Shinedown’s success is fueled by their willingness to step out of their comfort zone

Over two decades ago, singer Brent Smith embarked on a musical journey that led him to form the successful rock band Shinedown. Starting as Dreve in 2001 with bandmate Barry Kerch, Shinedown has become a powerhouse in the rock music scene, releasing seven studio albums with an eighth on the horizon. The band has achieved an impressive feat of 20 singles reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and 32 in the Top 5, solidifying their status as arena headliners with or without a new album to promote.

While currently on the Dance, Kid, Dance Tour, Shinedown has been introducing new songs and shaking up their setlists every night. Drummer Barry Kerch shared that this approach is a deliberate effort to keep things fresh and challenging for the band. Rather than sticking to a comfortable routine, Shinedown aims to push boundaries, explore new sounds, and surprise their audiences, embracing the discomfort that comes with change.

Kerch emphasized the band’s commitment to innovation and avoiding complacency in their music. Shinedown thrives on reinventing themselves and experimenting with different musical styles and themes, showcasing their versatility and creativity. This willingness to step out of their comfort zone has kept the band dynamic and engaging for both themselves and their fans.

Reflecting on the band’s evolution over the years, Kerch acknowledged that Shinedown has always strived to push boundaries and explore new territories in their music. While the band continues to learn and grow, their adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks have become hallmarks of their sound and approach to creating music.

Shinedown’s latest single, “Dance, Kid, Dance,” marks their 20th No. 1 rock chart single, blending anthemic rock elements with deeper lyrical themes. The band is also working on new music for a forthcoming album, aiming for a late winter/early spring release. Unlike their recent concept albums, the new record will be a collection of songs, showcasing Shinedown’s versatility and range.

Looking ahead, Kerch expressed gratitude for the band’s journey and the challenges they’ve overcome, including frontman Brent Smith’s sobriety. As Shinedown continues to push boundaries and explore new musical horizons, their focus remains on creating authentic and meaningful music that resonates with their dedicated fan base.