Shawn 'Clown' Crahan is one of the most renowned members of Slipknot. The percussionist and backing vocalist has dawned many different clown masks during his tenure with the band, all of them being some of the most memorable metal disguises in Slipknot's long history. You may consider Crahan to be irreplaceable, but Clown has plans for a worthy successor to to take over his role when he retires -- his son, Gage Crahan.

At 42 years old, Shawn Crahan is the oldest member of Slipknot. Although he's still going strong with Slipknot and a bunch of other musical projects, Crahan is realistic in knowing he can't go on forever. According to the Pulse of Radio, Crahan discussed his future retirement and why Gage should continue the legacy of the Clown.

"My oldest boy, when I do skip, he's gonna take over my slot," says Crahan. "He was sitting on the stair in diapers wearing my mask with sticks while we were downstairs trying to learn how to be a band. So when I leave, it won't be like I died and my son came in and tried to fill my place. I'm gonna bail, but I'm gonna hand over the throne and say, 'Hey, I can't do it anymore. You do it. You're my blood.'"

Gage Crahan has already been a part of Slipknot's creative history as a photographer for the band.

Slipknot are currently co-headlining 2012's massive Mayhem Festival, which also includes Motorhead, Slayer, Anthrax + many more.

More From Loudwire