Korn guitarist to tell story of recovery

Brian "Head" Welch isn't a typical rock star.

In 2005, he was battling alcoholism and drug addiction, was a single father and walked away from the popular Grammy-winning nu-rock band Korn, which he co-founded more than 20 years ago.

But what made guitarist Welch stand out in the rock 'n' roll world was becoming a born-again Christian later that year. Since then, he has published multiple books, including an autobiography about his turnaround, become frontman of the band Love and Death, and reunited and recorded a new album -- "The Paradigm Shift" -- with his original band.

With his long, dark dreadlocks and tattoos, Welch may look out of place in a church. According to the Rev. Ron Watts, pastor of La Croix Church in Cape Girardeau, that's one reason he's looking forward to seeing the guitarist in his church this weekend.

"This just shows you can't judge a book by its cover, as the old saying goes," Watts said. "It's not how someone looks on the outside, but who they are on the inside."

Although he's never heard Welch speak in person, Watts said he's listened to his speeches online and heard "great reports" from his visit two years ago to the First United Methodist Church in Sikeston, Mo.

When Welch comes to La Croix, he'll share his story.

"He'll be talking about his very severe drug addiction and some very troubling times when he was with the band Korn," said Watts. "It's a very powerful story of life change."

Most importantly, Watts said the rock star's story is a story of hope. Those who have struggled with drug and alcohol use in the past can hear Welch speak and know it's possible to overcome even the most severe addictions, he said. Those who have not struggled with addiction can still be inspired by his story, Watts said.

"Everyone likes to hear a story of recovery," he said.

Watts said people are excited to hear Welch speak this weekend.

"A lot of people are asking questions, and we have church members bringing friends to hear him speak," he said. "A lot of people are looking forward to it."

He's not sure what numbers to expect for attendance, but Watts said the guest speaker has "a lot of potential" to draw a crowd.

"I think he's going to encourage and speak to folks that other speakers might not be able to reach, myself included," said Watts. "He has a real following ..."

Welch will speak at 5:30 p.m. Saturday and at 9:30 and 11 a.m. Sunday at La Croix Church, 3102 Lexington Ave. The event is open to the public.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

3102 Lexington Ave., Cape Girardeau, Mo.