Shinedown to perform at SNHU Arena on July 20
Shinedown, a hard-rock band originating from Jacksonville, Florida, was founded in 2001 by Brent Smith, a musician with a diverse musical background encompassing various genres such as rock and soul. After Brent Smith’s previous band Dreve was dropped by Atlantic Records, the label extended a development deal to him to spearhead a new project. Initially hesitant, Smith eventually formed Shinedown with new members, leading to the formation of a cohesive and cooperative band.
Over the years, Shinedown has established a remarkable track record in the realm of rock music, achieving a “Billboard” magazine Mainstream Rock record for the most number-one singles by any artist, surpassing the 20 mark. Their 2022 album “Planet Zero” made a significant impact, reaching No. 5 in the Billboard Top 200 chart and claiming the top spot on six additional charts. With the release of their eighth album “EI8HT,” Shinedown continued their momentum, producing hit singles like “Dance, Kid, Dance,” “Killing Fields,” and “Searchlight” – all reaching No. 1 on various radio charts.
Despite their success, Brent Smith reveals that he grapples with stage fright before each performance. He acknowledges that this nervousness is integral to his connection with his craft, serving as a reminder of his dedication to his music career. Despite appearing composed on the surface, Smith admits to being a bundle of nerves before stepping on stage, although he finds solace once he commences the set list.
Shinedown is known for curating diverse concert lineups, blending genres and styles for an eclectic experience. Hosting bands like Spiritbox and Whiskey Myers, who are established in different genres, the band embraces musical diversity and experimentation. Refusing to conform to conventional radio norms, Shinedown’s music transcends multiple genres, reflecting their belief in the universality of music.
In translating their intricate studio sound to live performances, Shinedown navigates the challenge of adapting dense guitar layering from the studio to a live setting, with Zach Myers as the sole guitarist during performances. Eric Bass, the band’s bassist, plays a pivotal role in the studio as a producer, mixer, and engineer, facilitating the seamless transition from studio recordings to live renditions. Through collaboration and experimentation, Shinedown manages to retain the essence of their studio recordings in the electrifying atmosphere of their live shows.
Crafting an 18-track album in an era of diminishing attention spans was a deliberate choice for Shinedown. Embracing the challenge of sustaining listener engagement over an extended record, the band aimed to create a cohesive and immersive musical journey that defied conventional trends. By prioritizing artistic integrity and creative exploration, Shinedown aimed to provide audiences with a profound and enduring musical experience.