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Our Complete List Of Skillet Band Members looks at a band that has managed to break barriers and achieve commercial success, all while sticking to its Christian rock roots. Founded in 1996 in Memphis, Tennessee, by John Cooper, the lead vocalist and bassist, Skillet has undergone several lineup changes over the years but has always maintained a loyal following.
The band’s journey began with their self-titled debut album, “Skillet,” released in 1996. Featuring the founding members John Cooper and Ken Steorts, along with drummer Trey McClurkin, the album laid the groundwork for what was to come. Ken Steorts left the band in 1999, paving the way for a new era with Korey Cooper, John’s wife, who joined as a rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist. The inclusion of Korey in the lineup added depth to the band’s sound and introduced a new dynamic that would become a hallmark of Skillet’s music.
The early 2000s were a transformative period for Skillet, marked by lineup changes and musical experimentation. Kevin Haaland replaced Steorts on the guitar, and Lori Peters took over the drums from Trey McClurkin. During this period, Skillet released the album “Invincible,” which began to garner the band more attention. Kevin Haaland eventually left, making way for Ben Kasica, who would become an integral part of Skillet’s signature sound.
The band hit a high note with the release of “Collide” in 2003, which was later re-released by a mainstream label, Lava Records, in 2004. This was followed by “Comatose” in 2006, which was a commercial and critical success, earning them a Grammy nomination. During this period, Skillet underwent another lineup change with Lori Peters leaving the band. She was replaced by Jen Ledger in 2008, a gifted drummer and vocalist from England, adding another layer to the band’s increasingly complex sound.
In 2009, Skillet released “Awake,” featuring hits like “Monster” and “Hero,” solidifying their place in the mainstream rock arena. Kasica departed in 2011 and was replaced briefly by Jonathan Salas and then permanently by Seth Morrison. With the new lineup, Skillet released “Rise” in 2013, which was another commercial success, followed by “Unleashed” in 2016 and “Victorious” in 2019.
Skillet’s music has always been characterized by a blend of hard rock, electronic elements, and symphonic touches, all anchored by John Cooper’s powerful vocals and spiritually uplifting lyrics. Over the years, they’ve sold more than 12 million albums and received several awards, including a Billboard Music Award for “Top Christian Album.”
John Cooper
John Cooper is the founding member and frontman of the Christian rock band Skillet, which was formed in 1996. He plays bass and serves as the lead vocalist. Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, John has been a part of all of Skillet’s studio albums, from the self-titled debut in 1996 to their latest releases. Some of the band’s most popular songs, including “Monster,” “Hero,” and “Awake and Alive,” were co-written by him. Outside of Skillet, John has worked on side projects but remains most prominently known for his role in Skillet.
Korey Cooper
Korey Cooper, married to John Cooper, joined the band in 1999. She plays rhythm guitar, keyboards, and provides backing vocals. Korey has been an integral part of the band’s sound and success, contributing to the writing process and adding depth to the band’s musical texture. She has been a part of all albums from “Invincible” (2000) onward. Korey is originally from Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Jen Ledger
Jen Ledger, the band’s drummer and female vocalist, joined Skillet in 2008. Originally from Coventry, England, she replaced Lori Peters and made her debut on the album “Awake” (2009). She’s also contributed to subsequent albums and has sung co-lead on hits like “Hero” and “Awake and Alive.” Jen has also pursued a solo career, releasing her self-titled EP “Ledger” in 2018.
Seth Morrison
Seth Morrison is the lead guitarist for Skillet and joined the band in 2011. He hails from Portsmouth, Ohio. His first album with Skillet was “Rise” (2013), and he has been with the band for the albums released thereafter. Seth is known for his technical prowess and has contributed to Skillet’s evolving sound.
Ken Steorts
Ken Steorts was one of the original founding members of Skillet, playing guitar for the band from 1996 until 1999. He was a part of the first two albums, “Skillet” and “Hey You, I Love Your Soul.” After leaving Skillet, he went on to found the Visible Music College in Memphis, Tennessee.
Kevin Haaland
Kevin Haaland joined Skillet as their guitarist in 1999, replacing Ken Steorts. He played on the album “Invincible.” He left the band in 2001 and has remained relatively low-key in the music industry since his departure.
Ben Kasica
Replacing Haaland in 2001, Ben Kasica played lead guitar for Skillet until 2011. Originally from the Boston area, Kasica was a part of key albums like “Collide,” “Comatose,” and “Awake.” He left to focus on his production work and other ventures, including his production company, Skies Fall Media Group.
Jonathan Salas
Jonathan Salas had a brief stint with Skillet as a guitarist in 2011. He replaced Ben Kasica but left shortly after joining and was succeeded by Seth Morrison.
Trey McClurkin
Trey McClurkin was an original member of Skillet, serving as the drummer from 1996 to 2000. He played on the band’s first two albums before departing. His post-Skillet activities in the music industry are not widely documented.
Lori Peters
Lori Peters succeeded Trey McClurkin as the drummer in 2000 and was part of albums like “Alien Youth,” “Collide,” and “Comatose.” She hails from Michigan and was instrumental in some of Skillet’s early successes. She left in 2008 and was replaced by Jen Ledger.
Each of these musicians has played a pivotal role in shaping Skillet’s distinctive sound, contributing to its status as one of the most successful bands in the Christian rock genre.
Complete List Of Skillet Band Members article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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