Home / Arts and Entertainment / Shinedown Fans Call Band "Cowards" Over Festival Exit
Shinedown Fans Call Band "Cowards" Over Festival Exit
18 Feb
Summary
- Shinedown exited the Rock the Country festival citing division concerns.
- Fans reacted negatively, labeling the band as 'cowards' and 'traitors'.
- The festival's South Carolina date was subsequently canceled.
Shinedown announced its withdrawal from the Rock the Country festival, a decision that prompted significant fan criticism. The band cited a mission to "unite, not divide" as their reason for exiting, expressing concerns about fostering further division.
Lead singer Brent Smith elaborated on the decision, referencing observed infighting and a lack of unity. He emphasized the importance of the "United States of America" being united, suggesting the festival environment contradicted this principle.
Fan reactions were largely negative, with many taking to social media to call Shinedown "cowards" and express disappointment. Some fans felt the band had alienated their core supporters by prioritizing external pressures over their fanbase.
Following Shinedown's exit, the Rock the Country festival's South Carolina date, scheduled for July 25 and July 26, 2026, was reportedly canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.
The Rock the Country festival is planned to tour various states in 2026, including Georgia, Texas, Florida, and New York, celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
