Michael Gordon "Mick" Thomson (born November 3, 1973), is an American heavy metal musician. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, he is best known as the lead guitarist in the metal band Slipknot, in which he is designated #7. Thomson originally met founding Slipknot members Anders Colsefni, Donnie Steele and Paul Gray through their mutual involvement in death metal band Body Pit, and later replaced Craig Jones in the group in 1996. Following the departure of Joey Jordison in 2013, Thomson is now the third longest-serving member of Slipknot.
Mick Thomson grew up having a "fascination with death metal bands", including Morbid Angel, although he has also named The Beatles as one of his major musical influences. He began his career playing guitar in a number of local bands in his hometown of Des Moines, Iowa, most notably death metal outfit Body Pit, formed in 1993. Original Slipknot members Anders Colsefni (vocals), Donnie Steele (guitar) and Paul Gray (bass) were all fellow members of Body Pit during this period. In addition to performing in the band, Thomson gave guitar lessons to local students at Ye Olde Guitar Shop on 70th Street in Des Moines.