Shinedown headlines Welcome to Rockville with Florida homecoming
Shinedown, a band with Jacksonville roots, is set to perform at the upcoming Welcome to Rockville music fest in Daytona Beach. As a featured act in the past, including performances at Planetfest and the 2012 Rockville in Jacksonville, the band is no stranger to the festival scene. Drummer Barry Kerch, who still resides in Jacksonville, expressed excitement about their upcoming main stage headlining set on May 15, sharing his positive experiences from previous performances.
Shinedown previously faced disappointment at Rockville in 2022 when their set was cut short due to severe weather. Despite the setback, the band remains resilient and grateful for their success in the music industry. Their latest single, “Dance, Kid, Dance,” recently reached the top of Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart for the 20th time, showcasing their consistent ability to produce chart-topping hits. Kerch emphasized the band’s dedication to excellence and continuous improvement, crediting their loyal fans for their ongoing support.
The band’s cohesive lineup, consisting of Kerch, lead singer Brent Smith, guitarist Zach Myers, and bassist Eric Bass, has remained unchanged for almost two decades. Kerch attributes their longevity to open communication and mutual respect among members, despite occasional disagreements. With new singles like “Dance, Kid, Dance” and “Three Six Five” hinting at an upcoming album, Shinedown is already looking ahead to their next project while engaged in a rigorous touring schedule.
Reflecting on his journey from a small-town kid in Florida to a successful musician, Kerch shared his unexpected transition from studying anthropology to pursuing a career in rock music. Meeting Smith and joining the band marked a turning point in his life, leading to the creation of their hit song “45” from the album “Leave a Whisper.” Kerch’s passion for music and dedication to Shinedown’s growth have been integral to the band’s continued success.
As Shinedown prepares for their performance at Welcome to Rockville, Kerch expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event and emphasized the band’s commitment to delivering a high-energy show for their fans. Despite the challenges they faced in the past, Shinedown remains focused on their music and eager to share their latest creations with audiences worldwide. Their upcoming album, set to be released in the near future, is a testament to the band’s unwavering work ethic and passion for their craft.