James “Munky” Shaffer, the famed co-founder and guitarist for nu-metal band Korn, has given a short interview with TMZ answering both questions relating to his sobriety and the passing of Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins.
When asked about claims that Hawkins had said that touring was negatively affecting him before his death, Munky expressed understanding about that type of feeling, pointing to how enablers on tours affected his journey to sobriety. Loudwire quotes the guitarist explaining that “I’ve struggled with my own addictions and mental health. It’s fucking hard, and you get out there and you get a lot [of] enablers. Especially if you deal with addiction, you have that tendency to want to go and do that. But like me, I’ve been sober 12 years — it’s hard to say no still. Even like, ‘Aw, let’s go — we’re gonna go to the hotel lobby and party.’ Man, I’m going to go to bed.'”
When asked about the death of Hawkins, the guitarist explained his feelings: “It’s so sad, I feel so bad for his family and his friends and Dave [Grohl],” the artist stated, “I want to send my love to Dave. … They’re such great guys. And musicians are so sensitive, really. You have all this persona onstage, but…”
The Foo Fighters have recently denied claims that Taylor Hawkins had wanted to tour less prior to his death, and Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam has explained that comments he has made suggesting as much were taken out of context. James Shaffer is only one of many around the world who continue to mourn the tragic death of Taylor Hawkins; The Red Hot Chili Peppers have recently honored the musician at their performance at the New Orleans Jazz Fest.