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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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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
