Former Dream Theater drummer Mike Mangini has joined Godsmack. He made his live debut with the band on Friday as they kicked off their “The Rise of Rock” tour alongside Stone Temple Pilots and Dorothy. Frontman Sully Erna welcomed Mangini on Instagram, saying, “Ladies & Gentlemen, the one and only Mike M’Fkn Mangini! S*’s about to get real.”
Mangini replaces Wade Murff, who is currently drumming for Black Veil Brides on their European tour. Murff stepped in for Christian “CC” Coma, who had to leave the tour for personal reasons. Murff had previously taken over for Will Hunt of Evanescence after longtime drummer Shannon Larkin retired in 2024.
Mangini was with Dream Theater from 2010 to 2023, filling in for original drummer Mike Portnoy during his absence. Fans are excited to see what Mangini will bring to Godsmack’s sound.
