Shinedown Withdraws from Rock the Country Festival
Shinedown has officially withdrawn from the 2026 Rock the Country festival, specifically the Anderson, South Carolina date. This decision comes shortly after their drummer, Barry Kerch, criticized rapper Ludacris for his own withdrawal from the festival.
Shinedown Announces Their Exit
The rock band shared their reasoning on Instagram, emphasizing their commitment to unity through music. They stated, “Shinedown is everyone’s band,” and reiterated their goal to unite audiences rather than create division. They acknowledged that their decision might lead to differing opinions but expressed gratitude to their fans for their support.
Rock the Country Festival Details
- The festival will travel to eight cities in the United States.
- It features a diverse lineup of artists from rock, country, and even some hip-hop genres.
- Artists slated to perform include Creed, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Brooks & Dunn.
- Other notable names include Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, and Jelly Roll.
Responses to Withdrawals
Ludacris’s exit from the festival was described as a booking “mix-up,” leading to speculation about the event’s organization. Kerch reacted in a podcast episode, expressing indifference to the political implications associated with Kid Rock’s festival. He remarked on Ludacris’s departure, labeling it as “cowardly” for not standing firm.
Continuing Rock and Metal Tours
Despite these controversies, the 2026 music scene is rich with significant rock and metal tours. Major acts such as Metallica, Iron Maiden, and My Chemical Romance are confirmed to tour this year, appealing to a wide array of rock enthusiasts.
Shinedown’s exit from the Rock the Country festival highlights the complexities musicians face in balancing personal beliefs with public performances. As the festival draws nearer, fans will eagerly await updates on the lineup changes and the ongoing responses from artists involved.
