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With My Eyes Wide Open: Miracles and Mistakes on My Way Back to KoRn
He left KoRn to help himself. He went back to help others. And along the way, he nearly lost everything. A life-changing spiritual awakening freed Brian “Head” Welch from a stranglehold of drugs and alcohol and prompted him to leave the highly successful nu-metal band KoRn in 2005. What followed was a decade-long trial by fire, from the perils of fathering a teen lost in depression and self-mutilation to the harsh realities of playing solo and surviving the shattering betrayal of a trusted friend. In this intensely inspiring redemption saga, perhaps most inspiring is Brian’s radical decision to rejoin KoRn and reconcile with the tribe of people he once considered family in the metal music scene. Brian returned to his musical roots with a clear head and a devoted heart. Though his story is wild, hilarious, and deeply poignant, the message is simple: God will love you into the freedom of being yourself, as long as you keep the relationship going and never, ever quit.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published May 17, 2016
149 people are currently reading
1052 people want to read
About the author
Brian Welch
26 books113 followersFormer lead guitarist for the band Korn, see Brian "Head" Welch
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
June 20, 2018
Brian "Head" Welch. With My Eyes Wide Open.Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016. 214 pp. $16.36
With My Eyes Wide Open is the biographical account by Brian "Head" Welch, guitarist for the popular metal band, KoRn. Welch describes his conversion to the Christian faith, his departure from Korn, and the days of bitter pain which followed. After several years away from the band, Welch tells the tale of his journey back into the band and some of the more recent events which mark his life. The author invites readers into his world - days that were marked by betrayal, loneliness, questioning, doubt, and a rebellious daughter.
Welch writes with a level of transparency that is difficult to find these days. He does not shy away from sharing the painful details of his life, even as a Christian. The author is quick to point of how God's grace transformed his life but also shares the low points of his Christian journey.
I have written nearly five hundred book reviews over the past several years. I seek to honestly review books,commending the good and warning what may be antithetical to historic Christianity. This book is no exception. While the story presented here is inspiring and heart-warming, there are some troubling signs that need to be addressed in an honest review. I present these critiques as if Brian Welch and I enjoyed a cup of coffee together in a local cafe. I would encourage the author to:
1. Be driven and motivated by God's Word, not emotions or feelings. Throughout the book, Welch refers to “signs” which inform many of his decisions. Feelings, while important should follow the truth of God’s Word not dictate God’s Word.
2. Get grounded in biblical and systematic theology. Such an approach will require breaking free from groups like Bethel church that focus on mystical experience and downplay doctrine. The recent article in Christianity Today is a helpful look at some of the troubling trends in groups like Bethel.
It would be easy to cast aside these doctrinal concerns and focus on the redemptive aspects of the biographical tale. But setting aside doctrine is tantamount to compromise and must be avoided at all costs.
With My Eyes Wide Open is the biographical account by Brian "Head" Welch, guitarist for the popular metal band, KoRn. Welch describes his conversion to the Christian faith, his departure from Korn, and the days of bitter pain which followed. After several years away from the band, Welch tells the tale of his journey back into the band and some of the more recent events which mark his life. The author invites readers into his world - days that were marked by betrayal, loneliness, questioning, doubt, and a rebellious daughter.
Welch writes with a level of transparency that is difficult to find these days. He does not shy away from sharing the painful details of his life, even as a Christian. The author is quick to point of how God's grace transformed his life but also shares the low points of his Christian journey.
I have written nearly five hundred book reviews over the past several years. I seek to honestly review books,commending the good and warning what may be antithetical to historic Christianity. This book is no exception. While the story presented here is inspiring and heart-warming, there are some troubling signs that need to be addressed in an honest review. I present these critiques as if Brian Welch and I enjoyed a cup of coffee together in a local cafe. I would encourage the author to:
1. Be driven and motivated by God's Word, not emotions or feelings. Throughout the book, Welch refers to “signs” which inform many of his decisions. Feelings, while important should follow the truth of God’s Word not dictate God’s Word.
2. Get grounded in biblical and systematic theology. Such an approach will require breaking free from groups like Bethel church that focus on mystical experience and downplay doctrine. The recent article in Christianity Today is a helpful look at some of the troubling trends in groups like Bethel.
It would be easy to cast aside these doctrinal concerns and focus on the redemptive aspects of the biographical tale. But setting aside doctrine is tantamount to compromise and must be avoided at all costs.
August 26, 2018
Somewhere out there is a Christian celebrity who's been approached with a book deal and has replied, "Naw, dude. I'm a decent musician/actor/athlete, but 'average' would be a generous description of my Christian life, and I cannot be trusted to put together a coherent and orthodox theological thought." I'm beginning to think that that's the only Christian celebrity whose memoir I'd want to read.
November 7, 2016
I like to read autobiography and I thought this would be an intriguing read. I haven't read his first book and maybe if I had this would have made more sense.
I am not a heavy metal music fan and I found some of the lingo used irritating.
Brian Welch has had an interesting life, he's made mistakes and he has sought God to help him through the trials of life.
This book could have been so much more, and written so much better.
I am not a heavy metal music fan and I found some of the lingo used irritating.
Brian Welch has had an interesting life, he's made mistakes and he has sought God to help him through the trials of life.
This book could have been so much more, and written so much better.
June 19, 2017
After I decided to consider Luck, Love, and Lemon Pie a DNF (did not finish) I moved on to reading With My Eyes Wide Open by Brian “Head” Welch. I’ve always been a big fan of KoRn and I remember when Head first made the announcement that he was leaving KoRn to focus on raising his daughter as a single dad. I knew that he’d devoted his life to following Jesus and religion played a major role in his new life. I also remember when he rejoined KoRn. This book shares his life as a single dad, his tense relationship with his daughter, and the struggles he faced between leaving KoRn and their reunion. I love KoRn and I love Brian “Head” Welch but, unfortunately, I did not love this book.
I read it start to finish in 2 days. Admittedly, I stuck with it because I was stunned by the terrible decisions Head was making. It had nothing to do with this being a book that was capturing my attention. As a Christian myself I understand following where you feel God is leading you. I just couldn’t believe that Head allowed religion to blind him to the con artists that continually manipulated him and drove him into bankruptcy. The entire time I was reading it I kept thinking that surely he couldn’t be that blind to what was happening. He was with KoRn for years, surely he knew the importance of contracts and the risk of shady business deals. Just…damn Head. Really?!?
He was well-intentioned with his daughter, Jennea, but I was stunned at poor decision after poor decision. He left KoRn to spend more time with her then rips her out of school, continues to move her around, gets her a dog just to give it away, and continues to make terrible decisions that drive his family into bankruptcy. Over and over again I found myself wanting to like the book but feeling annoyed and frustrated. I hate to say it, but it almost succeeded in making me less of a fan. Just…really Head? I mean, every single decision was horrible.
It also irritated me that he fell back on religion as the reason for everything. I get it. I share his faith but personal accountability goes a long way and God did grant us free will. Head struck me as one of those people that discovers faith and then uses it as an excuse to justify everything in his life – good and bad. It doesn’t work like that. You have free will. You’re responsible for your behavior and decisions, even the shitty ones. You can’t claim you’re under attack for your faith when things are bad and claim that God is blessing you when things are good and use religion as a way of avoiding taking responsibility for your own life.
As a last note – this book desperately needs a good editor. I feel like it could have been a million times better if an editor went through it and cleaned it up. I received an early copy of it through NetGalley and I know it’s not a final edition but damn. I mean…I just…I’m so disappointed in this. It could have and should have been fantastic but it fell very short of being anything better than fair.
I read it start to finish in 2 days. Admittedly, I stuck with it because I was stunned by the terrible decisions Head was making. It had nothing to do with this being a book that was capturing my attention. As a Christian myself I understand following where you feel God is leading you. I just couldn’t believe that Head allowed religion to blind him to the con artists that continually manipulated him and drove him into bankruptcy. The entire time I was reading it I kept thinking that surely he couldn’t be that blind to what was happening. He was with KoRn for years, surely he knew the importance of contracts and the risk of shady business deals. Just…damn Head. Really?!?
He was well-intentioned with his daughter, Jennea, but I was stunned at poor decision after poor decision. He left KoRn to spend more time with her then rips her out of school, continues to move her around, gets her a dog just to give it away, and continues to make terrible decisions that drive his family into bankruptcy. Over and over again I found myself wanting to like the book but feeling annoyed and frustrated. I hate to say it, but it almost succeeded in making me less of a fan. Just…really Head? I mean, every single decision was horrible.
It also irritated me that he fell back on religion as the reason for everything. I get it. I share his faith but personal accountability goes a long way and God did grant us free will. Head struck me as one of those people that discovers faith and then uses it as an excuse to justify everything in his life – good and bad. It doesn’t work like that. You have free will. You’re responsible for your behavior and decisions, even the shitty ones. You can’t claim you’re under attack for your faith when things are bad and claim that God is blessing you when things are good and use religion as a way of avoiding taking responsibility for your own life.
As a last note – this book desperately needs a good editor. I feel like it could have been a million times better if an editor went through it and cleaned it up. I received an early copy of it through NetGalley and I know it’s not a final edition but damn. I mean…I just…I’m so disappointed in this. It could have and should have been fantastic but it fell very short of being anything better than fair.
June 10, 2016
I almost feel bad for reading a book that I know is going to irritate me, but my nostalgia goggles were firmly on when I saw that Head had released another book. Even though I haven't closely followed Korn for years, I still feel compelled to pick up these books. (I am also noticing the trend of wanting to bash my head against the wall after reading said books.)
I read Head's first book back in undergrad. I remember hearing that he had left Korn, but I didn't care enough to know why. After seeing that book, I realized it was one of those born-again things. (Full disclosure: I am a lifelong atheist with no interest in finding Jesus.) I read it anyway out of pure curiosity. Both Head and Fieldy's first books had an annoying theme: "I acted like an asshole and did terrible things because I did not have God in my life." I can assure you that I have never acted the way they did, and religion has never been a part of my life. You don't need religion to be a good person. I left both books feeling irritated but also happy enough for them because whether I agree with it or not, religion brought them peace.
Then Head went back to Korn. That certainly led to some eyebrow-raising, since Head seemed happy to blame Korn for all of his pre-Jesus terrible ways. The description also mentioned the emotional issues of his daughter. I decided to read it to see what led him back to Korn and if his daughter was okay.
First, this guy's ridiculous newfound and unwavering devotion to God allowed him to become a gullible fool. He got taken by so many people because they basically told him, "I feel God in the room right now, and he wants you to invest a million dollars in my clearly fraudulent business." Come on, dude. You might be born-again, but you weren't born yesterday. Coming from the music industry, where people are routinely taken advantage of, how could you fall for that?
He ends up with lawsuits galore and people chasing him down for owed monies. Spoiler alert: He rejoins Korn shortly after filing for bankruptcy. Of course, there are several chapters of him praying to God for guidance and missing his old bandmates and feeling that he could bring Jesus to the metal world, but it is thoroughly unsurprising that his decision to rejoin the cash cow falls in line with bankruptcy.
While I am sure he meant well, his talent for poor decision-making clearly had an effect on his daughter. At least he has enough self-awareness to admit as much in the book. He moved her around, took her away from her friends, pulled her out of traditional school to have her homeschooled, etc. What gets me is that he seems quick to blame her self-mutilation and suicidal thoughts on the amount of time she spent on social media and the friends she talked to there. Umm, no. Maybe that had something to do with it, but I believe that the choices he made also had a strong hand in it. While he didn't go into specifics, he did say that Jennea was saying "inappropriate things" on Facebook. Was she cursing? Making sexual innuendos? Complaining about her father? I realize she was only 14, but none of the things are beyond the realm of normal teen things.
After reading that his daughter seemed to be doing better (though I am still suspicious of a Christian-based boarding school for girls due to the misogynistic nature of a lot of Christian teachings, but I digress...), I pretty much skimmed the rest of the book. Summed up: Head and Fieldy pray with kids at Korn shows. They apparently used the power of God to make someone's leg grow an inch longer (yeah, okay). God, God, Jesus, holy, God, etc. There was a whole lot of proselytizing right there at the end. Again, I should have expected as much, but still. Yawn.
I'd like a book from Jonathan Davis and Munky. And lord help me, I'd actually read a book from David even though his nonsensical postings on Facebook have proven that he is basically a fedora-wearing right wing asshole. Reddit personified, if you will. I just can't help myself.
I read Head's first book back in undergrad. I remember hearing that he had left Korn, but I didn't care enough to know why. After seeing that book, I realized it was one of those born-again things. (Full disclosure: I am a lifelong atheist with no interest in finding Jesus.) I read it anyway out of pure curiosity. Both Head and Fieldy's first books had an annoying theme: "I acted like an asshole and did terrible things because I did not have God in my life." I can assure you that I have never acted the way they did, and religion has never been a part of my life. You don't need religion to be a good person. I left both books feeling irritated but also happy enough for them because whether I agree with it or not, religion brought them peace.
Then Head went back to Korn. That certainly led to some eyebrow-raising, since Head seemed happy to blame Korn for all of his pre-Jesus terrible ways. The description also mentioned the emotional issues of his daughter. I decided to read it to see what led him back to Korn and if his daughter was okay.
First, this guy's ridiculous newfound and unwavering devotion to God allowed him to become a gullible fool. He got taken by so many people because they basically told him, "I feel God in the room right now, and he wants you to invest a million dollars in my clearly fraudulent business." Come on, dude. You might be born-again, but you weren't born yesterday. Coming from the music industry, where people are routinely taken advantage of, how could you fall for that?
He ends up with lawsuits galore and people chasing him down for owed monies. Spoiler alert: He rejoins Korn shortly after filing for bankruptcy. Of course, there are several chapters of him praying to God for guidance and missing his old bandmates and feeling that he could bring Jesus to the metal world, but it is thoroughly unsurprising that his decision to rejoin the cash cow falls in line with bankruptcy.
While I am sure he meant well, his talent for poor decision-making clearly had an effect on his daughter. At least he has enough self-awareness to admit as much in the book. He moved her around, took her away from her friends, pulled her out of traditional school to have her homeschooled, etc. What gets me is that he seems quick to blame her self-mutilation and suicidal thoughts on the amount of time she spent on social media and the friends she talked to there. Umm, no. Maybe that had something to do with it, but I believe that the choices he made also had a strong hand in it. While he didn't go into specifics, he did say that Jennea was saying "inappropriate things" on Facebook. Was she cursing? Making sexual innuendos? Complaining about her father? I realize she was only 14, but none of the things are beyond the realm of normal teen things.
After reading that his daughter seemed to be doing better (though I am still suspicious of a Christian-based boarding school for girls due to the misogynistic nature of a lot of Christian teachings, but I digress...), I pretty much skimmed the rest of the book. Summed up: Head and Fieldy pray with kids at Korn shows. They apparently used the power of God to make someone's leg grow an inch longer (yeah, okay). God, God, Jesus, holy, God, etc. There was a whole lot of proselytizing right there at the end. Again, I should have expected as much, but still. Yawn.
I'd like a book from Jonathan Davis and Munky. And lord help me, I'd actually read a book from David even though his nonsensical postings on Facebook have proven that he is basically a fedora-wearing right wing asshole. Reddit personified, if you will. I just can't help myself.
October 12, 2019
Probably 4.5 rounded up. Wow. Have to admit he tells a good story. He is blatantly hosest about his ups and downs in the years in between his time with Korn. A lot about his attempts to be a good father. Totally influenced my understanding of him and an appreciation of the hardcore group Korn.
May 8, 2016
“Wait…KoRn is a satanic band?” That was my initial thought when I found out that Brian Welch had left KoRn. I was confused: it was a song on ‘Issues’ that made me resolve to leave an abusive relationship; it was listening to KoRn that made me want to stay sober. Was I missing something? What happened? I would have given my eye-teeth to have been a ‘rock star’, hugely successful no less, and I couldn’t think of one reason why anyone would want to let that go.
I binge read his first three books over a weekend and what emerged was a somewhat sad, albeit familiar, story of a boy who grew up angry and with poor self-esteem, and by hard work and a stroke of good fortune started his early adulthood with fame and wealth complete with all of the privileges and indulgences that accompany it. He was given the golden ticket only to find it took him to a place that was abysmally void. But, as he was to find out, that was the ride, not the destination. He told his story honestly, and at times allowed stabs of unresolved emotion to emerge above the surface, bearing evidence that this was not an autobiography told in full; this was the beginning.
WMEWO is what happened during the in between, the life he negotiated with his new found Faith. This is how he fought to be a good father, a successful entrepreneur, continue to engage his talent as a musician, and most of all, be a happy person, and how none of that came easy.
I was overjoyed to read about his journey back to KoRn, and the way he can look at his absence not as God taking him away, but as God preparing him to go back. It’s very touching to read the stories of him praying with fans alongside his band mate and brother through Christ, Fieldy. Of course ignorant fans would mock them; it can be overwhelming for those who don’t know to stand in the presence of the Lord.
I appreciate the candor he brings to this book, and that he has retained his humor. He shared some deeply personal stories about financial mishaps and near ruin. The challenges of being a single father to his daughter were heart wrenching, but I couldn’t help but find myself thinking how lucky she is to have a father who won’t give up on her, or their relationship.
His Faith is a driving force for him that he is eager and unashamed to share. Be you Christian or not, reading about his life so far, his ability to fall, to persevere, and to rise again, is admirable.
As for me, I have learned that Brian didn’t have one reason to walk away from a ‘rock star’ life...he had a million. And why he came back was backed by a force far greater than money, fame, and possessions. I love to see life come full circle.
I binge read his first three books over a weekend and what emerged was a somewhat sad, albeit familiar, story of a boy who grew up angry and with poor self-esteem, and by hard work and a stroke of good fortune started his early adulthood with fame and wealth complete with all of the privileges and indulgences that accompany it. He was given the golden ticket only to find it took him to a place that was abysmally void. But, as he was to find out, that was the ride, not the destination. He told his story honestly, and at times allowed stabs of unresolved emotion to emerge above the surface, bearing evidence that this was not an autobiography told in full; this was the beginning.
WMEWO is what happened during the in between, the life he negotiated with his new found Faith. This is how he fought to be a good father, a successful entrepreneur, continue to engage his talent as a musician, and most of all, be a happy person, and how none of that came easy.
I was overjoyed to read about his journey back to KoRn, and the way he can look at his absence not as God taking him away, but as God preparing him to go back. It’s very touching to read the stories of him praying with fans alongside his band mate and brother through Christ, Fieldy. Of course ignorant fans would mock them; it can be overwhelming for those who don’t know to stand in the presence of the Lord.
I appreciate the candor he brings to this book, and that he has retained his humor. He shared some deeply personal stories about financial mishaps and near ruin. The challenges of being a single father to his daughter were heart wrenching, but I couldn’t help but find myself thinking how lucky she is to have a father who won’t give up on her, or their relationship.
His Faith is a driving force for him that he is eager and unashamed to share. Be you Christian or not, reading about his life so far, his ability to fall, to persevere, and to rise again, is admirable.
As for me, I have learned that Brian didn’t have one reason to walk away from a ‘rock star’ life...he had a million. And why he came back was backed by a force far greater than money, fame, and possessions. I love to see life come full circle.
June 23, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I read Brian’s first book because I have been a fan of Korn since I was a kid. That book focused on his drug addictions and the start of his conversion to christianity and leaving Korn to raise his daughter. This second book focuses on his many mistakes and obstacles since he converted and his journey back to Korn. Welch aka Head does not leave anything out. He takes about his major money issues, personal demons with anger and his daughters mental health issues. He continues to suffer from anger issues but approaches it differently. Like his first book, his story is very raw and real. I read this booking 2 settings because its like Brian is talking to you personally. I am an atheist but it was very interesting to see the benefit/ relationship that Brian had with Jesus. He acknowledges the downside to his initial conversion and how his trust in some other christians led to him being taken advantage of. However, in spite of all that he gets strength from his beliefs. My favourite part of the book was leaning how exactly Head came back to Korn. Reading about his individual reunions with Fieldy, Munky and Jon was so emotional for me. I am glad he was able to find a balance between his new beliefs and his love of music. I would recommend this book for any fans of Korn and also for new christians struggling with adjusting to their beliefs.
November 21, 2019
A great book with a strong message even though at times it was, for me being an atheist, a tad bit much religion. Nonetheless recommend for all those who want to know a bit more about Brian and his relationship with his daughter, his time after leaving Korn till getting back to the band.
June 21, 2016
So many emotions... I'm truly truly touched by this book, and I cannot write a proper review right now. It's so incredible!
February 1, 2022
Audiobook, read by the author. Head seems like a decent guy, but his book is terrible. Cringy and barely interesting. I gave up after reading about 30% of it. Just couldn't do it. Painful.
August 7, 2024
This book contains a personal story. Interesting to read. Brian's endless love for his daughter is beautifully described. He also describes his faith in a beautiful way. When people ask me if I am religious, I always say that I am still searching. Also because of the negative things I read about it. But I think Brian describes his faith beautiful, it is pure love. And that appeals to me.
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Dit boek bevat een persoonlijk verhaal. Interessant om te lezen.
De oneindige liefde van Brian voor zijn dochter is mooi omschreven.
Ook omschrijft hij zijn geloof op een mooie manier. Wanneer mensen mij vragen of ik gelovig ben, zeg ik altijd dat ik nog zoekende ben. Ook vanwege de negatieve dingen die er ik over lees. Maar hoe Brian in zijn geloof staat vind ik mooi, pure liefde. En dat trekt mij.
----
Dit boek bevat een persoonlijk verhaal. Interessant om te lezen.
De oneindige liefde van Brian voor zijn dochter is mooi omschreven.
Ook omschrijft hij zijn geloof op een mooie manier. Wanneer mensen mij vragen of ik gelovig ben, zeg ik altijd dat ik nog zoekende ben. Ook vanwege de negatieve dingen die er ik over lees. Maar hoe Brian in zijn geloof staat vind ik mooi, pure liefde. En dat trekt mij.
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July 2, 2016
KoRn is one of my favorite bands, so I had to request this when I saw it on NetGalley. I was excited when I got approved and I read this in two days. The book is about Brain "Head" Welch's decision to leave KoRn, get clean and raise his daughter. Along the way, he became a Christian, made some music, wrote books, and went through some hard times.
Unfortunately, Brian made some horrible decisions and ended up hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt. He really got swindled by someone he thought was a friend. Instead, the guy was using him for his money and got him in all kinds of legal trouble. It got so bad that he eventually had to file for bankruptcy.
I could tell how much he loves his daughter, Jennea, but he didn't always make the best decisions for her. When he was touring he decided it would better if she was enrolled in an online school. She felt alone a lot, got addicted to getting attention on the internet and started cutting herself. As a former cutter, I know how hard that can be to deal with and I can't imagine how helpless he felt. He was able to get her help, in the form of a group home for teens, and there is a letter from her at the end of the book. I thought that was nice since the reader hears (reads) a lot about her.
I was happy for Brian once things started getting better for him and I love that he's back with KoRn now. I was surprised that he said he'd forgotten how to play their bigger songs like "Falling Away From Me." I figured that after playing them thousands of times he'd just go right back to it, even if it had been eight years. He talks about how the other band members were either sober or getting sober and how nice it is that Fieldy, their bass player, is also Christian.
The books mentions religion quite a bit, especially at the end. It didn't really bother me that much until the end where it seemed overly preachy. If you're Christian or religious, that might not bother you. Brian also mentions that him and Fieldy pray with fans after their shows and at music festivals. I guess that's cool of them, but I wouldn't want to do that if I were at a metal concert.
Overall, it's a good book about a guy who's trying to get his life back on track.
Unfortunately, Brian made some horrible decisions and ended up hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt. He really got swindled by someone he thought was a friend. Instead, the guy was using him for his money and got him in all kinds of legal trouble. It got so bad that he eventually had to file for bankruptcy.
I could tell how much he loves his daughter, Jennea, but he didn't always make the best decisions for her. When he was touring he decided it would better if she was enrolled in an online school. She felt alone a lot, got addicted to getting attention on the internet and started cutting herself. As a former cutter, I know how hard that can be to deal with and I can't imagine how helpless he felt. He was able to get her help, in the form of a group home for teens, and there is a letter from her at the end of the book. I thought that was nice since the reader hears (reads) a lot about her.
I was happy for Brian once things started getting better for him and I love that he's back with KoRn now. I was surprised that he said he'd forgotten how to play their bigger songs like "Falling Away From Me." I figured that after playing them thousands of times he'd just go right back to it, even if it had been eight years. He talks about how the other band members were either sober or getting sober and how nice it is that Fieldy, their bass player, is also Christian.
The books mentions religion quite a bit, especially at the end. It didn't really bother me that much until the end where it seemed overly preachy. If you're Christian or religious, that might not bother you. Brian also mentions that him and Fieldy pray with fans after their shows and at music festivals. I guess that's cool of them, but I wouldn't want to do that if I were at a metal concert.
Overall, it's a good book about a guy who's trying to get his life back on track.
November 2, 2016
I Love how Brian writes so you can feel his emotions from pain to joy, depression to happiness, darkness to light, hopelessness to Faith !
I read this book in a day only putting it down to help with homework,answer typical questions of a ten year old, and the responsibilities of being a parent. It was so real and true and inspirational to me. I related to almost every paragraph. You don't have to be a musician to feel the beat and become engulfed in the verses and choruses that rise and fall from haunting deep base melancholy lows to the victorious hard and heavy crunching overtones of metallic joy. I didn't just read this book ~ I experienced it as Brian's writing brought me into the room with him and Jennea as the struggled to find the answers to life's challenges together. My hopes are renewed my vision for tomorrow is clearer and i now hunger to develop a daily conversation with God and my family. After reading the final page I had to walk outside under the cold November star lit sky and pray for the first time in months. "With eyes wide open" will entertain you encourage you inspire you and challenge you.
I read this book in a day only putting it down to help with homework,answer typical questions of a ten year old, and the responsibilities of being a parent. It was so real and true and inspirational to me. I related to almost every paragraph. You don't have to be a musician to feel the beat and become engulfed in the verses and choruses that rise and fall from haunting deep base melancholy lows to the victorious hard and heavy crunching overtones of metallic joy. I didn't just read this book ~ I experienced it as Brian's writing brought me into the room with him and Jennea as the struggled to find the answers to life's challenges together. My hopes are renewed my vision for tomorrow is clearer and i now hunger to develop a daily conversation with God and my family. After reading the final page I had to walk outside under the cold November star lit sky and pray for the first time in months. "With eyes wide open" will entertain you encourage you inspire you and challenge you.
July 10, 2016
This is Brian “Head” Welch story after he left Korn which is a heavy metal rock band. He turned his life over to Christ and along the way he made mistakes. Which he chronicles the people that he trusted but does not fault them but looks at himself for wanting to do the right thing but not looking at the whole person even though there were signs for him to see? He moves on to how he stayed in music and working towards a christian album and how once those things started to work out he was back on the road and he still needed to spend time with his daughter which is the main reason why he changed his life to begin with. He goes into her problems and she gives a good account at the end of the book that any young girl going through cutting should read and look to get help. He then goes into his journey back to Korn and back to making a record doing that partly here in Bakersfield and in L.A. a very good book and I am glad that he added his daughters’ part to the book. A very good read. I got this book from netgalley. I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
May 27, 2025
Nie do przebrnięcia. Krindżowe tlumaczenie, polski audiobook czytany zbyt teatralnie, a co do treści to mimo calej mojej sympatii do muzyki Korn, nie jestem po prost w stanie strawic tematyki nagłego oświecenia glownego bohatera, szczególnie ze wydaje sie powierzchowne i naiwne. Przebrnęłam przez 1/5 i się poddałam.
January 23, 2025
I knew Brian “Head” Welch had become a Christian while a member of the band, KoRn, but I hadn’t known any particulars. This book takes you through the time when he was saved then through raising his daughter, Jennea, as a single parent, then on to making a lot of dumb business deals.
He had left KoRn and fronted his own band for 8 years before returning to KoRn. This allowed him to be in a unique position to touch hearts for the Lord in people in unlikely places.
A string of hard luck and difficult times caused him to question his faith. But he never gave up. The end of the book reads more smoothly than the previous portion. And you can tell Brian had achieved a sense of peacefulness and being comfortable in his relationship with the Lord.
He had left KoRn and fronted his own band for 8 years before returning to KoRn. This allowed him to be in a unique position to touch hearts for the Lord in people in unlikely places.
A string of hard luck and difficult times caused him to question his faith. But he never gave up. The end of the book reads more smoothly than the previous portion. And you can tell Brian had achieved a sense of peacefulness and being comfortable in his relationship with the Lord.
March 20, 2017
I've never been a fan of KoRn, but the cover of With My Eyes Wide Open caught my attention. I'm always into hearing and reading about individuals who have been impacted by the life changing power of Jesus Christ though, so I wanted to read it. This book isn't a holier than thou spiritual book, but a story about a man with his struggles and failures. In the midst of all the chaos in his life during the past 10 years, Brian discovered a very real a personal peace and he wants to share that with others. God has done and will continue to do amazing things in Brian Welch, and in his daughter Jennea. I'm so glad he put his story onto paper. Thank you, Netgalley, for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
January 15, 2025
Really good. Wished we could hear a little more from his daughter.
August 20, 2025
Another really good read, I found this one to be a better book than his first - I loved the stories of his early experiences in Korn and music industry, and tiny details about other musicians i admire (plus some shameful revelations) and initially that's why I was drawn to buy his books, but everything afterwards was just a crazy read and to see him climb out of the holes he ended up in was great.
Towards the end of the first book, the new obsession he found in God was a bit over the top for me but thankfully, in the second book, he was aware of himself taking it too far and explained this while still sharing his love for God.
Less music industry horrors in book 2, but everything else falling apart was equally as awful. The redemption he went through and the stories shared of him reconnecting with his Korn brothers was so satisfying and it's amazing to read that Sonny from P.O.D was a huge part in helping this happen (another band I love)
Awesome stuff. What a strong dude to go through all of this and still be a brilliant, single father. Very inspiring! (not a bad guitarist either, I guess)
Towards the end of the first book, the new obsession he found in God was a bit over the top for me but thankfully, in the second book, he was aware of himself taking it too far and explained this while still sharing his love for God.
Less music industry horrors in book 2, but everything else falling apart was equally as awful. The redemption he went through and the stories shared of him reconnecting with his Korn brothers was so satisfying and it's amazing to read that Sonny from P.O.D was a huge part in helping this happen (another band I love)
Awesome stuff. What a strong dude to go through all of this and still be a brilliant, single father. Very inspiring! (not a bad guitarist either, I guess)
March 23, 2023
Welch gives you an open, honest account of all the struggles he has been through. He accepted Jesus into his life, and he still shows that doesn't mean everything is always sunshine and rainbows all the time. Faith and trust take you through the storms.
September 14, 2019
Amazing story of transformation, trials and deliverance!
May 3, 2017
This was an inspirational account of Brian Head Welch and his life journey to Christ. I would definitely read more.
July 13, 2016
Brian 'Head' Welch's newest release With Eyes Wide Open kept me captivated for fourteen hours. The time it took me to read his book from cover to cover. My youngest daughter is the Korn fan. I read for the spiritual journey. I was eager to learn about Brian's walk with Christ and was astounded by what He already knew. He spoke like a seasoned christian putting away any doubts about His submitting everything over to the Lord. Most new christian's are naive thinking that once they promise to serve God, their lives will be perfect. Welch knew better that God doesn't promise us a rose garden but He does promise to be there to get through the rough spots. The author is very humble and sincere in doing things God's way and his story is a testimony of how God works during our difficult times to bring about a brighter end for us.
This book should definitely prove why we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. I am grateful that the author shared his experiences with us which everyone can learn from. Book Look Bloggers gave me the opportunity to read in exchange for my honest opinions.
This book should definitely prove why we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. I am grateful that the author shared his experiences with us which everyone can learn from. Book Look Bloggers gave me the opportunity to read in exchange for my honest opinions.
January 22, 2024
As a lover of books and pure, raw emotion with it - I truly believe this is one of those every Christian should read. If you’re easy to judge on what the perfect Christian should look and act like - please read! If you are doubting your faith because it seems like Christians struggle more than anyone else - please read! If you believe that God and Christianity should stay in church and associate music (especially metal) with everything wrong and bad - PLEASE READ! I recommend this to anyone struggling with their faith, dealing with depression, addiction or even judgement. God is for everyone and there is no universal image of what a believer should look like. He doesn’t care about what you’ve done or the way you speak, He just wants your heart. I truly believe that it is exactly there where most people believe a Christian should not be, where God wants and need us to show love. And after just a little over 200 pages, I feel even more so!! If there is going to be one time in your life where you’re going on my word, let that be now. Read this book!! It will open your eyes!! 🖤
September 2, 2017
I enjoyed this book so much because of Brian's honesty about the ups and downs he faced after becoming a Christian. He's so genuine and humble. I did not want this book to be over. It's mostly about his life after deciding to leave KoRn to focus on being a dad, which means there's a lot in here about his relationship with his only child, Jennea. It starts in 2005 and leads up to around 2016 or so, I believe. There's so much power here in what God can do in someone's life who's willing to let Him. I cried many times. Wonderful job, Brian. I look forward to reading your other books.
P.S. thank you for including a photo album at the end. I loved seeing pictures taken during some of the seasons of life you discuss in the book.
P.S. thank you for including a photo album at the end. I loved seeing pictures taken during some of the seasons of life you discuss in the book.
May 28, 2016
This must have been brutal for him to write. He puts it all out there - his failures with family, friends, and finances. He explores his relationship with his daughter Jennea, who struggles with her own self worth; and with his former KoRn bandmembers, each of whom has his own struggles with sobriety.
Brian gets "preachy" near the end, but you know what? His love and passion for his readers and fans is what motivates that. How much hatred for others would he have to have that he would have such news and not share it? He "preaches" because that's his calling - his mission. And unlike many Christians, he actually OBEYS God.
Great job, Brian. You rock.
Brian gets "preachy" near the end, but you know what? His love and passion for his readers and fans is what motivates that. How much hatred for others would he have to have that he would have such news and not share it? He "preaches" because that's his calling - his mission. And unlike many Christians, he actually OBEYS God.
Great job, Brian. You rock.
October 11, 2016
This was a pretty good book and very insightful. Head is the guitar player for the band Korn. He has had a full and interesting life. Lots of highs and lows. The details of his spiritual side and coming to know God, as well as how it impacts his life on a daily basis are reflected here. Head writes in a truthful and raw manner, which I find refreshing. He has had a lengthy battle being addicted to meth, and lots of decisions, including continuing to stay amongst the living, which has allowed him to become a father to his children. This book was a quick but deep read, almost as if someone's life was just poured out across the pages. Very good book.
Danny
Danny
October 18, 2016
The book to accompany Brian's first release 'Save Me From Myself', 'With My Eyes Wide Open' is an even better read than the debut.
Reading about his return to Korn, and the thoughts of his bandmates are intriguing, and the struggles Brian has with Jennea (his daughter) have you rooting for both of them by the end.
A rock hero of mine, I am so happy Brian went back to Korn, and I am even more happy that he is now in the best condition of his life and he is simply happy.
Read 'Save Me From Myself' first, but this book is definitely better in my opinion.
Reading about his return to Korn, and the thoughts of his bandmates are intriguing, and the struggles Brian has with Jennea (his daughter) have you rooting for both of them by the end.
A rock hero of mine, I am so happy Brian went back to Korn, and I am even more happy that he is now in the best condition of his life and he is simply happy.
Read 'Save Me From Myself' first, but this book is definitely better in my opinion.
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