SHINEDOWN reveal “Searchlight”

Today, Shinedown, one of the world’s biggest rock bands, released their brand new single “Searchlight” via Atlantic Records. The song marks the beginning of a new era for the multi-platinum band and comes after a groundbreaking year that included sold-out arenas, record-breaking chart success, and a historic debut at the Grand Ole Opry.

The song was first performed live last month during the band’s Opry debut at the legendary venue. The song became the most talked-about moment of the evening. Frontman Brent Smith introduced the song to the audience with the following words: “Sometimes when you listen close enough to the universe and you’re willing to receive something from it – a song can come out of thin air. We didn’t find this one, it found us.”

Brent Smith on the new single: “Searchlight is a song about owning your true feelings. It’s an awakening of the soul. Lyrically, it’s a coming-of-age story that celebrates the moment you decide to go out into the world and find your purpose. Musically, it’s an homage to all the music our parents and grandparents raised us on. It is a love letter to Americana, Rhythm and Blues, Bluegrass, Outlaw Country, and of course Rock ‘n’ Roll. The creative process for this song was quite a journey, and we hope all the “Fans/Family” feel that authenticity in every note, and every word.”

“Searchlight” was written by Brent Smith, Eric Bass, and Dave Bassett and produced by Eric Bass at his Big Animal Studio in Charleston, South Carolina. The song combines the emotional depth and anthemic power that characterizes Shinedown, while adding new sonic elements that are worthy of the Opry stage. The accompanying music video by Andrew Donoho features each band member playing their instrument, including a steel pedal guitar and a banjo. The video was shot in Nashville, Tennessee, the day after their Opry debut. It showcases the band’s live performance and the emotional intensity of the song.

Brent says of the music video: “We needed the video to be artistic, but also to showcase a visual epiphany. This was our very first time working with director Andrew Donoho, and to his credit, there was a different treatment in the beginning, to which I asked, ‘could we think a bit more outside the box?’ (You’ll understand the reference when you see the video.) Andrew didn’t miss a beat and told me and the band absolutely, let’s find something that is true to the song and also represents the band in the most honest way possible. In our opinion, he was able to capture the essence of the song by using practical effects and smart camera work. We hope everyone enjoys the video as much as we enjoyed making it.”

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/PlpizmppUCY?si=JWfdzjBvFhipovBV