Chino: The Nu Metal and Alternative Rock Vocalist

Chino Moreno is the distinctive lead vocalist and frontman for the multi-platinum alternative metal band Deftones. Hailing from Sacramento, California, his career is defined by the landmark success of the Deftones' 2000 album White Pony, which transformed the band from cult favorites into mainstream stars and earned a Grammy Award.

Early career

Born in 1973, Camillo "Chino" Wong Moreno grew up in Sacramento and formed Deftones with guitarist Stephen Carpenter in 1988. The band's raw, aggressive fusion of metal, punk, and hip-hop was captured on their 1995 debut Adrenaline, released on Madonna's Maverick Records, which built a dedicated underground following through relentless touring.

Breakthrough

The band's commercial and critical breakthrough arrived in 2000 with their third studio album, White Pony. Released by Maverick, the album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and was later certified Platinum by the RIAA, propelled by the hit single "Change (In the House of Flies)" and its Grammy-winning track "Elite."

Key tracks

Change (In the House of Flies) — This atmospheric single from White Pony became the band's first major alternative radio hit and a defining track of the era.

My Own Summer (Shove It) — The lead single from 1997's Around the Fur established the band's heavier sound on rock radio and remains a live staple.

Digital Bath — A standout from White Pony that showcases Moreno's shift towards more melodic and ethereal vocal styles.

Minerva — The lead single from 2003's self-titled album highlighted the band's expansive, cinematic soundscapes.

Rocket Skates — This crushing 2010 single marked a powerful return to form on the acclaimed album Diamond Eyes.

Beyond Deftones, Moreno has pursued notable side projects, including the electronic-infused Team Sleep and the more aggressive post-punk outfit Crosses. His collaborations are extensive, featuring work with artists like Mike Shinoda on the track "Rocketskates" remix, Korn, and Lamb of God. The Deftones' catalog, including later albums like Koi No Yokan, has sustained their influence, with each release consistently debuting in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart.

Fans of Chino Moreno's dynamic vocal range—which shifts from haunting whispers to visceral screams—and his band's textured, atmospheric metal should also explore Tool. Both bands share a commitment to complex, evolving song structures and artistic depth. The melodic aggression of Chevelle offers a more direct but equally compelling take on alternative metal. For the genre-blending spirit, listen to Linkin Park, who similarly fused heavy guitars with electronic elements. The moody, atmospheric rock of Smashing Pumpkins also serves as a clear influence on Moreno's more melodic pursuits.

Chino Moreno's music with Deftones and his various projects maintains a constant presence on modern rock and alternative rock radio stations. His distinctive voice and the band's innovative sound are fixtures on playlists for active rock FM stations and online alternative radio streams that champion heavy yet experimental music.

The music of Chino Moreno and Deftones is regularly featured on radio stations available through our website. Listeners can discover his iconic catalog and latest releases by tuning into the independent music radio stations and curated rock channels on onairium.com.