continued Success and Recent Activities[edit | edit source]

Skillet's 2009 album, Awake, included hits like "Hero" and "Monster," which are among the band's most successful and recognizable songs. Awake was certified platinum and solidified Skillet's place in both the Christian and mainstream rock markets. Their subsequent albums, Rise (2013), and Unleashed (2016), continued their success. The band's latest album, Victorious (2019), has been well received.

Musical Style and Influences[edit | edit source]

Skillet's music style has evolved over the years from a grunge-influenced sound in their early albums to a more polished rock sound with orchestral elements. Their lyrics often focus on themes such as faith, love, and personal struggle. Influences cited by the band include Metallica, Pearl Jam, and Linkin Park.

Impact and Legacy[edit | edit source]

Skillet has been recognized as one of the most successful rock bands in the Christian music scene, having received numerous Dove Awards and Grammy nominations. They are known for their energetic live performances and have a dedicated fan base known as "Panheads."

Discography[edit | edit source]

  • Skillet (1996)
  • Hey You, I Love Your Soul (1998)
  • Invincible (2000)
  • Ardent Worship (2000)
  • Alien Youth (2001)
  • Collide (2003)
  • Comatose (2006)
  • Awake (2009)
  • Rise (2013)
  • Unleashed (2016)
  • Victorious (2019)

Members[edit | edit source]

Current[edit | edit source]

  • John Cooper – lead vocals, bass (1996–present)
  • Korey Cooper – rhythm guitar, keyboards, backing vocals (1999–present)
  • Jen Ledger – drums, vocals (2008–present)
  • Seth Morrison – lead guitar (2011–present)

Former[edit | edit source]

  • Ken Steorts – guitar (1996–1999)
  • Trey McClurkin – drums (1996–2000)
  • Lori Peters – drums (2000–2008)
  • Ben Kasica – guitar (2001–2011)
  • Jonathan Salas – guitar (2011)

External Links[edit | edit source]

  • [Official website]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD