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Fieldy finally revealed the real reason behind his shocking departure from Korn after nearly 30 years. The co-founding bassist candidly explained his 2021 exit in a recent podcast interview. His answer surprised fans: “COVID happened. That’s it.”
🔥 Quick Facts
- Departure Year: June 2021, Fieldy stepped down from Korn after personal struggles
- Main Reason: COVID-19 uncertainty and vaccination hesitancy prevented tour participation
- Replacement: Ra Diaz took over bass duties for all live performances
- Current Status: “I’m retired from Korn today, but we’ll see what the day brings tomorrow”
The COVID Decision That Changed Everything
In a revealing podcast appearance on Shady Characters, Fieldy disclosed what truly prompted his unexpected exit. When asked about stepping away, he stated: “I didn’t get vaccinated or anything, but when you reflect on it, that’s what happened. They’re like ‘We’re going to Florida’ and I’m like ‘I’m not going to get vaccinated. I’m not going.'” The bassist explained that the unprecedented nature of the pandemic created hesitation he couldn’t overcome at the time.
Reginald “Fieldy” Arvizu, 56, emphasized that his refusal wasn’t purely ideological but rather a response to extraordinary circumstances. He reflected: “People, this is weird right now.” The global crisis forced the legendary bassist to prioritize personal concerns over touring commitments, a decision he has since come to terms with philosophically.
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A Forced Hiatus Sparked Personal Reflection
Fieldy revealed that the extended break actually provided unexpected benefits. “It gave me time to sit, and once you sit, you can reflect and you’re kind of just waiting for what’s next,” he shared with interviewer Richard Morrill. The bassist acknowledged that downtime allowed him crucial perspective on his nearly three-decade tenure with the legendary nu-metal pioneers.
He offered candid insights about the reality of long-term band membership: “You see bands kind of just go through these motions. A lot of bands, almost every time, it’s rare that all the same members stay.” Fieldy referenced Red Hot Chili Peppers and their revolving personnel as examples of this industry standard, suggesting his separation was part of typical band evolution rather than catastrophe.
From Personal Struggles to New Projects
| Timeline Event | Details |
| June 2021 | Initial hiatus announcement citing “bad habits” and personal issues |
| February 2025 | Confirmed absence from bandmates since 2019, no communication |
| 2026 (Recent) | New project with Sepultura drummer Greyson Nekrutman confirmed |
| April 2026 | Podcast clarifies retirement status: “retired today, but we’ll see tomorrow” |
During his hiatus, Fieldy confirmed involvement with a new musical venture. He acknowledged a photo circulated last year showing him with Sepultura‘s drummer Greyson Nekrutman and former Fear Factory bassist Christian Olde Wolbers, indicating collaborative work beyond Korn. The bassist expressed enthusiasm about his new collaborators, calling each drummer he’s encountered throughout his career “sick.”
“I’m retired from Korn today, but we’ll see what the day brings tomorrow.”
— Fieldy, Korn Bassist, Shady Characters Podcast
Looking Back on Three Decades Without Regrets
Despite the fractured relationship with his former bandmates, Fieldy expressed genuine gratitude for his Korn legacy. He stated: “I look back at my life and almost 30 years with Korn, that was a blast, man. I can’t explain it. It’s like you’re going to the ultimate thrill. It’s not easy but it is a blast. I don’t look back going ‘That sucked.'”
The bassist acknowledged that complaining about his success would be ungrateful. “I could look at it and complain, but how are you going to complain? That was everything everybody dreams of. And I got to go almost like a vet. I put in 30 years and now here I am. I’m cool with that,” he explained with philosophical acceptance about his departure and current standing.
Will Fieldy Ever Return to Korn for a Reunion?
When directly asked whether he considers himself permanently retired from Korn, Fieldy provided an ambiguous response that left the door open. His statement, “I’m retired from Korn today, but we’ll see what the day brings tomorrow,” suggests no absolute finality to separation. Ra Diaz continues handling bass responsibilities for the band, which continues touring and recording with five-piece lineup stability.
Since his exit announcement in 2021, Fieldy hasn’t spoken directly with Korn‘s members. According to February 2025 podcast revelations, he stated: “I haven’t talked to those guys since 2019.” Yet, a February 2026 photo showing Fieldy beside drummer Ray Luzier at NAMM convention sparked reunion speculation, suggesting possible thaw in relationships despite silence.
Sources
- Loudwire – Extensive interview coverage and Fieldy podcast appearance details
- The PRP – Podcast transcript documentation and retirement statement analysis
- Metal Sucks – Recent interview reporting and band status updates
