The Sound of Shinedown: Barry Kerch & Eric Bass on Reinvention, Resilience & the Future

This week, I’m revisiting two of the year’s biggest interviews with Shinedown’s Barry Kerch and Eric Bass — offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of modern rock’s most enduring and innovative bands.

First, Barry Kerch opens up about Shinedown’s evolving sound over the past two decades, their approach to crafting unforgettable live setlists, and the stories behind the band’s 2025 singles “Dance, Kid, Dance” and “Three Six Five.” He also shares insight into the emotional power of “A Symptom of Being Human,” Shinedown’s commitment to philanthropy, and what fans can expect from Shinedown 8, set for release in 2026.

Then, Eric Bass takes us inside his creative world — from joining Shinedown during The Sound of Madness era to producing the band’s concept albums Attention Attention and Planet Zero. He also dives into his debut solo concept album I Had A Name, its companion graphic novel, and the stories behind songs like “Mind Control,” “Goodnight Goodnight,” and “Azalia.”

Eric also revisits Shinedown’s cover of Carole King’s “I Feel the Earth Move” from The Warner Sound Live Room sessions and the Attention Attention B-side “ANWTD (A New Way To Die).” Plus, in a never-before-heard segment, he reflects on touring with Iron Maiden and KISS, and his first meeting with Wolfgang Van Halen (Mammoth WVH).

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering their music for the first time, this exclusive double-feature interview pulls back the curtain on the passion, process, and creativity driving one of hard rock’s most powerful and resilient acts.

🎙️ Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform—and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to help more rock fans find the show! Then, scroll down to hear all of the songs discussed in this episode! 👇