In Greek mythology, Atlas holds the celestial sphere on his shoulders – but if he happens to slip, rockers Shinedown want to assure the world that we can hold each other up in trying times like these. To that end, the Florida band’s previously unreleased song “Atlas Falls” speaks to our ability to rally during times of crisis. “During the writing and recording of the Amaryllis album there was a song that meant a great deal to me and the band titled ‘Atlas Falls.’ Although the song did not make the album, I always felt that one day the world would hear it,” says frontman Brent Smith. “It has never been clearer to me than right now that the time has come for ‘Atlas Falls’ to arrive.”
The band is donating the proceeds from the song and their new t-shirt to the nonprofit humanitarian aid organization Direct Relief, which provides protective equipment and essential medical items for those on the frontlines of the pandemic. In just one week, Shinedown has raised $120,000 for Direct Relief, including the $20,000 they donated.
“I have always said and believe to be true that music can heal us all. We need music, and each other, now more than ever as we all are witnessing a global pandemic unlike anything we have ever seen in many generations,” Smith says. “Myself, Barry, Zach, Eric, and our Shinedown family want the entire world to know that we are in this together, and we must all do our part and continue to encourage love, respect and taking care of each other. Now is the time to put our differences aside so that we can truly lift each other up. We have partnered with an incredible organization Direct Relief who are doing important work globally to help the medical community receive the resources they need in order to save lives.”
Additionally, to help keep you occupied while you’re practicing social distancing in order to stop the spread of the coronavirus and save lives, Brent Smith created a special quarantine playlist. Check out his recommendations below.
1. “Atlas Falls” by Shinedown
We recently made this song available for download with the purchase of the “Atlas Falls” T-shirt with 100% of proceeds going to Direct Relief, an amazing non-profit humanitarian aid organization working to provide essential personal protective items (like masks, gloves and gowns) to health workers caring for COVID-19 patients. This song was written during our sessions for Amaryllis, and while it didn’t make the album, I always felt really strongly about this song. Little did we know, eight years later, it would be so necessary. It’s a song that speaks to the times and hopefully inspires us to come together. It’s a tough time for everyone right now, but we must stay optimistic and know that we are going to get through this.
2. “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
Honestly no matter what generation you’re from this song just makes you feel better when you listen to it. It’s a very encouraging song.
3. “With a Little Help From My Friends” by Joe Cocker
I grew up watching a television show called The Wonder Years, and this was the theme song. When I listen to it today it just reminds me of simpler times but it always makes me smile.
4. “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish
Since we’re all in self-quarantine this is the song that I put on when I get a little stir crazy. It’s goofy, it’s silly, it’s also absolutely genius.
5. “School’s Out” by Alice Cooper
I feel like this one might be self-explanatory.
6. “BEAST” by Nico Vega
Interesting because the song is about seven years old, but there was a Netflix film that was recently released called Spenser Confidential, and I hadn’t heard this song in years and it’s part of the soundtrack, and I honestly had just forgotten how badass this track is. I highly recommend it.
7. “Who Made Who” by AC/DC
Without a doubt my favorite song by this legendary group. Even to this day when this song comes on it really just gets me excited, and puts me in a good mood, and helps me get focused.
8. “Mad World” by Gary Jules
A lot of people have mixed emotions about this song. I find it to be reassuring and calming. I’ve always enjoyed this song when I was in moments of meditation, and reflection, and when you are self-quarantined these kinds of songs are very important for relaxing.
9. “Stranded” by GOJIRA
Let’s face it. Sometimes you have just got to rage. I love this band, I admire this song. It is just so intense, yet melodic and 1,000% awesome.
10. “Bulls on Parade” by Rage Against The Machine
Speaking of rage, I feel like this song should be in everybody’s top 10 playlist…period.
11. “Cleopatra” by The Lumineers
It’s tough for me to pick a favorite from The Lumineers but this one would have to probably be at the top of the list. And also for whatever reason during these times of self-quarantine this seems to continuously be popping up on my shuffle playlist.
