Korn is an iconic American metal band formed in 1993 in California. Known for its innovative style, which blends elements of metal, nu-metal, and alternative rock, the band has won two Grammy Awards and earned numerous other accolades throughout its career.

Korn Logo and Branding

The Korn logo has become synonymous with the band’s unique sound and identity. The name "Korn" itself was created as a playful variation of the word "corn," with the letter "C" replaced by a "K" to give it a distinctive look. The idea of a mirrored "R" was inspired by the band’s members who had worked for Toys "R" Us, incorporating a bit of the playful and chaotic nature of their work environment into the band's image. This blending of influences became the foundation for the band's signature logo.

The logo design was created by the band’s frontman, Jonathan Davis, who sketched it quickly with a crayon in one minute. Despite its rough, unrefined origins, the logo became an enduring symbol of Korn’s brand. The custom typeface, characterized by its chaotic, "childish" strokes, was later replicated by Astigmatic One Eye studio in their Kornucopia font, further solidifying the visual identity of the band.

Logo Evolution

Since its creation in 1994, the Korn logo has remained largely unchanged. However, in 1996, the logo received a slight modification. The contours of the letters were sharpened and extended to give it a more refined appearance while maintaining the original style. This version of the logo was only used for a short time, though, and the original logo has remained the primary symbol for the band.

The color palette for the Korn logo is typically monochrome, reflecting the band’s gritty, raw style. However, on occasion, the logo has been executed with scarlet red, adding intensity and evoking the high-energy, rebellious spirit the band embodies.

The Korn logo, with its distinctive lines and unpolished aesthetic, perfectly captures the band’s approach to music—raw, authentic, and unapologetically bold. It has become an instantly recognizable symbol for fans around the world, embodying the band's identity as pioneers of the nu-metal genre.