


"Paul was easy going, charismatic, enjoyed his music, cars, his fans, Starbucks and spending time with his family and friends. He loved his puppies and of course, smoking his Marlboro Reds" - Brenna Gray
Paul Gray, better known as #2 or "The Pig" because of the mask he wore while performing with Slipknot, helped form the group in 1995, along with current members Shawn "Clown" Crahan and Joey Jordison. Though the band's lineup shifted over the years with members departing or switching instruments, Paul Gray's position within the group remained constant: He was the only bass player Slipknot ever had.
Paul Gray was a founding figure of Slipknot and can never be replaced. During Slipknot's 2011 Summer tour, ex band member Donnie Steele filled in for him. Slipknot shows during this time featured Paul's jumpsuit and Self-Titled era pig mask on a stand, along with a bass guitar standing next to it. Fans honoured Paul with a two minute silence during the band's headline set at Sonisphere Festival, Knebworth. During the gig, Donnie Steele did not take to the stage, but instead played backstage not to take focus away from Paul Gray.