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Godsmack is an American rock band from Lawrence, Massachusetts, formed in 1995. The band is currently composed of lead singer and rhythm guitarist Sully Erna and bassist Robbie Merrill. Since its formation, Godsmack has released nine studio albums, one EP (The Other Side), four DVDs, one compilation album (Good Times, Bad Times... Ten Years of Godsmack), and one live album (Live & Inspired). Their final album, Lighting Up the Sky, was released in 2023.

Key Information

Since its inception, Godsmack has toured with Ozzfest on more than one occasion and has toured with many other large tours and festivals, including supporting its albums with its own arena tours. They have released three consecutive number-one albums (Faceless, IV and The Oracle) on the Billboard 200, and have had 25 top-ten rock radio hits and 12 at number one.[1] In honor of the band's success and the release of their sixth studio album, 1000hp, Mayor Marty Walsh declared August 6 as "Godsmack Day" in the city of Boston.[2]

History

[edit]

Formation and All Wound Up... (1995–1997)

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In February 1995, Sully Erna decided to start a new band as the lead singer after playing the drums for more than 23 years, including more than two years in the now-defunct band Strip Mind.[3] His new band, The Scam, formed with Erna on vocals, Robbie Merrill on bass, local guitarist and friend Lee Richards on guitar, and Tommy Stewart on drums. The Scam quickly changed its name to Godsmack, after recording one demo.[4] The newly formed band started playing small bars in their hometown of Boston. Locally popular songs such as "Keep Away" and "Whatever" soon brought them to the top of the hit charts in the Boston/New England area.[3]

The band's name does not derive from the Alice in Chains song of the same name; according to Erna, the name instead came from an incident where he developed a cold sore shortly after a former bandmate did:

"I was making fun of [our drummer at the time][5] who had a cold sore on his lip and the next day I had one myself and somebody said, 'It's a god smack.' The name stuck. We were aware of the Alice In Chains song but didn't really think much about it."[5][6]

In 1996, Tony Rombola joined as the guitarist after Richards left upon learning he had a six-year-old child and Stewart left due to personal differences.[7] In the same year, the band entered New Alliance Studio in Boston to record its debut album, All Wound Up....[3][8] The CD was recorded in just three days for $2,600 and was self-released in February 1997 through the band's own record label, E. K. Records Company.[3][5][9] In May 1997, Joe D'Arco joined to replace Stewart on drums.[10]

Eventually, Godsmack's CD landed in the hands of Rocko, the night-time DJ for Boston radio station WAAF (FM). The radio station put "Keep Away" into heavy rotation and the song rose to the number one spot at the station very quickly.[3] Newbury Comics, a New England record store chain, agreed to sell the CD on consignment. Shortly after the success of "Keep Away", Godsmack went back into the studio and recorded a single titled "Whatever", which became the new local favorite on WAAF (FM).[3][5][9] In an interview Sully Erna stated, "We had been selling maybe 50 copies a month at the time WAAF picked up the album. All of a sudden we started moving over a thousand records a week. (...) I was doing all this from my bedroom. After years of grinding away, things finally started taking off."[11] In April 1998, D'Arco was dismissed from the band.[12] He was replaced by former drummer Tommy Stewart, who returned after expressing a desire to be in the band again.[13]

Godsmack (1998–1999)

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Band logotype used from Awake to 1000hp.

In June 1998, Universal/Republic Records signed the band to their label. The band's first album All Wound Up... was slightly edited to remove unlicensed samples, fully re-mastered and given a new artwork and layout; the finished self-titled album Godsmack was released to the public six weeks later on August 25, 1998.[5][9][14] This led to the band's first headlining tour, "The Godsmack Tour" with Jim Rose Circus as the opening act.[3] After the album's release the band went on the road playing club shows as well as playing at Ozzfest and Woodstock '99. This was followed by a tour in Europe supporting Black Sabbath.[3] Roxanne Blanford from Allmusic gave the album three out of five stars, stating, "Godsmack confidently brought metal into the technological age".[15] The album entered the Billboard 200 at number twenty-two,[16] and was certified 5× platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America in 2024[17] after being initially certified gold in 1999.[18]

The album sold well despite being initially pulled from the shelves in some stores due to concerns over some of its lyrical content.[19] The band and its record label later added a Parental Advisory sticker to the album,[19] and some stores ordered amended copies of the album. Erna commented in Rolling Stone magazine stating, "Our record has been in the marketplace for more than a year now without a parental advisory sticker and this is the one and only complaint ... Stickers and lyrics are by nature subjective ... We have decided to put a sticker on the record." This controversy did not appear to adversely affect album sales but, according to Erna, helped; "It's almost taunting kids to go out and get the record to see what we're saying on it."[20] The album also had four successful singles which were "Whatever", "Keep Away", "Voodoo" and "Bad Religion".[20]

Awake (2000–2001)

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"Vampires"
Sample of "Vampires", an instrumental song from Awake, which received a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Instrumental Performance.
Problems playing this file? See media help.

In 2000, Godsmack returned to the studio after the multi-platinum success of Godsmack to start recording Awake. The album was released on October 31, 2000. The album debuted at number five on the Billboard 200, and has been certified 2× platinum by the RIAA.[16] "Vampires", a song on the album, also earned the band a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Instrumental Performance in 2002.[21] With the release of Awake, Godsmack toured Europe supporting Limp Bizkit.[22] Erna said at the time, "We've been touring nonstop since August 1998, So most of Awake was written on tour while we were ping-ponging between America and Europe, building up the band. "Ozzfest" was actually the only big tour where we rode under someone else's wings; we did a lot of work on our own." The band played Ozzfest in 2000 again as they had in 1999.[18] On July 19, 2001, Godsmack released their first live DVD titled Live.[23] The DVD has since been certified Gold by the RIAA for selling 50,000 copies in the United States.[24]

Two of the songs on the album were used in United States Navy commercials ("Sick of Life" and "Awake") as background music. Erna stated, "Someone in the military is a fan, and they asked if they could use the music, and we accepted".[25] However, Erna insisted in an interview that Godsmack does not support any war.[26]

The Scorpion King, Faceless and The Other Side (2002–2004)

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In 2002, Erna was asked to write and perform a song for the soundtrack to The Scorpion King.[27] The song Godsmack wrote and performed was titled "I Stand Alone" and the song became the number 1 single at Rock Radio and the most played Active Rock song in 2002 for 14 weeks straight.[27] It was also used in the game Prince of Persia: Warrior Within.[28]

With Shannon Larkin (ex Ugly Kid Joe, Souls at Zero, Wrathchild America, MF Pitbulls) replacing Tommy Stewart, who left due to personal differences for the second time,[3][29] Godsmack went back into the studio later that year to record a new album that was released in 2003. Faceless debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 269,000 copies in its first week,[30] and the album would go on to sell over one million copies in the United States.[31] Faceless also debuted at number nine on the Top Canadian Albums and at number one on the Top Internet Albums and remained at that position for two weeks.[32] A massive Tour of America and Europe supporting Metallica followed.

The lead single "Straight Out of Line" received a Grammy Award nomination for "Best Hard Rock Performance". The award went to Evanescence's single "Bring Me to Life".[33] The album got its name after a swimming-pool incident.[34] However, in a later interview Merrill stated otherwise, making it unclear of how the album's title came to be, "It came from the band's feeling that, despite our radio and sales success, we still flew a bit under the radar".[35]

On March 16, 2004 The Other Side, an acoustic EP, was released. The album debuted at number five on the Billboard 200, a relatively high position for an acoustic EP.[16] It included several previously released songs re-recorded as acoustic versions, as well as three new acoustic tracks. One new song, "Touché", featured Godsmack's first guitar player, Lee Richards, as well as John Kosco, who were at that time in the now defunct band Dropbox,[36] The other two new acoustic tracks were "Running Blind" and "Voices".[37] The song "Asleep" is actually an acoustic version of "Awake" from the band's second album Awake.[38] Godsmack shifted from its "heavy" sound to a more mellow acoustic sound on this EP in the same manner Alice in Chains did in the Sap and Jar of Flies EPs, one of many similarities to Alice in Chains for which the band has been criticized.[39]

In 2004, Godsmack opened for Metallica's "Madly in Anger with the World tour",[40] and headlined the tour along with Dropbox. Afterwards, in autumn 2004, the band played several acoustic shows to promote The Other Side, while at the same time continuing to open for Metallica.[41]

IV and Ten Years of Godsmack (2006–2008)

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Sully Erna performing during Godsmack's IV Tour in 2006

Throughout 2006, The band was in the studio recording and writing material for a new album. On April 25, 2006, Godsmack released its fourth studio album simply titled IV, followed by a tour that would continue until January 2008, titled "The IV tour".[42] The album was produced by Erna and engineered by the well known producer and engineer Andy Johns, known for engineering Led Zeppelin's Led Zeppelin IV.[43] The first single from the album, "Speak" was released on February 14, 2006. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 211,000 copies in its first week.[44]

IV has since been certified gold. The band had written over forty songs for the album, but the final track listing had eleven tracks, Larkin commented, "it's Sully's band and his vision.[...]When it comes time to pick the songs it's all Sully".[45] The album's minimalist name "IV" derives not only from its being the band's fourth studio album, but also from a running piece of backstage humor, as related by Larkin and Erna in an interview.[46][47]

To celebrate ten years as a band, Godsmack released a greatest hits album entitled Good Times, Bad Times... Ten Years of Godsmack on December 4, 2007. The album debuted at number thirty-five on the Billboard 200, selling 40,000 copies in the first week of release.[48] It includes a cover of the Led Zeppelin song "Good Times Bad Times", as well as a DVD of Godsmack's acoustic performance in Las Vegas at House of Blues. The album was originally intended to be a boxed set, but the band scrapped the plans so they could release a best of album. Godsmack will follow the release of the album with an acoustic tour.[49] Despite rumors of the band going on hiatus as a result of releasing a greatest hits album, Erna was quoted as saying, "we're not going away, we are just gonna take a break and enjoy our 10th year anniversary and kind of recharge our batteries. And then Godsmack will be back, and we will come back bigger and badder than ever."[49]

The Oracle and break (2008–2013)

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In November 2008, Larkin announced that the band would be reforming and recording a new album.[50] The following summer, the band toured as support to Mötley Crüe's Crüe Fest 2 tour[51] and released a non-album single, "Whiskey Hangover". After the tour, Godsmack started production for their new album. The album, titled The Oracle was released on May 4, 2010.[52][53] Arriving to popular reception, The Oracle was Godsmack's third straight full-length studio album to debut at No. 1 with 117,000 sold in the first week of release.[54] Erna had this to say about the early sound album, "It's gonna be really heavy. I mean, it's very aggressive. I'm not really sure; it's very premature right now. Right now we just finished one track for the Crüe Fest this Summer. But as far as the whole record goes, I think it's going to be a lot more in your face. I don't think there's going to be any 'Voodoo's or 'Serenity's on this one. We decided to go balls out!".[55]

Godsmack headlined the fourth annual Mayhem Festival alongside Disturbed.[56][57] The band entered the studio in January 2012 to mix a live album plus record several covers for an upcoming release.[58] They then went on tour in the spring with Staind.[58][59] In February 2012, Godsmack finished an EP of cover songs.[60][61] Godsmack released their new live album Live & Inspired on May 15, 2012. The set included a bonus EP of cover tracks.[62] In December of the same year, Sully said in an interview that Godsmack would take a break during 2013, stating "We're going to take some time away now because we just ran for the last two years."[63] A month after, Erna announced a short solo tour through America.[64][65]

1000hp (2014–2016)

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Godsmack performing in 2015

In February 2014, Erna announced that the band had made progress in the songwriting process for its next studio album, tentatively scheduled for a late 2014 release. He also mentioned that the band finished 11 songs for the new record in two weeks.[66][67] In April, the band announced that they had recorded 15 songs, ten of which would make the final cut.[68] In May, Erna announced that the album would be titled 1000hp (1000 Horsepower).[69] The album's title track was released as a single the following month.[69] The album was released on August 5, 2014, and sold around 58,000 copies in the United States in its first week of release to land at position No. 3 on The Billboard 200 chart.[70][71] Since release the album has spawned the singles Something Different[72] and What's Next.[73] The band have unified a campaign to aid military veterans with the single What's Next.[73]

Godsmack also headlined the 2014 Uproar Festival.[74] They were announced on August 20, 2014, to be part of the Soundwave Festival in Australia.[75] In July 2015, the band revealed dates for an upcoming North American fall headline tour. The run included dates with Sevendust.[76] Also in August 2015 Godsmack announced a new leg of North American dates that would keep the band busy through mid-November.[77][78]

On October 14, 2015, Godsmack released a digital single called "Inside Yourself" available for a limited free download.[79][80][81][82] On September 9, 2016, Erna confirmed that the band had officially left Universal/Republic, and signed a deal with BMG.[83][84]

When Legends Rise (2017–2020)

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The band began work on a seventh studio album in 2017. The album, When Legends Rise, was released on April 27, 2018.[85][86][87] The album's title track was released as the second single.[88] The album's first single, "Bulletproof", was released ahead of the album on February 28, 2018.[87] The band toured across North America from May through October 2018. They played at several festivals before embarking on a co-headlining summer tour with Shinedown.[89] The band then toured Europe in October and November 2018 in support of their new album.[90] However, On October 17, 2018, it was announced that the band postponed their fall 2018 Europe tour, following death of Tony Rombola's son and plan to reschedule in early 2019.[91][92][93][94]

On July 25, 2019, the song "Under Your Scars" hit number 1 for two weeks for the first time on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Songs chart.[95]

On April 8, 2020, the band released a music video for the song "Unforgettable". The band invited 400 aspiring musicians from middle school students across New England to take part in the video. The video, directed by Noah Berlow, again sent the song to the top of the charts for five weeks, setting a new record most constitutive at number 1 in its category.[96][97]

Lighting Up the Sky (2021–2024)

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Godsmack performing in Worcester, Massachusetts, in 2022

News of a follow-up to the album began circulating as early as August 2019 when frontman Sully Erna revealed in an interview with Canada's iHeartRadio that the band has been preparing to begin the songwriting process for the album.[98]

It was later revealed that Godsmack would be working on two new releases for 2021: an acoustic EP and a full length album.[99] That plan has since been scrapped with Sully admitting that the band was being "a little bit more ambitious" at the time.[100]

With just one album to focus on, Godsmack drummer Shannon Larkin said on "The Metal Teddy Bear Experience" podcast that the band intended for the album to be released in 2022.[101] In an April 23, 2022, interview with WJRR, frontman Sully Erna said that the band has finished recording the new album with a new single expected to hit the airwaves in mid-to-late summer and that the album could be the band's last.[102]

On September 28, 2022, the band released the single titled "Surrender".[103] Shortly after the release of the new single, Sully Erna revealed in an interview with 93X Radio's Pablo that the title of the album would be Lighting Up the Sky and that it would indeed be the band's last record.[104] A second single for the album "You and I" was released on November 11, 2022.[105] The album was released on February 24, 2023.[105] The album had two more singles, "Soul on Fire"[106] and "Truth".[107]

Departures of Tony Rombola and Shannon Larkin (2025–present)

[edit]

On April 2, 2025, it was announced that guitarist Tony Rombola and drummer Shannon Larkin had both left Godsmack in 2024, citing exhaustion after years of touring.[108][109] Following their departure, drummer Will Hunt and guitarist Sam Bam Koltun joined as fill-ins for Larkin and Rombola on the band's month-long 2025 European tour,[110] which concluded in early April. Following the tour, frontman Sully Erna announced that the band would go on a year-long hiatus, during which he might work on some solo material.[111]

Musical style and influences

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Sully Erna playing a drum solo

Godsmack emerged as part of the post-grunge,[112][113][114][115][116] and nu metal movements in the late 1990s,[112][117][118][119] and has been described as alternative metal,[112][113][120][121][122] hard rock,[112][117][123][124][122] and heavy metal.[125][126][127][128] The band's primary influences include Aerosmith, Alice in Chains, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Pantera and Rush according to Erna, Larkin, and Rombola.[43][129][130] Erna credits Layne Staley with inspiring him to start singing,[131] and considers James Hetfield as a primary influence.[132]

The overall sound of the band's first two albums have been compared to Alice in Chains' album Dirt.[133] However, Godsmack has attempted to distance themselves from the Alice in Chains comparison with Erna stating in an interview with Matt Ashare, "I've just never really heard that in our music."[134]

The band's music is often compared to Alice in Chains which the band cites as an influence.[135][136] Adrien Begrand of PopMatters states, "Erna perfectly mimics the late Layne Staley's low, guttural, sinister singing and snarly, metal-inspired growls" and, "The band's music is a faithful retread of Jerry Cantrell's churning, tuned-down hard rock".[135]

Erna's singing style has been stated as "the snarl of James Hetfield", and "composed of dark harmony that sounds a lot like Alice in Chains".[137] Merrill's bass style has been described as "bulldozer bottom with occasional slap-bass reverb".[138] Larkin's drumming is thought to "worship at the twin altars of Neil Peart and John Bonham".[29] And Rombola's guitar playing style has been praised as "guitars that sound like percussion instruments".[138]

Band members

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Current members

  • Sully Erna – lead vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards (1995–present); drums (studio; 1996–2003, 2022–2023, 2024–present); lead guitar (studio; 2024–present)
  • Robbie Merrill – bass (1995–present); backing vocals (2010–present)

Touring members

  • Chris Decato – keyboards (2024)[139]
  • Tim Theriault – rhythm guitar (2024)[139]
  • Will Hunt – drums (2025–present)[140]
  • Sam Koltun – lead guitar (2025–present)[140]

Former members

  • Tommy Stewart – drums (1995–1997, 1998–2002)
  • Lee Richards – lead guitar (1995–1996)
  • Tony Rombola – lead guitar, backing vocals (1996–2025)
  • Joe D'Arco – drums (1997–1998)
  • Shannon Larkin – drums, percussion (2002–2025)

Timeline

Discography

[edit]
Main article: Godsmack discography

Studio albums

Awards and nominations

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Grammy Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2001 "Vampires" Best Rock Instrumental Performance Nominated [141][142]
2003 "I Stand Alone" Best Rock Song Nominated [142]
Best Hard Rock Performance Nominated [141][142]
2004 "Straight Out of Line" Best Hard Rock Performance Nominated

Billboard Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2001 Godsmack Rock Artist of the Year Won [142]
"Awake" Rock Single of the Year Nominated [143]
2006 "Speak" Nominated [144][145]

Boston Music Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
1999 Godsmack Rising Star Won [142]
Outstanding Debut Rock Band Won
"Whatever" Single Of The Year Won
Godsmack Debut Album Of The Year Won
2000 Godsmack Act of the Year Won [142][146]
Outstanding Rock Band Won
Sully Erna Male Vocalist of the Year Won
Sully Erna/Godsmack Song/Songwriter Won
2001 "Greed" Single of the Year Nominated [147]
Video of the Year Nominated
Awake Album of the Year Won [142][148]
Sully Erna Male Vocalist of the Year Won
Godsmack Act of the Year Won
Outstanding Rock Band Won
2002 Rock Band of the Year Won [149]
Sully Erna Male Vocalist of the Year Won
2003 Godsmack Outstanding Rock/Pop Band Won [150]
2006 Hard Rock Act of the Year Won [151]

See also

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References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Godsmack

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Godsmack is an American rock band formed in 1995 in , by , , and , with the group rising to prominence in the late 1990s through their aggressive and sound influenced by bands like . The band's self-released debut album All Wound Up... (1997) was remastered and reissued by Republic/Universal Records as their self-titled major-label debut in 1998, featured the hit single "Whatever," which peaked at No. 7 on the Mainstream Rock chart and helped propel them to mainstream success. Over their career, Godsmack has released eight studio albums, including the platinum-certified (2000), which debuted at No. 5 on the , and three consecutive No. 1 albums on the chart: (2003), IV (2006), and The Oracle (2010). Their later releases, such as 1000hp (2014) and (2018), continued their commercial dominance on rock charts, with the latter topping the Top Rock Albums chart, while (2023) marked their final studio album. Godsmack's music has earned them significant accolades, including four Grammy nominations, two for Best Performance, a Music Award, and two Music Award nominations, alongside 13 No. 1 singles on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart—most recently "Truth" in —and 26 Top 10 hits on the Mainstream Rock Songs chart, tying them with and for the most in that format's history. Originally featuring Erna on vocals and , Merrill on bass, Rombola on , and (who joined in 2002), the band's core lineup drove their success through intense live performances and themes of personal struggle and resilience. In April 2025, Larkin and Rombola announced their departure from the band, citing a desire to retire from touring after three decades, leaving Erna and Merrill to continue with fill-in musicians for ongoing European tours.

History

Formation and All Wound Up... (1995–1997)

Godsmack was founded in February 1995 in , by , who initially conceived it as a solo project after spending over two decades as a in various bands and deciding to transition to lead vocals and . Erna, a Lawrence native influenced by his musical family background, named the project after an song and quickly evolved it into a full band by recruiting local musicians to build a heavy rock sound rooted in personal expression. Erna first brought in bassist in 1995, a longtime acquaintance met through Erna's , with whom he shared a close friendship and even became roommates. The initial lineup was completed by guitarist Lee Richards from North Andover and drummer , but by 1996, from Norwood replaced Richards on lead guitar, solidifying the core group that would drive the band's early development. These early years were marked by challenges, including Erna's personal battles with to drugs and alcohol, which deeply influenced his songwriting by shifting toward raw, honest lyrics drawn from real-life pain and a 1995 friend's suicide that prompted more emotional vulnerability in his compositions. In 1996, the band recorded their debut demo album, All Wound Up..., over three days at a cost of $2,600 in a local studio, self-releasing it in February 1997 on the independent EK Records label. The nine-track effort featured songs like "Wednesday Nights," "Whatever," and "Keep Away," capturing the band's aggressive style and Erna's introspective themes. Local radio station WAAF began airing tracks such as "Whatever" and "Keep Away" in late-night slots, thanks to DJ , which helped generate buzz in the area. Complementing this exposure, Godsmack built a dedicated regional fanbase through frequent live performances at clubs, honing their high-energy stage presence and fostering word-of-mouth support among rock enthusiasts.

Godsmack (1998–1999)

Following the success of their independently released demo album All Wound Up... in 1997, Godsmack signed a multi-record deal with Republic/Universal Records in June 1998. The deal came after the band had built a strong local following in the area through relentless club performances and promotion of the demo, which featured raw demos of tracks that would later define their sound. The self-titled debut album Godsmack originated from sessions for All Wound Up..., initially recorded at New Alliance Studios in for a modest $2,600, with the band handling much of the production themselves. For the major-label release, the material was partially edited, remixed, and fully remastered at Sterling Sound in New York, retaining the DIY ethos while enhancing the production polish under the guidance of vocalist as primary producer. This process preserved the album's gritty, unpolished edge, capturing the band's aggressive and style through heavy riffs, pounding drums, and Erna's snarling vocals. Key tracks like "Voodoo," "Whatever," and "Bad Religion" exemplified this intensity, with "Voodoo" incorporating tribal percussion and mystical undertones, "Whatever" channeling raw defiance, and "Bad Religion" exploring themes of spiritual disillusionment and personal rage drawn from Erna's life experiences. Overall, the album delved into motifs of anger, betrayal, and existential questioning, reflecting the band's frustrations with relationships and societal hypocrisy without veering into overt positivity. Godsmack was released on August 25, 1998, marking the band's transition from underground act to national contenders. It debuted strongly, peaking at No. 1 on the Heatseekers chart and reaching No. 22 on the , driven by radio play of singles like "Whatever." The album's commercial breakthrough solidified its status, earning a 5× Platinum from the RIAA in November 2024 for over five million units sold in the United States. To promote the album, Godsmack embarked on their first national tour in 1999, opening for on select non-festival dates as part of the reunion tour. This exposure led to a slot on the inaugural second stage of Ozzfest 1999, where they performed alongside acts like and , sharing bills with headliners and . The tour showcased their high-energy live presence, helping to expand their fanbase and cement their place in the late-1990s scene.

Awake (2000–2001)

Following the momentum from their multi-platinum debut album, Godsmack began work on their sophomore effort, aiming to build on their rising profile in the rock scene. The band recorded primarily at Productions in , with additional sessions at NRG Studios in North Hollywood, California. Co-produced by frontman and returning collaborator , the sessions emphasized a raw, aggressive sound that amplified the band's heavy riffs and rhythmic intensity. Released on October 31, 2000, via , Awake delves into themes of isolation, anger, and internal conflict, reflecting Erna's personal experiences with emotional turmoil and strained relationships. Standout tracks include the title song "Awake," which opens with thunderous drums and explores awakening to one's inner strength; "," a critique of self-destructive desires; and "Bad Magick," addressing feelings of alienation and unease. The album's 11 songs maintain the and style established on the band's self-titled debut while incorporating more polished production elements. Awake achieved significant commercial success, debuting at No. 5 on the chart upon release and eventually earning a double platinum certification from the RIAA in March 2002 for shipments exceeding two million copies. The lead single "Awake" became a radio staple, reaching No. 1 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and gaining widespread exposure through its use in recruitment commercials under the "Accelerate Your Life" campaign from 2001 to 2004. To capitalize on the album's momentum, Godsmack launched an intensive touring schedule in late 2000, including appearances at and a series of headlining shows across and that extended into 2001. This period marked the band's growing prominence, highlighted by a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Instrumental Performance for the track "Vampires" and a win for Album of the Year at the 2001 Boston Music Awards.

The Scorpion King, Faceless, and The Other Side (2002–2004)

In 2002, Godsmack contributed the original track "I Stand Alone" to the soundtrack for the film , marking the band's expansion into multimedia projects. Written primarily by frontman , the song served as a thematic anchor for the movie's action sequences and became the most-played song of the year. It earned a Grammy nomination for Best Performance at the . Following the success of their previous album Awake, Godsmack began recording their third studio album, , in late 2002 at the Criteria in , , with producer David Bottrill. Released on April 8, 2003, via Republic/Universal Records, the album featured a blend of aggressive riffs and introspective , incorporating more harmonic vocal layers and melodic structures compared to their earlier nu-metal aggression. Standout tracks included the "Straight Out of Line," which addressed personal and band struggles, and "I Fucking Hate You," a raw exploration of emotional turmoil. Faceless achieved immediate commercial success, debuting at No. 1 on the chart with 269,000 copies sold in its first week and eventually certified by the RIAA for over one million units shipped in the U.S. The album spawned music videos for "Straight Out of Line," directed by Dean Karr and featuring intense performance footage, which boosted its radio and airplay. To promote the release, Godsmack embarked on the Faceless Tour, including a prominent slot on the second stage of 2003 alongside acts like and Korn. Building on their evolving sound, Godsmack released the acoustic EP The Other Side on March 16, 2004, via Republic/Universal Records, showcasing a stripped-down approach recorded at Avex Honolulu Studios in Hawaii during a break from touring. The seven-track collection included acoustic reinterpretations of prior hits like "Re-Align" and "Keep Away," alongside three new originals: "Running Blind," the duet "Touché" (featuring former bandmate Lee Richards and Dropbox's John Kosco on backing vocals), and "Voices." This EP highlighted the band's versatility, blending introspective folk-rock elements with their signature intensity, and debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200.

IV and Ten Years of Godsmack (2006–2008)

Following the extensive touring in support of their 2003 album Faceless and 2004 acoustic EP The Other Side, Godsmack entered a period of creative recharge, focusing on songwriting and recording their fourth studio album, IV. The band recorded the album in 2005 at Spiral Recording Studios in Hollywood, California, marking the first time frontman Sully Erna served as the sole producer, with engineering assistance from Andy Johns. Released on April 25, 2006, via Republic Records, IV showcased a more introspective evolution in the band's sound, blending their signature hard rock aggression with melodic elements influenced by classic rock. The album's lyrics delved into themes of personal maturity, emotional vulnerability, and strained relationships, reflecting Erna's experiences with honesty and self-reflection. Standout tracks included the title song "IV," a brooding opener exploring inner turmoil; "Cryin' Like a Bitch," a high-energy rant against ; and "Re-Align," which addressed the challenges of reconnecting in personal bonds. IV debuted at number one on the chart, selling 211,000 copies in its first week, and was later certified by the RIAA for exceeding one million units sold in the United States. To promote IV, Godsmack embarked on an extensive world tour that spanned from mid-2006 through early 2008, including co-headlining North American dates with starting in August 2006 and international shows in and . The tour highlighted the band's live intensity, with setlists featuring new material alongside fan favorites, solidifying their reputation as a premier act. In September 2007, amid this touring cycle, Godsmack released the Good Times, Bad Times... Ten Years of Godsmack on December 4, 2007, via Universal , celebrating their decade-long career. The double-disc set included a new studio recording of their cover of Led Zeppelin's "" as the opener, alongside remastered hits like "Whatever," "Voodoo," and "," plus a bonus DVD with live performances spanning 1998 to 2007, capturing key moments from their early club shows to arena spectacles.

The Oracle and hiatus (2008–2013)

Following the extensive touring in support of their previous album IV, Godsmack began work on their fifth studio album, The Oracle, in 2008. The album was recorded primarily at Serenity West Studios in , , with production handled by Dave Fortman and frontman . Released on May 4, 2010, by Universal Republic Records, The Oracle marked the band's return after a four-year gap between studio albums. The Oracle debuted at number one on the chart, selling 117,000 copies in its first week. The album featured a mix of heavy riffs and introspective themes, with standout tracks including the lead single "Cryin' Like a Bitch!!", the aggressive "Love-Hate-Sex-Pain", and the brooding "Saints and Sinners". To build anticipation, the band released a series of webisodes titled "The Making of The Oracle", offering behind-the-scenes looks at the recording process. In promotion of the album, Godsmack embarked on a headlining tour across , including festival appearances such as Bayfest in October 2010, where they shared with acts like and Mötley Crüe. The tour highlighted the band's high-energy live performances, though it was tempered by the physical toll of years on the road. During this period, they also experimented with acoustic arrangements, which later culminated in the release of Live & Inspired, a featuring live recordings from the Fox Theatre in and acoustic covers of influences like Metallica's "". By 2011, amid growing personal commitments, Godsmack announced an indefinite hiatus following their commitments to the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival. The break allowed members to focus on family and individual pursuits, with promoting his solo debut —an eclectic blend of elements released in September 2010—through a supporting tour in 2011. Drummer also explored side projects like during this time. The hiatus lasted until 2014, with no new Godsmack material issued in the interim.

1000hp (2014–2016)

Following a three-year hiatus after the release of The Oracle in , Godsmack reunited in early 2014 to begin work on their sixth studio album, marking a return to active recording and performance. The band, consisting of on vocals and rhythm guitar, on lead guitar, on bass, and on drums, channeled the break into a renewed creative focus, emphasizing a raw, energetic sound that harked back to their early aggression while incorporating subtle modern production touches. This period represented a revitalization for the group, as they emerged from downtime to deliver material that frontman Erna described as a high-octane statement of endurance. The album, stylized as 1000hp, was recorded at the band's newly constructed 4,000-square-foot headquarters in , , providing a familiar and controlled environment for the sessions. Produced by Dave Fortman and —who had previously collaborated on The Oracle—the project was mixed at Ocean Way Studios in Hollywood, California, and mastered to capture a punchy, live-wire intensity. Released on August 5, 2014, through , 1000hp featured 10 tracks clocking in at around 45 minutes, with standout singles including the title track "1000hp" (debuted May 17, 2014), "Something Different" (September 13, 2014), and "What's Next?" (May 19, 2015). These songs exemplified the album's high-energy style, blending driving riffs, thunderous drums, and occasional atmospheric layers from keyboards and samplers handled by Chris Decato, creating a dynamic mix of aggression and melody without straying far from the band's roots. Commercially, 1000hp debuted at No. 3 on the chart, selling 58,000 copies in its first week and marking the band's sixth consecutive top-10 album. This success underscored Godsmack's enduring appeal in the rock scene, as the release outperformed expectations amid a shifting music landscape dominated by digital streaming. The album's promotion included a series of behind-the-scenes webisodes documenting the recording process, offering fans insight into the band's creative workflow and building anticipation through platforms like . A black-and-white for the title track, directed by , intercut modern performance footage with archival clips from the band's 1998 self-titled era, evoking a sense of evolution and continuity; it premiered on August 13, 2014, and amassed millions of views shortly after. To support 1000hp, Godsmack launched an extensive touring schedule, headlining the 2014 Rockstar Energy Drink Uproar Festival alongside acts like and , which spanned multiple U.S. dates from August to October. The band followed this with their own 1000hp Tour in 2015, delivering high-production arena shows that highlighted new material alongside staples like "Voodoo" and "I Stand Alone." Festival appearances further amplified their return, including a main-stage slot at the 2015 in , where they performed to a sold-out crowd of over 40,000 on May 3, drawing from the album's tracks to energize the audience. These outings not only promoted 1000hp but also reignited live momentum, with setlists averaging 18 songs and emphasizing the album's raw power. Building on the acoustic explorations from their 2012 live Live & Inspired—released May 15 during the hiatus with reimagined covers like Joe Walsh's "Rocky Mountain Way"—Godsmack carried forward an experimental edge into the 1000hp , using the earlier project's stripped-down vibe to their fuller and sustain fan through the transition. This acoustic release, featuring live recordings from their 2010 tour plus inspired covers, had kept the band visible and sold modestly at No. 116 on the , setting the stage for the more aggressive return. By 2016, the touring cycle wound down, allowing the band to reflect on the 's role in reaffirming their status as stalwarts.

When Legends Rise (2017–2020)

In early 2018, Godsmack recorded their seventh studio album, When Legends Rise, at the band's headquarters (GSHQ) in Derry, New Hampshire. The sessions were produced by frontman Sully Erna and Erik Ron, emphasizing a raw, intense sound that marked the group's shift to BMG as their label. The album was released on April 27, 2018, available in digital, CD, and vinyl formats, and debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart with 48,000 equivalent album units in its first week. It later achieved RIAA gold certification in September 2021 for surpassing 500,000 units. The album features a mix of aggressive heavy riffs and introspective vulnerability, reflecting Erna's personal growth amid band challenges. Standout tracks include the title track "When Legends Rise," which opens with thunderous percussion and anthemic choruses; "Unholy," blending dark, grinding guitars with themes of inner turmoil; and "What About Us," a closing exploring isolation and resilience. These songs, along with singles like "Bulletproof" and "Under Your Scars," all topped the Mainstream Rock Songs chart, showcasing the album's commercial potency. To promote , Godsmack launched a North American headline tour in summer 2018, co-headlining with and including stops at major festivals like . The trek extended into fall dates across the U.S. and was followed by a European leg in late 2018, rescheduled to early 2019 after a due to a family tragedy involving guitarist Tony Rombola's son. These performances highlighted refreshed energy, with setlists incorporating new material alongside classics. The onset of the in 2020 disrupted Godsmack's momentum, leading to the cancellation of all touring plans for the year to prioritize and band safety. Frontman emphasized the uncertainty of live events in interviews, opting instead for virtual engagements like solo acoustic streams on and a drive-in tour with Staind's in October 2020, where fans viewed unplugged sets from their vehicles. Other members, including drummer and Rombola, channeled creativity into side projects, such as releasing psychedelic tracks under The Apocalypse Revival moniker.

Lighting Up the Sky (2021–2024)

The recording of Godsmack's eighth studio album, Lighting Up the Sky, took place in 2022 at the band's GSHQ Studios in Derry, New Hampshire, allowing members to collaborate sporadically over several months without a rigid timeline, a process influenced by the additional time afforded by the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Co-produced by frontman Sully Erna and Andrew "Mudrock" Murdock—who had previously worked on the band's debut and sophomore albums—the project marked a deliberate effort to create a high-energy hard rock record that reflected personal growth and band dynamics after years of touring. Erna handled multiple roles, including lead vocals, rhythm guitar, and additional instrumentation like Moog synthesizer and keyboards on select tracks, emphasizing a melodic yet powerful sound to cap the original lineup's studio output. Released on February 24, 2023, via BMG, features 11 tracks that explore reflective themes of life's journey, relationships, betrayal, and the band's career trajectory, with the sequencing evoking a conceptual arc akin to Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon. Standout singles include "Surrender," released on September 28, 2022, as the band's first new music in four years; "You and I," unveiled on November 11, 2022; and the title track, which dropped on January 27, 2023, and serves as an emotional summation of Erna's professional path. The album debuted at No. 19 on the , selling 21,000 album-equivalent units in its first week, and topped the Top Hard Rock Albums chart, underscoring the enduring appeal of Godsmack's signature style. Promotion for began with a listening party at the in on September 29, 2022, followed by a spring U.S. tour co-headlined with starting in May 2023, featuring support from acts like and on select dates. Amid these efforts, Erna publicly announced in early 2023 that the album would be the final studio release with the band's original lineup, shifting focus to live performances as a means of sustaining their legacy without the pressures of new recordings. The period concluded with extensive U.S. touring in 2023 and 2024, including fall dates with and , as well as the Vibez Tour and Best of Times World Tour, where setlists blended classics with new material to deliver a sense of closure and gratitude to fans. These performances, often featuring extended drum battles between and Erna, highlighted the band's tight-knit chemistry and commitment to ending on a high note, with Erna describing the outings as a "forever" dedication to live energy over studio commitments.

Lineup changes (2025–present)

On April 2, 2025, Godsmack announced the amicable departure of guitarist and drummer after nearly three decades with the band, citing their desire for quieter lives away from the rigors of touring. The departures took effect late in 2024, allowing the band—now reduced to a core duo of vocalist and bassist —to proceed with planned activities. Godsmack commenced their 2025 European tour on March 22 in , , without Rombola and Larkin, enlisting temporary touring musicians on drums (formerly of ) and Sam Bam Koltun on guitar (of Dorothy and ) to fill the roles. In statements following the tour's completion in April 2025, Erna indicated no immediate plans for a new album, with the band opting for a full year-long hiatus to reflect on potential evolution amid the lineup shift. As of November 2025, the band has been announced for the 2026 festival, signaling a return to touring following the hiatus.

Musical style and influences

Musical style

Godsmack's musical style is rooted in and , blending heavy, riff-driven aggression with elements of . The band's core sound features thunderous, percussive drumming patterns, often evoking a tribal intensity, paired with gritty, raspy vocals delivered by frontman . These elements create a raw, emotive intensity, as heard in signature tracks like "Voodoo" from their 1998 self-titled debut, which incorporates tribal percussion instruments to build hypnotic rhythms. Over their career, Godsmack's sound has evolved from the raw, unpolished aggression of their early work to more melodic and experimental territory. Their debut album in 1998 showcased abrasive, straightforward heavy riffs and intense energy, capturing a post-grunge edge that propelled them to mainstream success. By the time of Faceless in 2003, the band incorporated catchier choruses and a more mature balance of heaviness and melody, while later releases like the acoustic EP The Other Side (2004) explored stripped-down, introspective arrangements. This progression continued into albums such as 1000hp (2014), When Legends Rise (2018), and Lighting Up the Sky (2023), where subtle electronic textures and anthemic structures added layers to their hard rock foundation, with the later works emphasizing increased maturity and emotional depth, reflecting a shift toward broader sonic experimentation without abandoning their riff-centric core. Signature aspects of Godsmack's style include percussive intros that set a ritualistic tone, often tied to themes of and through dynamic builds and heavy guitar work. The band's use of drop tunings and aggressive riffing, typically on six-string guitars, contributes to their muscular, groove-oriented sound. Production-wise, early efforts embodied a DIY , with the 1998 debut originating as a self-financed demo recorded for $2,500 in a studio. As their career advanced, production became more polished through collaborations with engineers like and Erna's hands-on multi-instrumental role, resulting in radio-ready clarity while retaining a gritty edge across albums like Awake (2000) and beyond.

Influences

Godsmack's music draws heavily from the and heavy metal traditions, with frontman citing as a major influence for its emotional depth and heavy riffing, particularly evident in the vocal style and thematic intensity of their debut album. Erna has described ' Dirt as transformative, inspiring his shift toward singing with a mystical, introspective edge that permeates Godsmack's songwriting. also shaped the band's approach to ominous riffs and dark, occult-inspired themes, which Erna credits as foundational to their sound, alongside influences like Led for dynamic structures. As Boston natives, Godsmack's roots in the local rock scene are tied to Aerosmith, whose raw energy and blues-infused hard rock from albums like Rocks provided a blueprint for the band's aggressive style and hometown pride. Erna's personal inspirations extend to spirituality and cultural elements, including Wiccan practices that inform lyrical mysticism in tracks like "Voodoo," as well as Native American influences explored in his solo work, blending earthy percussion and folk acoustics with Godsmack's heavier palette. These draw from broader hard rock lineages, such as Nine Inch Nails' industrial edge, while Erna's acoustic interests—seen in his Avalon album—introduce folk-like introspection absent in pure metal. The band's career was propelled by the late-1990s scene, where gritty performances honed their high-energy live shows, further amplified by appearances starting in 1999, which exposed them to massive crowds and reinforced their intense, ritualistic stage presence akin to heavy metal forebears. Early tours with acts like , though not a core stylistic influence, contributed to Godsmack's adoption of percussive, groove-heavy elements in their nu-metal-adjacent era, helping define their breakthrough sound without fully embracing the genre.

Band members

Current members

As of 2025, Godsmack's current core members consist of vocalist and , operating as a duo following significant lineup changes. Sully Erna serves as the band's lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, while also acting as the primary songwriter whose contributions have shaped Godsmack's discography since its inception in 1995. Erna has additionally taken on production roles for several albums and infuses the band's lyrics with themes of spirituality drawn from his personal interests in meditation and holistic practices. Robbie Merrill, a founding member since 1995, provides and has maintained a consistent presence throughout the band's history as a key part of . Despite his relatively low-profile demeanor, Merrill's steady bass work has been essential to Godsmack's heavy, groove-oriented sound across all eras.

Former members

Lee Richards – lead guitar (1995–1996) Tony Rombola joined Godsmack in 1996 as the ist and , contributing his technical prowess to the band's heavy rock sound through intricate guitar solos and co-writing several tracks across their . Over nearly three decades, he helped define the group's riff-driven style and live energy. Rombola departed the band in 2024 (announced April 2025), citing a desire to end touring obligations. Shannon Larkin became Godsmack's drummer in 2002, succeeding and bringing a hard-hitting, groove-oriented approach that bolstered the band's rhythmic foundation on multiple albums and tours. His tenure lasted until 2024 (announced April 2025), when he left alongside Rombola to prioritize family time over road life. Larkin maintained side projects outside Godsmack, notably co-founding the blues-rock outfit Apocalypse Blues Revival with Rombola. In Godsmack's formative years before achieving stability, the band cycled through drummers with short tenures. Joe D'Arco handled percussion from 1997 to 1998, appearing on early demos, while originally drummed from 1995 to 1997 and rejoined briefly from 1998 to 2002, contributing to the self-titled debut album. These early contributors helped the group refine its lineup amid initial local scene challenges.

Touring musicians

In 2025, Godsmack began utilizing touring musicians to fill key roles during their European tour following the departure of longtime members and . These substitutes have enabled the band to maintain their performance schedule without altering their core creative process. Drummer , known for his work with , joined Godsmack as the touring drummer starting with the band's first show of the year in , , on March 23, 2025. Hunt's involvement was confirmed by frontman in interviews, where he noted the temporary nature of the arrangement to support ongoing live commitments. His performances have focused exclusively on stage support, with no reported contributions to studio recordings. Guitarist Sam "Bam" Koltun, who has previously played with Dorothy and , stepped in on lead guitar for the same tour dates, debuting alongside Hunt in . Like Hunt, Koltun's role is limited to live performances, helping to preserve the band's high-energy shows amid the lineup shifts. This approach underscores Godsmack's strategy of employing session and touring players to sustain their touring presence while avoiding permanent alterations to their established sound.

Discography

Studio albums

Godsmack's debut self-titled album, released on August 25, 1998, through , was produced by and (Andrew Murdock). It peaked at No. 22 on the chart and has been certified 5× Platinum by the RIAA on November 20, 2024, for sales exceeding 5 million units in the United States. The band's second album, Awake, arrived on October 31, 2000, also via Republic/Universal, with production handled by and . It debuted at No. 5 on the and earned 2× Platinum certification from the RIAA on March 8, 2002, representing shipments of over 2 million copies. Faceless, released March 31, 2003, on Republic/Universal Records, was co-produced by Sully Erna and David Bottrill. The album topped the Billboard 200 upon release and received Platinum certification from the RIAA on May 17, 2003, for 1 million units shipped. In 2006, Godsmack issued their fourth studio effort, IV, on April 25 through Republic Records, produced by Sully Erna and Andy Johns. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and later achieved Platinum status from the RIAA. The Oracle, the band's fifth album, came out on May 4, 2010, via Universal Republic, produced by Dave Fortman and . It peaked at No. 4 on the and was certified by the RIAA on October 7, 2011, for 500,000 units. Godsmack's sixth release, 1000hp, was released August 5, 2014, on , co-produced by and Dave Fortman. The album reached No. 5 on the . When Legends Rise, issued April 27, 2018, through BMG, featured production by and Erik Ron. It debuted at No. 8 on the and earned Gold certification from the RIAA on September 27, 2021, for 500,000 equivalent units. The eighth and final studio album, , was released February 24, 2023, on BMG, co-produced by and . It peaked at No. 13 on the .
AlbumRelease DateProducer(s)Billboard 200 PeakRIAA Certification
GodsmackAugust 25, 1998Sully Erna, 225× Platinum (2024)
October 31, 2000, 52× Platinum (2002)
FacelessMarch 31, 2003Sully Erna, David Bottrill1Platinum (2003)
IVApril 25, 2006Sully Erna, Andy Johns1Platinum
The OracleMay 4, 2010Dave Fortman, Sully Erna4Gold (2011)
1000hpAugust 5, 2014Dave Fortman, Sully Erna5—
April 27, 2018Erik Ron, Sully Erna8Gold (2021)
February 24, 2023, 13—

Live and compilation albums

Godsmack's first compilation album, Good Times, Bad Times... Ten Years of Godsmack, was released on December 4, 2007, by Universal Records to commemorate the band's decade-long career. The 16-track collection features key singles from their previous albums, such as "Whatever," "Voodoo," and "I Stand Alone," alongside two new recordings: a cover of Led Zeppelin's "Good Times Bad Times" and the original track "Running Blind." It also includes a bonus DVD with acoustic performances from a Las Vegas show at the House of Blues. The album debuted at No. 35 on the Billboard 200, selling 40,000 copies in its first week, and was later certified gold by the RIAA for shipments of 500,000 units. This release served as a milestone retrospective, encapsulating the band's evolution from their self-titled debut to their fourth studio album IV, while highlighting their signature hard rock intensity through curated selections spanning their early hits and thematic growth. In 2012, Godsmack issued their debut live album, Live & Inspired, on May 15 via Universal Republic Records, offering fans a dual-disc experience that captured both raw concert energy and intimate acoustic reinterpretations. The first disc presents 13 live tracks recorded primarily during a 2007 performance at the Fox Theatre in Detroit, Michigan, including high-energy renditions of staples like "Straight Out of Line," "Awake," and "Voodoo" that showcase the band's commanding stage presence and crowd interaction. The second disc shifts to "inspired" covers of influences such as Metallica's "Nothing Else Matters," The Beatles' "Come Together," and Joe Walsh's "Rocky Mountain Way," recorded acoustically at Z93 studios to emphasize Sully Erna's vocal depth and the group's stripped-down dynamics. Debuting at No. 19 on the Billboard 200 with 41,000 units sold in its opening week, the album underscored Godsmack's versatility in live settings and their nod to rock heritage, bridging fan-favorite anthems with reverent tributes.

Singles and EPs

Godsmack's singles have consistently performed well on rock radio, with many achieving top positions on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Airplay chart over their career. Their debut single "Whatever," released in 1998 from the band's self-titled album, peaked at No. 7 on the Mainstream Rock chart. "Voodoo" followed as an early single, peaking at No. 5 on the Mainstream Rock chart. Subsequent releases solidified their radio dominance. In 2000, "Awake" from the album of the same name topped the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart at No. 1, marking the band's first chart-topper. The 2002 single "I Stand Alone," originally written for the soundtrack to the film The Scorpion King, also reached No. 1 on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart and earned a nomination for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards. "Straight Out of Line" followed in 2003 from the album Faceless, peaking at No. 1 on the same chart. The band maintained this momentum into the 2020s, with "Surrender" from their 2023 album Lighting Up the Sky reaching No. 1 on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart for multiple weeks in late 2022, becoming their 12th leader on the tally, followed by "Truth" as their 13th No. 1 in 2024. Several singles, including "Bulletproof" (2018), have received RIAA certifications, with "Bulletproof" attaining Platinum status for one million units sold. In addition to full-length singles, Godsmack released the acoustic EP The Other Side in 2004, featuring stripped-down versions of five tracks from their catalog along with a new song, "Touché." The EP debuted and peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard 200, a notable achievement for the shorter format, and was later certified Gold by the RIAA.

Awards and nominations

Grammy Awards

Godsmack has received four Grammy Award nominations throughout their career, acknowledging their prominent role in the hard rock genre, though the band has yet to secure a win. These nods primarily highlight standout tracks from their early albums, emphasizing their heavy riffs and intense songwriting. The band's debut Grammy recognition occurred at the in 2002 (for 2001 releases), where "Vampires"—an instrumental track from their 2000 album —was nominated for Best Rock Instrumental Performance. This nomination underscored Godsmack's exploration of atmospheric, riff-driven instrumentals amid their rising popularity in the scene. In 2003, at the (for 2002 releases), Godsmack garnered two nominations for "I Stand Alone," a powerful originally recorded for the The Scorpion King soundtrack and later included on their 2003 album . The song was recognized in the Best Hard Rock Performance category for its aggressive energy and in Best Rock Song for its lyrical depth and composition. These dual honors reflected the track's commercial success and its embodiment of the band's raw, confrontational style. The following year, at the in 2004 (for 2003 releases), "Straight Out of Line"—the lead single from —earned a nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance, further cementing Godsmack's reputation for delivering high-impact rock anthems.
YearCategoryWorkAlbum/Soundtrack
2002Best Rock Instrumental Performance"Vampires"Awake
2003Best Hard Rock Performance"I Stand Alone" /
2003Best Rock Song"I Stand Alone" /
2004Best Hard Rock Performance"Straight Out of Line"

Billboard Music Awards

Godsmack earned a for Top Rock Artist in 2001, highlighting their strong chart performance across rock formats during that period. This win recognized the band's breakthrough success, driven by multiple No. 1 hits on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart, including "Awake" from their 2000 album of the same name. The accolade underscored Godsmack's commercial dominance in the early rock scene, where they amassed several top-charting singles that propelled their rise on 's rock rankings. For instance, tracks like "Voodoo" and "Awake" topped the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart, contributing directly to their artist award by demonstrating sustained popularity based on airplay and sales metrics. While the band has not secured additional wins at the , their ongoing chart achievements, including 13 No. 1s on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart, reflect the enduring impact of their music on rock radio.

Boston Music Awards

Godsmack garnered significant recognition from the Boston Music Awards during their early career, reflecting strong local support in their hometown. The band, formed in Lawrence in 1995, began receiving accolades as they rose from regional club scenes to national prominence, with these awards underscoring their roots in the rock community. Between 1999 and 2003, Godsmack accumulated multiple wins, totaling around 10 honors in categories such as Act of the Year, , and album-specific achievements, which provided an early boost to their visibility in the music scene. In 1999, Godsmack's self-titled debut album earned the Debut Album of the Year award, marking their breakthrough following its release in August 1998 and highlighting the band's rapid ascent from local favorites to major-label signees. This win celebrated the album's raw energy and tracks like "Whatever," which resonated strongly in Boston's circles. The year 2000 saw Godsmack dominate with three awards at the April 13 ceremony at the Orpheum Theatre: Act of the Year, Rock Band (major label), and Male Vocalist of the Year for frontman . These honors acknowledged the band's explosive popularity after their debut's success and Erna's commanding stage presence, solidifying their status as Boston's premier act. Building on this momentum, Godsmack swept four categories in 2001, also held at the Orpheum Theatre: Act of the Year, Album of the Year for Awake, , and Male Vocalist of the Year for Erna. The Awake recognition praised its heavier sound and hits like "Voodoo," while the repeated Act of the Year win emphasized the band's enduring hometown appeal amid their growing national tours. In 2002, the band continued their streak with two wins on April 11 at the Orpheum: and Male Vocalist for Erna. These awards came during a peak period for Godsmack, as they balanced album promotions with extensive touring, further cementing their influence on Boston's rock landscape. Godsmack closed out their early awards run with the Outstanding Rock/Pop Band honor in , awarded on September 4 at the . This accolade reflected their sustained impact on the local scene, even as their focus shifted toward broader commercial success. Overall, these Music Awards wins—spanning roughly a half-dozen ceremonies—highlighted the band's deep ties to the region, fostering community pride and contributing to their foundational growth before wider acclaim.
YearCategoryWinnerDetails
1999Debut Album of the YearGodsmackSelf-titled debut album
2000Act of the YearGodsmackOverall top act
2000Rock Band (major label)GodsmackBand performance recognition
2000Male Vocalist (major label)Vocal excellence
2001Act of the YearGodsmackOverall top act
2001Album of the YearSecond studio album
2001Rock BandGodsmackBand performance recognition
2001Male Vocalist of the YearVocal excellence
2002Rock BandGodsmackBand performance recognition
2002Male VocalistVocal excellence
2003Outstanding Rock/Pop BandGodsmackCombined rock/pop category

Other recognitions

Godsmack has received two nominations at the , including Rock Artist of the Year in 2020 and Rock Song of the Year for "Bulletproof" in 2019. The band has secured multiple victories in Loudwire's Cage Match competitions, such as a 2012 win against with their cover of "Rocky Mountain Way," marking their second consecutive triumph in the fan-voted showdown. Godsmack's commercial success includes selling over 20 million records worldwide across their . Additional milestones encompass "Bulletproof" earning a Digital Single from the RIAA in 2020 and becoming the most-played song at rock radio in 2018.

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  19. https://loudwire.com/better-1998-rock-album-godsmack-godsmack-vs-rob-zombie-hellbilly-deluxe/
  20. https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/?tab_active=default-award&ar=Godsmack&ti=Godsmack#search_section
  21. https://www.facebook.com/RIAA/posts/congratulations-godsmack-on-earning-a-riaa-5x-platinum-certification-for-their-d/1014484660720860/
  22. https://www.black-sabbath.com/tourdates/1999tour/
  23. https://www.heraldtimesonline.com/story/news/1999/06/26/godsmack-hits-the-road-with-ozzfes/118585216/
  24. https://www.ozzy.com/archives/tour/ozzfest-1999
  25. https://www.discogs.com/release/2176677-Godsmack-Awake
  26. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-awake-anniversary/
  27. https://music.apple.com/us/album/awake/1444044913
  28. https://www.songfacts.com/facts/godsmack/awake
  29. https://www.grammy.com/awards/45th-annual-grammy-awards
  30. https://newreleases.discogs.com/search?q=Toni%20Merrill
  31. https://www.discogs.com/release/1064353-Godsmack-Faceless
  32. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/godsmack-out-to-rock-naysayers-on-faceless-72671/
  33. https://www.knac.com/article.asp?ArticleID=2128
  34. https://www.antimusic.com/hm/2003/gs.shtml
  35. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/godsmack-takes-faceless-straight-to-no-1-71510/
  36. https://imvdb.com/video/godsmack/straight-out-of-line
  37. https://www.godsmack.com/all-music
  38. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-the-other-side-track-listing-announced
  39. https://www.discogs.com/release/702144-Godsmack-IV
  40. https://www.udiscovermusic.com/news/godsmack-iv-vinyl-release/
  41. https://shop.godsmack.com/products/iv-standard-2lp
  42. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-s-iv-tops-billboard-album-chart
  43. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/godsmack-earns-second-no-1-with-iv-58551/
  44. https://www.pluggedin.com/album-reviews/godsmack-iv/
  45. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-rob-zombie-tour-dates-announced
  46. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/godsmack?page=1&year=2006
  47. https://www.discogs.com/master/232137-Godsmack-Good-Times-Bad-TimesTen-Years-Of-Godsmack
  48. https://www.amazon.com/Good-Times-Bad-Years-Godsmack/dp/B000WMEAKM
  49. https://www.discogs.com/release/3433218-Godsmack-The-Oracle
  50. https://www.udiscovermusic.com/news/godsmack-the-oracle-vinyl-release/
  51. https://www.billboard.com/charts/billboard-200/2010-05-29
  52. https://insidepulse.com/2010/03/04/godsmack-news-the-making-of-webisode-series-in-anticipation-of-the-oracle-video/
  53. https://backstageaxxess.com/2012/05/godsmack-live-inspired/
  54. https://www.mlive.com/music/2011/06/sully_erna_talks_new_solo_proj.html
  55. https://www.lehighvalleylive.com/music/2011/07/godsmack_drummer_shannon_larki.html
  56. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmacks-1000hp-lands-at-no-3-on-billboard-chart
  57. https://www.discogs.com/release/14790865-Godsmack-1000HP
  58. https://genius.com/albums/Godsmack/1000hp
  59. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-1000hp-video-debut-no-3-new-album/
  60. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rL4em-Xv5o
  61. https://www.musicrecallmagazine.com/tours/2014-rockstar-energy-uproar-festival-will-feature-headliners-godsmack/
  62. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/godsmack/2015/charlotte-motor-speedway-concord-nc-23c83887.html
  63. https://news.pollstar.com/2015/02/09/godsmack-coming-your-way/
  64. https://www.allmusic.com/album/live-inspired-mw0002348792
  65. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-making-of-when-legends-rise-album-part-one-video
  66. https://www.billboard.com/pro/godsmack-under-your-scars-number-one-mainstream-rock-songs-chart/
  67. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmacks-when-legends-rise-album-certified-gold-in-u-s
  68. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-when-legends-rise-album-review/
  69. https://www.billboard.com/pro/godsmack-unforgettable-tops-mainstream-rock-songs/
  70. https://consequence.net/2018/11/godsmack-rescheduled-european-tour-2019/
  71. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-cancels-all-touring-plans-for-2020
  72. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-canceling-2020-tour-plans/
  73. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-members-apocalypse-blues-revival-optimystic-song-lyrics-new-album/
  74. https://www.therockpit.net/2023/interview-godsmack-sully-erna/
  75. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmacks-sully-erna-explains-what-an-album-producer-does
  76. https://www.bmg.com/news/Godsmack-release-album-Lighting-Up-The-Sky
  77. https://www.revolvermag.com/music/sully-erna-rush-friendship-dating-lady-gaga-godsmacks-final-album/
  78. https://www.bmg.com/news/New-albums-from-Godsmack-Logic-and-Adam-Lambert-make-their-debut-on-the-Billboard-charts
  79. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-announces-may-2023-u-s-tour-with-i-prevail
  80. https://consequence.net/2023/02/godsmack-sully-erna-interview-2023/2/
  81. https://www.godsmack.com/tour
  82. https://blabbermouth.net/news/shannon-larkin-explains-why-lighting-up-the-sky-will-likely-be-godsmacks-final-album
  83. https://americansongwriter.com/multiple-godsmack-members-officially-quit-the-band/
  84. https://axs.tv/news-story/godsmack-confirm-shannon-larkin-and-tony-rombola-quit-band-last-year/
  85. https://blabbermouth.net/news/sully-erna-godsmack-is-taking-a-full-year-off
  86. https://blabbermouth.net/news/watch-godsmack-plays-second-concert-with-drummer-will-hunt-guitarist-sam-bam-koltun
  87. https://consequence.net/2025/03/godsmack-2025-touring-lineup/
  88. https://loudwire.com/sully-erna-godsmack-taking-full-year-off-following-european-tour/
  89. https://loudwire.com/welcome-to-rockville-2026-lineup/
  90. https://www.allmusic.com/album/godsmack-mw0000042111
  91. https://loudwire.com/big-4-bands-post-grunge/
  92. https://www.gigwise.com/recapping-the-roots-and-the-evolution-of-godsmack-rock-band/
  93. https://www.songfacts.com/facts/godsmack/voodoo
  94. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUZO59Cr9j0
  95. https://gear-vault.com/godsmack-smack-attack/
  96. https://www.mixonline.com/recording/godsmack-374865
  97. https://loudwire.com/sully-erna-godsmack-struggle-nu-metal/
  98. https://blabbermouth.net/news/watch-godsmacks-sully-erna-sing-alice-in-chains-man-in-the-box
  99. https://www.loudersound.com/features/godsmacks-sully-erna-10-records-that-changed-my-life
  100. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-singer-sully-erna-awe-rage-against-the-machine-foo-fighters/
  101. https://screamermagazine.com/interviews/sully-erna-takes-hometown-life-heart-second-solo-release/
  102. https://bostonphoenix.com/archive/music/99/04/29/GODSMACK.html
  103. https://abc3340.com/news/entertainment/godsmack-undergoes-significant-line-up-changes-as-2-members-part-ways-with-band-sully-erna-tony-rombola-shannon-larkin-guitar-drums-guitarist-drummer-singer-lead-vocalist-bass-bassist-rock-music-concerts-live-performances-tours-touring
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  108. https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/godsmack-robbie-merrill-interview/
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  110. https://www.top40-charts.com/artist.php?aid=2294
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  113. https://blabbermouth.net/news/shannon-larkin-says-he-and-tony-rombola-quit-godsmack-last-year
  114. https://www.drummagazine.com/godsmack-shannon-larkin/
  115. https://www.vintageguitar.com/38201/tony-rombola/
  116. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-2025-fill-ins-sully-erna-explains/
  117. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-kicks-off-2025-european-tour-without-drummer-shannon-larkin-and-guitarist-tony-rombola
  118. https://www.theprp.com/2024/11/20/news/godsmacks-self-titled-debut-album-lands-fifth-multi-platinum-certification/
  119. https://top40-charts.com/artist.php?aid=2294
  120. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-s-faceless-certified-platinum
  121. https://www.rcreader.com/music/godsmack-vibrant-arena-sep28
  122. https://www.bighassle.com/godsmack
  123. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-dave-fortman-1000hp-webisode/
  124. https://sropr.com/press-releases/godsmack-earn-riaa-gold-certification-for-their-when-legends-rise-album-the-scars-foundation-established-to-coincide-with-the-release-of-albums-under-your-scars/
  125. https://www.billboard.com/music/rock/godsmack-lighting-up-the-sky-final-album-1235260149/
  126. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-good-times-bad-times-first-week-sales-revealed
  127. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmack-live-inspired-first-week-sales-revealed
  128. https://www.discogs.com/release/8809357-Godsmack-Live-Inspired
  129. https://www.billboard.com/artist/godsmack/chart-history/mai/
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  131. https://www.lehighvalleynews.com/arts-culture/entertainment/rock-band-that-topped-charts-in-3-decades-coming-to-the-ppl-center
  132. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/three-singles-charts-remain-in-50-cents-club-71711/
  133. https://www.billboard.com/pro/godsmack-surrender-mainstream-rock-airplay-chart/
  134. https://blabbermouth.net/news/godsmacks-bulletproof-single-certified-platinum-in-u-s
  135. https://www.billboard.com/charts/billboard-200/2004-05-01/
  136. https://www.idobi.com/news/godsmack-impressed-by-fellow-grammy-nominees-linkin-park/
  137. https://www.kissrocks.com/lsp/artist/bio/godsmack/
  138. https://www.songfacts.com/facts/godsmack/i-stand-alone
  139. https://www.songfacts.com/facts/godsmack/straight-out-of-line
  140. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/r-kelly-destiny-mcgraw-lead-billboard-awards-77543/
  141. https://bostonmusicawards.com/bma/boston-music-awards-1999/
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  144. https://bostonmusicawards.com/bma/boston-music-awards-2002/
  145. https://bostonmusicawards.com/bma/boston-music-awards-2003/
  146. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1736225/awards/
  147. https://www.godsmack.com/latest-news/2020/1/16/zd5ypvy1tq9kfrwxw6iz0zz8l7d09t
  148. https://loudwire.com/godsmack-vs-five-finger-death-punch-cage-match/
  149. https://www.godsmack.com/latest-news/2020/10/1/bulletproof-goes-platinum-
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