About this interview
In a 2008 interview with Ryan Minic of Ryan’s Rock Show, Dez Fafara of DevilDriver reflected on his journey from Coal Chamber to fronting one of modern metal’s most consistent bands. He discussed his love for music, calling himself “blessed” to be able to do it twice—first with Coal Chamber and now with DevilDriver, selling out venues like the House of Blues with a new band.
Fafara recalled his early ambitions, revealing that he got his first tattoo at 15 and told his mother he was going to be a rock star. While he never imagined the level of success he would reach, he knew from a young age that music was his calling. However, he admitted there were moments when he considered walking away—especially during Coal Chamber’s final years when methamphetamine use tore the band apart. At one point, he debated retiring, having already toured with Ozzy Osbourne, Pantera, and Black Sabbath, but his wife encouraged him to continue pursuing his passion.
Discussing the evolution of the music industry, Fafara was vocal about his frustration with illegal downloads, blaming platforms like iTunes for allowing pirated music to be played on iPods. He predicted a future where music would be streamed directly from a satellite to prevent unauthorized copying. Despite the decline in record sales, he emphasized the importance of supporting underground artists who continue to make music out of love rather than financial gain.
On a personal level, Fafara talked about his belief in karma, his views on life and death, and his commitment to surrounding himself with positive people. He revealed that he is a vegetarian and touched on spiritual ideas, expressing skepticism about heaven and hell while believing in the weight of the soul. He also shared his admiration for blues legends like Robert Johnson, highlighting his deep appreciation for various styles of music beyond metal.
Looking ahead, Fafara expressed his hopes for DevilDriver to maintain strong friendships within the band, keep releasing records, and continue growing.