Shaddix is the founding member of Papa Roach. He formed the band with former drummer Dave Buckner, bassist Will James, and guitarist Ben Luther, in 1993. Luther was replaced by current guitarist Jerry Horton, and by 1996 Tobin Esperance had replaced Will James following his departure. In 2007 Dave Buckner's role was filled by Tony Palermo, leaving Jacoby as the only original member in the band. The band's name Papa Roach, derives from Shaddix' step-grandfather, Howard William Roatch, who went by the nickname "Papa Roach". Howard died by suicide in 2006 following a diagnosis of an unspecified form of advanced-stage cancer. The song "Roses on My Grave" was written in his memory. Before releasing their major label debut album Infest, Papa Roach recorded and published an EP in 1994 entitled 'Potatoes For Christmas'. In 1997, their first full-length album, entitled Old Friends from Young Years, was released.