Overview
"Spit It Out" is a single released on September 4, 2000, by the American heavy metal band Slipknot. The track appears on the band's self‑titled debut album, often cited as one of the defining records of late‑1990s and early‑2000s nu metal. It was issued as the second commercial single from the album and helped raise the band's profile outside underground metal circles. For details on the single's release formats and track listings, see the single page here.
Musical characteristics
The song is characterized by fast, staccato rhythms, aggressive screamed and shouted vocals, and a tight, riff‑driven structure. It combines elements of hardcore, metal and hip hop‑influenced vocal delivery, and includes the percussion-heavy interplay and DJ textures that became hallmarks of Slipknot's early sound. The track's brevity and urgency make it a brisk, intense listening experience that contrasts with slower, more atmospheric material from the same album Slipknot.
Release and video
Released as a single in 2000, the song was accompanied by an official music video and promotional appearances that broadened the band’s audience. The single supported the band during a period of rapid touring and media attention following their debut album's initial success. For context on the album and its release, refer to the album entry Slipknot (album).
Reception and legacy
Critics and fans generally regard "Spit It Out" as one of the more frenetic and immediate tracks on Slipknot's debut record. It received radio play on rock and metal stations and became a recognizable part of the band's catalog. Though not the slowest or most experimental track on the album, its intensity contributed to Slipknot's reputation for aggressive live performances and helped cement their place in the metal scene of the era.
Live performances and notable facts
"Spit It Out" has been a frequent choice for live sets, often used to energize crowds. Its compact structure and call‑and‑response elements translate well to concert settings. The song's success contributed to the early momentum of Slipknot and remains a staple in discussions of their formative period and influence on heavy music in the 2000s.