# C.J. Pierce on how Bodies became a mosh pit anthem

> How Drowning Pool's Bodies turned crowdsurfing into a global phenomenon
- Title: C.J. Pierce on how Bodies became a mosh pit anthem | Shortify
- Summary: How Drowning Pool's Bodies turned crowdsurfing into a global phenomenon Bodies is a mosh pit anthem that became a global phenomenon through its energetic…
- Keywords: c.j. pierce, drowning pool, bodies, mosh pit, metal, nu metal, nfl, seahawks, seattle, guitar, rock, live performance
- Source: Guitar World — https://guitarworld.com/artists/guitarists/c-j-pierce-drowning-pool-bodies
- Published: 2026-09-28T00:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: c.j. pierce, drowning pool, bodies, mosh pit, metal, nu metal, nfl, seahawks, seattle, guitar, rock, live performance
## Bodies origin story
C.J. Pierce wrote the iconic riff blending New Orleans funk with heavy metal influences

> I grew up in New Orleans, surrounded by jazz and funk
## The song's evolution
The band added Pantera influence and a heavier sound after moving to Dallas

> When we started, Angel Dust was an album every single member loved
## Live performance impact
Bodies became an anthem for rock shows with massive crowd reactions

> The pit becomes like a tornado
## Crowdsurfing incidents
Fans threw out prosthetic legs and wheelchairs during live shows

> One time someone was crowdsurfing and threw out their prosthetic leg for me to sign
## Tuning and recording
The song was recorded in drop C tuning for thicker low-end sound

> The song is in drop C. Maybe it wouldn't have sounded as big in standard or regular drop D
## Band's perspective
The band clarifies Bodies is about mosh pits, not violence or torture

> It's about being in the pit of a rock show and helping your friends get back up
## Early success
Bodies became a hit after playing at Ozzfest 2001 and getting MTV exposure

> We were the last band added to Ozzfest 2001, going on stage at 10am every morning
## Longevity
The song has been a live staple for 25 years with continued touring

> It's been a rollercoaster ride. To get to that level and still be touring 25 years later is crazy
## Music's impact
Bodies has been used in movies, wrestling events, and soundtracks

> I've heard it in movies and on soundtracks
## Band's legacy
The song remains a cultural touchstone for metal fans worldwide

> It takes hours to come back down every night
## Key takeaway

Bodies is a mosh pit anthem that became a global phenomenon through its energetic live performances