Will Hunt

Will Hunt: the relentless drummer who turned session work into a legacy with Evanescence and metal's biggest names.

Will Hunt career timeline and touring with major rock bands

Will Hunt built a reputation as one of the most reliable drummers in modern rock and metal through decades of relentless touring and recording. His professional journey began in the 1990s with bands like Stuck Mojo and Slaughter, where he honed the precision and power that would later define his signature style. By the early 2000s, Hunt had become a go-to session player, filling in for high-profile acts including Mötley Crüe when Tommy Lee faced injury, and touring with Vince Neil and Methods of Mayhem.

The turning point came in 2007 when Will Hunt joined Evanescence as their touring drummer, eventually becoming an official member in 2010. This role elevated his visibility on the global stage, performing at major festivals and arena shows while contributing to the band's evolving sound. Hunt's ability to adapt to different musical contexts made him invaluable, whether backing Zakk Wylde in Black Label Society or supporting Italian rock icon Vasco Rossi on international tours.

Will Hunt drumming style and contributions to Evanescence albums

Will Hunt drumming approach blends acoustic power with electronic precision, a skill set that proved essential for Evanescence's orchestral and synthetic arrangements. On the Synthesis tour, he integrated Roland V-Drums alongside his acoustic kit, layering samples to match the band's cinematic production while maintaining the raw energy of live performance. This hybrid technique allowed him to navigate complex arrangements that demanded both dynamic subtlety and explosive impact.

As a songwriter, Will Hunt has co-written numerous tracks across Evanescence albums, including nine songs on The Bitter Truth released in 2021. His credits span Broken Pieces Shine, The Game is Over, Feeding the Dark, Wasted on You, Better Without You, Use My Voice, Take Cover, Part of Me, and Blind Belief, showcasing his versatility beyond the drum kit. Hunt's contributions extend to earlier work as well, with writing credits on Imperfection from the 2017 Synthesis album, demonstrating his lasting creative influence on the band's direction.

From Skrape to Dark New Day and the alternative metal network

Before his tenure with Evanescence, Will Hunt established himself in the alternative metal scene through his work with Skrape, serving as their drummer until 2004. He then joined Dark New Day full-time, collaborating with Clint Lowery and Corey Lowery while maintaining connections to the broader metal community. These projects positioned Hunt within a network of musicians who frequently crossed over between bands, creating a flexible ecosystem that supported continuous touring and recording opportunities.

Hunt's involvement with Device, a industrial rock side project, further demonstrated his adaptability across subgenres. He also performed with Static-X, Staind, Bloodsimple, and Crossfade, each requiring different rhythmic approaches and stage presences. This breadth of experience allowed Will Hunt to develop a chameleon-like ability to assimilate into any band's sound while adding his own distinctive touch to live performances and studio sessions alike.

Personal resilience and ongoing projects in the music industry

Will Hunt has faced significant personal challenges throughout his career, including the tragic loss of his father in a motorcycle accident, yet he continues to channel grief into creative output. His resilience shines through in recent interviews where he discusses moving forward with new musical ventures while honoring his past experiences. Hunt remains active with Evanescence, contributing to upcoming material while also pursuing side projects that keep his artistic vision fresh and evolving.

In 2026, Hunt launched Killington Pit alongside Terry LeRoi, Troy McLawhorn, and Chuck Garric, releasing original material that reflects his enduring passion for heavy music. The band's cover of Judas Priest's Riding on the Wind showcased his ability to modernize classic metal while paying homage to influences like Scott Travis. Through tempestuous industry changes and personal trials, Will Hunt maintains his status as a cornerstone of contemporary rock drumming, inspiring aspiring musicians with his dedication and versatility.