Shinedown is one of those bands that just keeps going strong. In September 2025, they scored their 23rd No. 1 single on the active rock chart, marking their third No. 1 hit of the year. It’s impressive how they continue to dominate the charts even after all these years. The band formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 2001 when singer Brent Smith put it together after his previous band, Dreve, disbanded.
While the lineup has changed over time, Brent Smith has been the constant force behind the band. Their signature post-grunge sound remains intact. Reflecting on their successful 2007 album, *The Sound of Madness*, Smith expressed his desire to leave a lasting legacy. He wanted the album to be remembered as something important.
Now, with their latest hit “Killing Fields,” Shinedown is certainly making their mark. Before performing the song, Smith connected with the audience, asking those who have lost someone to raise their hands. The response was overwhelming, creating a powerful moment that went viral.
Even beyond their hits, Shinedown has some underrated tracks worth checking out.
“In Memory” is from their debut album *Leave a Whisper*, released in 2003. Smith mentioned that it was one of the last songs written for the album, and it deserves more recognition.
“Crying Out” is another gem from the same album. It’s a beautiful, radio-friendly song that never got the chance it deserved on the airwaves. Smith revealed that it was almost released as a single, which is a shame because it could have been a big hit.
Shinedown continues to impress, and their music is definitely worth exploring.
