90s rock-metal band debuts first song with new lead singer: ‘It’s magic’
A well-known rock-metal band is starting a new chapter. FireHouse has unveiled a fresh track, “Mighty Fine Lady,” on their official website. This release marks the group’s debut single featuring their new lead vocalist Nate Peck, who gained fame in 2023 after securing a golden ticket on “American Idol” season 21.
Following the passing of original FireHouse co-founder and lead singer C.J. Snare at the age of 64 last year, Peck stepped in. Snare battled stage 4 colon cancer in 2020 and went through several abdominal surgeries, and ultimately, reports indicated that he passed away due to cardiac arrest. Guitarist Bill Leverty shared with The Hair Metal Guru that even after facing several health challenges, Snare displayed remarkable resilience by returning to the stage merely six weeks after two surgeries in 2021. However, his health took another downturn two years later. When Leverty underwent his third surgery in 2023, guitarist Robby Lochner of Jack Russell’s Great White pointed towards Peck following his performance on “Idol.”
“I checked out Nate’s Instagram, and he has quite a talent singing songs from some of the greatest vocalists ever, in my opinion. And he does it so effortlessly,” Leverty reflected on finding Peck. While Peck was familiar with FireHouse’s iconic song “Love of a Lifetime” from 1990, he needed to familiarize himself with the band’s entire catalog. Leverty shared their songs with Peck, and their first joint performance took place at the New England Rock Fest in 2023.
Peck’s nerves didn’t deter him as he delivered a flawless performance. Leverty even shared videos of Peck’s performance with Snare, who was impressed by Peck’s talent. The plan was initially for Snare to rejoin the band in the past year, considering a potential concert in May alongside Warrant for the Disabled Persons Action Organization (DPAO) in Watertown. However, as Snare and Peck discussed splitting vocal responsibilities, it became evident that Peck was the perfect fit as FireHouse’s new lead vocalist.
Leverty, who alongside Snare co-founded FireHouse in the mid-1980s, explained that the creation of “Mighty Fine Lady” began when Peck requested a riff idea. Peck crafted a verse around it, and Leverty expanded on the music, eventually culminating in the chorus that became their latest track.
Between 1990 and 2011, FireHouse launched eight albums, boasting glam metal hits such as “I Live My Life for You,” “Don’t Treat Me Bad,” and “When I Look Into Your Eyes.” Their success culminated in winning the Favorite Heavy Metal/Hard Rock New Artist honor at the 1992 American Music Awards, triumphing over the likes of Nirvana and Alice in Chains.
At present, the new single “Mighty Fine Lady” is exclusive to the band’s website but will soon be accessible on various music streaming platforms. Leverty has expressed the band’s enthusiasm to write and record more music with Peck, potentially culminating in FireHouse’s first album release in nearly 15 years. Reflecting on Peck’s vocal prowess reminiscent of Snare’s signature style, Leverty shared his delight with the final product, describing it as “magic.” The band considers themselves privileged to collaborate with Peck, emphasizing their satisfaction with how everything has transpired.