On October 6, 2024, four powerful bands came together, united in mental health awareness, jam-packed set lists, and harmonies made for the heavens. Rising country star, Royale Lynn set the tone for the night with her song “Death Wish,” which is dedicated to first responders. Without hesitation, Royale Lynn opened up to the audience about her struggles with mental health. “I have a dark heart,” she says, as she led the audience into a stunning cover of Flyleaf’s “All Around Me.” She also claims she wrote the heaviest country song, just for it to be played on rock radio. Regardless, I think she is truly shining on stage, and she is living out her wildest dreams.
ROYALE LYNN | WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE
The second performing act of the night was another country artist, Tim Montana. Tim’s rugged, mountain-man sound echoed throughout the theatre with his original song “Die Today,” which is also about first responders and veterans. Seeing so much love and support for those who risk their lives every day for our freedoms, truly was heart-warming to witness. Tim ended his set, with “The Devil You Know,” accompanied by Royale Lynn.
TIM MONTANA | WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | X | FACEBOOK
Seether has always been on my playlist, however, I have never seen them live. I have been missing out! Their sound was engineered so well, their set list was everything I was hoping to hear and more, and they have remained loyal to their fans over the years. “Broken,” “Fake It,” and “Remedy” are my personal favorite songs from Seether. Thankfully, I got to enjoy all three songs (thanks, guys)!
SEETHER | WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK
This was my fifth time seeing Skillet, and my third time photographing them. I have never seen them play a bad show nor have a bad attitude about anything. Skillet always enters the stage with smiles, and leaves with laughter and joy. I, too, have grown as a photographer with every opportunity I am blessed with when it comes to capturing the essence of their show.
When I was around 12 years old (and going through some rough pre-teen things), I distinctly remember my father telling me that I could not listen to any rock music. Aerosmith? No. Rolling Stones? Absolutely not. Of course, I would listen to these bands any ways, but when I came across Skillet’s song “Monster,” I could not get enough of this sound. I was naive to how great music can be while sending a bright, positive message at the same time. It’s safe to say that I am beyond grateful for what Skillet has done for me and many, many others across the world with their positive, dynamic, and powerful music.
Frontman, John Cooper, continues to spread a favorable message that we were not created to be divided, but to be united. “There are some people in our government who want us to hate each other. But I say, let’s rise against the hate through rock and roll, and let’s stick together,” just to paraphrase. I fully agree with everything Skillet has to say, what they stand for and who they stand for. They will forever have a special place in my heart.
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