Brent Smith, the frontman of Shinedown, recently faced a profound personal loss with the passing of his mother, Patricia Ann Smith, on January 19 at the age of 72. In an emotional moment shared during a Zoom interview from a midtown Manhattan hotel room, Smith reflected on his mother’s lasting influence, stating, “I remember my mother putting her hands on my hands and looking me in the eyes just saying, ‘I aim for you to know that I love you and there’s no way that I could ever measure it, because my love for you is forever.’”
As he navigates this difficult time, Smith is too gearing up for a busy promotional period. Shinedown is set to launch their world tour, named “Dance Kid Dance Act II,” in May, alongside the release of their new album, “EI8HT,” due out on May 29. Smith expressed his desire to honor his mother’s memory through his work, emphasizing, “I just really, really want to make her proud.” He acknowledged the challenges of balancing personal grief with the demands of a 20-plus-year career in music.
Smith, now 48, has been actively promoting the upcoming album, discussing the 18 tracks recorded over the past year and a half. The album features recent hits like “Searchlight,” “Three Six Five,” and “Dance, Kid Dance,” and showcases a mix of hard rock anthems and softer ballads. He articulated the impact of Shinedown’s music on fans, stating that success to him is defined by the lives they have touched.
Shinedown’s New Album EI8HT
Smith conveyed his appreciation for the supportive fanbase, suggesting that the pastel bouquet on the cover of “EI8HT” symbolizes the gratitude Shinedown has for its audience. “That’s us giving the audience the flowers for sticking with us, for believing in us, and allowing us to be ourselves,” he noted.
The album’s lead single, “Safe and Sound,” is described by Smith as an “anthemic call to arms,” addressing themes of resilience. He reassured fans that despite any doubts about the band’s ability to still rock out, he is confident in their sound. “I know certain people are like, ‘Can they still rock out?’ And I’m like, ‘Yeah,’” he stated.
Dealing with Loss and Industry Changes
Alongside personal losses, including the recent death of his friend and fellow musician Brad Arnold, Smith acknowledged the broader challenges faced by the music community. He emphasized that the making of “EI8HT” reflects the preciousness of life and time, stating, “We all have a date with destiny.”
In light of recent controversies surrounding their participation in Kid Rock’s festival, Smith and his bandmates felt compelled to step back amidst rising tensions within their fanbase. He expressed the need for unity, stating, “It says the ‘United States of America’ – united. And a lot of people right now don’t feel united.”
Smith’s upbringing instilled in him the values of acceptance and inclusivity. He shared insights into his views on American politics, advocating for collaboration between differing political ideologies. His suggestion of having both a Republican and Democrat in the Oval Office aims to bridge divides and bring about unity.
Looking Ahead: Tours and Future Releases
As Shinedown prepares for their extensive North American tour, Smith reassured fans that they will still have ample opportunities to witness them live. The tour kicks off on May 13 in Green Bay, WI, and includes dates across the continent through the summer.
Smith’s reflections during this tumultuous time highlight the emotional depth of “EI8HT.” He emphasized the duality of life’s experiences, stating, “The whole definition of Shinedown is sometimes you shine, and sometimes you’re down. There’s a yin and a yang.” This sentiment is echoed throughout the album, which navigates themes of both struggle and triumph.
as Shinedown embarks on this new chapter with “EI8HT,” fans can expect a rich emotional landscape that resonates with their own experiences. The upcoming world tour promises to be a celebration of resilience and the band’s enduring connection with their audience. Comments and shares are encouraged as fans and newcomers alike engage with Shinedown’s journey.
