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Band Timeline
1995
Formation of Godsmack and Early Days
Godsmack was formed in 1995 in Lawrence, Massachusetts by Sully Erna and Robbie Merrill. Sully Erna, shifting from drums to lead vocals and rhythm guitar, assembled the original lineup with guitarist Lee Richards and drummer Tommy Stewart. Originally called The Scam, the band soon changed its name to Godsmack, inspired by an incident involving a cold sore. They started playing local bars around Boston, quickly gaining popularity with early tracks like "Keep Away" and "Whatever."
1997
Release of Debut Album 'All Wound Up...'
In 1997, Godsmack self-released their debut album called 'All Wound Up...' which they recorded in just three days on a low budget. This album was the band's first major step in gaining traction, particularly in the Boston/New England area, achieving local success fueled by heavy airplay of 'Keep Away' on Boston radio. Guitarist Tony Rombola joined the band this year, replacing Lee Richards. The band's lineup began to solidify with the addition of Tony. Drummer Joe D'Arco briefly joined this year but was replaced by Tommy Stewart again in 1998.
1998
Major Label Signing and Re-release of Debut Album
Godsmack signed with Universal/Republic Records in June 1998. They re-released their debut album under the title 'Godsmack' in August 1998, featuring remastered tracks and improved packaging. The major label backing facilitated a broader distribution and marketing push that led to extensive touring, including their first headlining tour "The Godsmack Tour." This period marked their breakthrough to national prominence with their self-titled album eventually shipping four million copies in the United States.
2000
Release of Second Album 'Awake' and Lineup Changes
After touring extensively to support their debut, Godsmack released their second studio album 'Awake' in 2000. The album was commercially successful, though it did not match the sales of their debut. In 2002, amid personal differences, original drummer Tommy Stewart left the band and was replaced by Shannon Larkin, marking a significant lineup change.
2003
Success of Third Album 'Faceless'
Godsmack's third studio album 'Faceless' was released in 2003 and debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart. The album's success established Godsmack as a dominant force in the rock and metal scene. This period also included continued touring and growing fanbase, as well as multiple chart-topping singles.
2004
Release of Acoustic EP 'The Other Side'
In 2004, Godsmack released 'The Other Side,' an acoustic-based EP that debuted at number five on the Billboard 200 and was certified gold by the RIAA. This release demonstrated the band's versatility and ability to explore softer, more melodic music, contrasting with their heavier rock sound.
2006
Fourth Album 'IV' and Continued Success
In 2006, Godsmack released their fourth studio album, 'IV,' which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and achieved platinum status. The band embarked on extensive tours to promote the album, solidifying their reputation as a powerful live act. This was a continuation of a streak of number one albums and major commercial success.
2007
Release of Greatest Hits Compilation
Godsmack released their greatest hits compilation titled 'Good Times, Bad Times... Ten Years of Godsmack' in 2007. This collection featured every major single except one, a Led Zeppelin cover, and an acoustic performance DVD. The compilation served as a milestone celebrating a decade of the band's career and impact on rock music.
2010
Fifth Studio Album 'The Oracle' Released
On May 4, 2010, Godsmack released their fifth studio album 'The Oracle,' which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. This album marked the band's third consecutive album to achieve this feat, placing Godsmack among elite rock bands with multiple number one debuts. It reaffirmed their commercial viability and musical relevance.
2023
Release of Ninth Studio Album 'Lighting Up the Sky'
Godsmack's most recent album, 'Lighting Up the Sky,' was released in 2023. It constitutes the band's ninth studio album, continuing their legacy of over two decades in the music industry. The band remains active and influential within the rock genre, maintaining a significant fanbase and presence in large tours and festivals.
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Story of Godsmack
Godsmack is an American rock band from Lawrence, Massachusetts, formed in February 1995. The band`s current lineup consists of lead singer and rhythm guitarist Sully Erna and bassist Robbie Merrill. Throughout their career, Godsmack has released nine studio albums, an EP, four DVDs, a compilation album, and a live album, with their final album, Lighting Up the Sky, released in 2023.
Since their formation, Godsmack has participated in various major tours and festivals, including multiple appearances at Ozzfest, and has also headlined their own arena tours. They have achieved significant commercial success with three consecutive number-one albums on the Billboard 200 (Faceless, IV, and The Oracle), and have had 25 top-ten rock radio hits, with 12 reaching number one. In recognition of their achievements and the release of their sixth studio album, 1000hp, August 6 was declared Godsmack Day in Boston by Mayor Marty Walsh.
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