Thin Lizzy band photo

Jason Newsted Rocks the Stage with Blackberry Smoke: A Metal Legend's Return

By Jason •
The former Metallica bassist teams up with country rock titans for a memorable night of music.

In a stunning convergence of genres, former METALLICA bassist Jason Newsted took the stage with the acclaimed Atlanta-based country rock band BLACKBERRY SMOKE on July 9 at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater in Wilmington, North Carolina. The duo delivered a rousing rendition of THIN LIZZY's classic anthem 'Jailbreak,' a moment captured by fans whose cameras couldn't quite contain the raw energy of the performance.

The appearance came just days after Newsted and his band THE CHOPHOUSE BAND launched their inaugural North American headlining tour, kicking off on July 1 at the Iron Horse Music Hall in Northampton, Massachusetts. Over the course of this 18-date run, they’ll hit key markets across the South, Midwest, and East Coast, culminating with a two-night stand at the iconic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on July 24-25.

Newsted's current lineup for THE CHOPHOUSE BAND includes a roster of seasoned musicians, featuring Jesse Farnsworth on guitar and vocals, Jimbo Hart on bass and vocals, Humberto Perez on guitar, and Robert John-Tucker on drums and vocals. This diverse crew is not just about jamming; they’ve been honing their craft through rigorous rehearsals, gearing up to unleash a blend of original tracks and covers that pay homage to their musical icons.

In a recent candid interview, Newsted expressed that his return to the stage is driven by pure passion rather than profit. “I’m doing it for the fun,” he declared. “I’m not making any money on any of this. I’m just doing it because I want to do it with some friends.” This refreshing perspective offers a glimpse into the heart of a musician who values connection over cash, eager to reignite bonds with fans and fellow artists alike.

When discussing his collaboration with BLACKBERRY SMOKE, Newsted emphasized the mutual respect and shared love for music that defines their tour. “It’s an honor to head out on the road with the BLACKBERRY crew for our first proper run,” he said. “We’ll be performing THE CHOPHOUSE BAND originals, but you can bet we’ll keep the set heavy.” Fans can expect the gritty essence of outsider Americana that THE CHOPHOUSE BAND embodies, with influences spanning bluegrass, soul, and even some of that unmistakable metal edge.

Though he stepped away from METALLICA in 2001, Newsted continues to be a titan in the music scene, having been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2009. After a short-lived heavy metal project, NEWSTED, which he shelved due to the unforgiving music industry, he’s back at it with THE CHOPHOUSE BAND, proving that real passion for music never truly fades. As summer heats up, fans should brace themselves for an electrifying ride as Newsted and his comrades bring their eclectic sound to the masses.