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Backing Tracks in Concert: Zach Myers of Shinedown Responds


In the dynamic landscape of the modern rock and metal music scenes, one of the most contentious discussions revolves around the use of backing tracks during live performances. In a recent interview with American Musical Supply, Shinedown‘s guitarist, Zach Myers, passionately defended the practice, citing a legendary rock band as a prime example of its validity.

Zach Myers Shares Insight on Backing Tracks Usage

During a conversation with AMSRyan Dacey at the annual Welcome to Rockville festival, Myers discussed various topics including his signature PRS guitar, the creative process behind Shinedown‘s setlists, and his experiences as a father. Early on, he addressed how Shinedown abandoned click tracks, mentioning, “There are certain songs that we still perform because we utilize string tracks and similar elements.”

In response, Dacey remarked, “To reproduce something that was essentially perfect in the studio, you need to deliver a strong representation without it being an exact replication.”

“Absolutely!” Myers affirmed, elaborating:

“There’s a common misconception about bands that use backing tracks. It’s become a trend for some groups to boast about performing without them. [Myers looks into the camera] But let’s be real! If Queen utilized them, then it’s perfectly acceptable. Fans want to experience the orchestral elements in songs like ‘Second Chance,’ and I don’t see the harm in that. However, if a band is running vocals and instruments while not actually playing, that’s where I draw the line. People tend to think that when we use tracks, it means we’re not performing live. But everything you hear is from us unless it’s a cello or violin.”

For the complete interview with AMS, which was uploaded to their YouTube channel on June 20, check out the video below.

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We’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you align with Myers’ perspective, completely disagree, or find yourself somewhere in the middle?

Zach Myers Discusses Backing Tracks and More with American Musical Supply

READ MORE: 6 Major Highlights from Welcome to Rockville 2025

Myers' Previous Views on the Use of Backing Tracks

In a previous discussion on The Jeremy White Show in 2024, Myers shared his insights on the topic of backing tracks, explaining [as transcribed by Blabbermouth]:

“We’ve never been a band that heavily relies on tracks, but because we discuss them, some people think we do. Here’s the reality: those who criticize this practice may have valid points. If there’s a guitar solo happening and the guitarist isn’t actually playing, that’s dishonest. If someone pretends to play the piano without actually producing sound, I agree with the criticism. We use tracks simply to enhance our performance without needing to hire additional band members. I wouldn’t want to juggle playing a xylophone while also managing the guitar. I can — I do it on ‘State Of My Head.’”

Continuing his thoughts, he elaborated [via Blabbermouth]:

“There are effective methods to incorporate tracks without compromising the essence of the band’s dynamic. I don’t fault the older generation of musicians who oppose this practice. It’s interesting that Eddie Trunk, a fan of bands like Def Leppard and Kiss, doesn’t criticize them for using tracks. In fact, Def Leppard and Queen were pioneers in this approach. Honestly, if you’re paying to experience a show that’s entirely reliant on tracks, I agree that’s disappointing. You might as well attend a play instead. However, I challenge critics like Eddie Trunk to come to one of our shows, wear in-ear monitors, and mute the tracks. They wouldn’t notice any difference. Our tracks have failed during performances, and the audience remains oblivious. We’ve successfully completed numerous shows despite technical issues.”

Exciting Developments from Shinedown

Earlier this year, Shinedown released two new singles, “Dance, Kid, Dance” and “Three Six Five,” which are part of their upcoming album, a follow-up to 2022’s Planet Zero. They also kicked off their 2025 tour with a spectacular performance back in April.

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Additionally, Shinedown secured a spot on our list of 6 Major Highlights from Welcome to Rockville 2025 by bringing out guitarist Rickey Medlocke and vocalist Johnny Van Zant for their renowned rendition of Lynyrd Skynyrd‘s “Simple Man.” Medlocke initiated the song while Van Zant delivered the lead vocals before Shinedown joined in.

Exploring the Backing Tracks Controversy

The debate surrounding the use of backing tracks continues to ignite discussions among artists and fans alike. Many musicians, from both inside and outside the industry, have shared their perspectives on the advantages and disadvantages of this practice.

For example, Sebastian Bach expressed to Ultimate Classic Rock in 2021: “There will come a time when bands relying solely on tracks will have to perform authentically, and audiences will recognize the difference. Real musicians evoke emotions far more powerfully than those merely miming to a recorded track.”

In contrast, Nikki Sixx, bassist of Motley Crue, tweeted in 2019: “We’ve embraced technology since 1987. We’ve used sequencers, sub tones, backing vocal tracks, and even background singers. We enhance our sound with elements that can’t be replicated live, like cello parts in our ballads. Just like NIN and others, we love it and are transparent about our use of these tools.”

Several bands, including Shinedown, Falling in Reverse, W.A.S.P., and Fozzy, have admitted to incorporating backing tracks into their performances. However, in 2023, Mudvayne frontman Chad Gray bluntly referred to the widespread use of backing tracks as an “epidemic” in the industry, explaining how his band maintains their studio-like quality on stage without resorting to this controversial technology.

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“We brought in a utility player — someone genuinely contributing to the performance. He’s not just a backup; he’s actively singing and playing guitar,” Gray stated, referring to his friend and guitar tech Marcus Rafferty. “Our music is fundamentally honest, and it must be performed that way. I don’t care if critics have negative opinions about our approach with Marcus. This is our solution to ensuring authenticity in an era where many bands have strayed from this commitment.”

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Contributions by Rabab Al-Sharif (RA), Chad Childers (CC), Joe DiVita (JD), and Lauryn Schaffner (LS).

Gallery Credit: Loudwire Staff

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Sarah Parker is a research analyst and content contributor with a strong interest in business strategy, organizational behavior, and social development. With a background in sociology and public policy, she focuses on exploring the intersection between research and real-world application. Sarah regularly contributes articles that bridge academic insights and practical relevance, aiming to foster critical thinking and innovation across sectors.