Godsmack, a hard rock and heavy metal band originally from Lawrence, Massachusetts, is one of the most successful bands of the era. Originally formed in 1995, the group has been active and touring for 3 decades, gaining popularity across multiple generations of music fans. To hold that much longevity in the music industry is a testament to their staying power and ability to connect with audiences. Unfortunately, the band is going to have to work at rebuilding, as they recently lost some key members of the group.
History of Godsmack
Since 1995, Godsmack has been producing hit music that has drawn them a massive following. The rock band averages around 5 million monthly listeners on Spotify and an additional 1.8 million on Last FM. The band has been a commercial success as well, having sold over 19 million albums worldwide. Their 1998 album GODSMACK sold over 4 million albums alone.
The group has produced three number-one albums in a row on the Billboard Top 200, including Faceless, IV, and The Oracle. They have also released 8 different number-one tracks on mainstream rock radio. The band has been nominated for four Grammy awards and also won the Billboard Rock Group of the Year in 2001. The decorated group has released nine studio albums along with various other pieces of media.
Given the lengthy discography of Godsmack, it is hard to choose just a few highlights. “I Stand Alone” from the album Faceless is currently their most streamed song, with “Bulletproof” and “Awake” finishing second and third, from the albums When Legends Rise and Awake, respectively. Their most recent studio album, Lighting Up the Sky, released in 2023. It is the last music the band has released as a group.
Godsmack Is Going To Be Changing
Unfortunately, Lighting Up The Sky will be the last album the group produces as original members of the band. Earlier in the band’s history, they had lost two members (Tommy Stewart and Joe D’Arco). However, over the last two decades, the band has stayed entirely intact, something that is uncommon in that genre of the music industry. The iconic band will have to deal with the challenge now, though, as their drummer, Shannon Larkin, and guitarist, Tony Rombola, are stepping away.
Both members cite the stress that comes from touring as their reason for departing the group. Losing both the guitarist and drummer is a major challenge and setback for the group. Until they find an adequate replacement, it will be hard for them to produce any music. That said, if any group can find solid replacements and continue to succeed in the industry, it is Godsmack. The group was dealt a big blow, and now, they will have to rise back up.
