Brian Phillip "Head" Welch is an American musician, guitarist, songwriter and author. He is best known as the former lead guitarist and co-founder of the influential nu-metal band Korn.
Welch was born in Torrance, California on June 19, 1970 to Phillip and JoAnn Welch. He began playing guitar at the age of 12, inspired by hard rock bands such as Led Zeppelin, Kiss, and Van Halen. He attended the same high school as Korn's other founding members, Jonathan Davis, James "Munky" Shaffer, and Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu.
In 1993, Welch co-founded Korn with Davis, Shaffer, and Arvizu. Korn released their self-titled debut album in 1994, and with it, they quickly gained popularity and international stardom. Korn's second album, Life Is Peachy, which was released in 1996, featured some of Welch's most well-known guitar work, such as the single "A.D.I.D.A.S."
Welch left Korn in February 2005, citing spiritual struggles and drug addiction as the main factors for his departure. His struggles included a long battle with methamphetamine addiction, and he eventually became a born-again Christian. He celebrated his newfound faith with the release of his solo album, Save Me from Myself, in 2008.
In addition to his musical career, Welch has become an advocate for sobriety and spiritual healing. He has done numerous speaking engagements and has written two books, including his autobiography, Save Me from Myself, which documents his life before, during, and after Korn. Welch also formed a new band, Love and Death, in 2012.
Welch's work with Korn and subsequent solo work have earned him considerable recognition, and he has been nominated for three Grammy Awards. He also received the "Global Icon" award at the 2019 GMA Dove Awards, recognizing his impact on music and culture worldwide.
Welch remains an international figure in the metal and rock communities, and his influence on the music industry is undeniable. His life and work have inspired millions of people around the world who struggle with addiction and other personal issues. Welch continues to use his platform to advocate for sobriety and spiritual healing, and his story serves as an inspiration for anyone who is on a journey of self-discovery.
