Monsters- Smith and Myers of Shinedown- Acoustic- December 2020

[@johnmitchell8770]

My wife and I were at this very show. During this monolog, I promise, there were hardly any dry eyes. Even if a person isn't struggling themselves, they know someone who is. Thank you Brent, Zack and all associated with Shinedown and Smith & Myers! Let's all have that awkward discussion with somebody! Want to make a difference in this world? Have that discussion!!!

[@chrisaskme811]

Yeah, who caress. Shut up.

[@vickirutherford1992]

Respect for sharing! I have a monster I deal with and it is nice to know I’m not alone!

[@vickirutherford1992]

@@chrisaskme811 you need to just STOP! I’m so glad ur life is so perfect u can’t relate

[@GR8K8]

Ok preach Jon bc Brent does these talks that just floor u and same experience. Knoxville (hometown) rescheduled same tour and same experience for daylight though us old heads list it for this and many other songs.

[@nicolefobare357]

Effin awesome!

[@trinasky4571]

This is a REMINDER to THOSE who are struggling and The Band is letting PEOPLE KNOW they ARE NOT ALONE 🕊️

[@randyrodriguez709]

This is why shinedown will forever hold a place in my heart

[@joesandysmokinjoesbeagles5862]

He is hands down one of the greatest voices in music today, glad he has battled his monsters and staying sober.

[@cheryldailing2439]

My favorite voice in rock. Saw them Wednesday. Best concert I've ever been to.

[@vtoriatorres_ma1668]

Absolutely!

[@sstrauss0127]

Todays time... its Brent Smith and Corey MF Taylor. Their range is amazing and absolutely are the best vocalist of our generation. These two rocl my sole to the core

[@angierodgers3839]

@@cheryldailing2439q

[@jeff1967ist]

Justin Furstenfeld is right there with him

[@mrheckles1972]

I face my Monsters , demons or whatever you want to call them , i no longer fear them. I have a healthy respect for my monsters that are caged up , knowing that its not impossible for them to resurface in my life. Its only by the grace of God that I am clean and sober , been sober from alcohol for 25 years and free of drugs for 23 years. I battled with prescription drugs..

[@lindacartwright5819]

You're not alone. You're stronger than you know. Good Luck and God Bless ❤

[@Irish-andreas]

Fair play to you.

[@ryang5842]

Tried to take my life a week ago today. Not my brightest moment. I was in a dark corner. I thank God for the officers that found me and the facility I ended up in. I always blamed it all on me. But it’s an illness and keeping those Monsters in a cage is the hardest thing I’ve ever done! Thank you for sharing your story brother!

[@shellystephenson4577]

So glad you were saved! God does want good for you!! You are not to blame and you are worthy of love! Don't look back....just keep moving forward....one day at a time. Surround yourself with good people and permeate your mind with good thoughts❤❤

[@VirginiaMarcum]

Glad you didn't take your life. There is a reason you didn't because God got plans for you.

[@Cololady-lovestoo]

So glad you are still with us… we all I think have the thought of “ I just want it over” but hang on better days will come…

[@VirginiaMarcum]

@Cololady-lovestoo glad you didn't take your life and I know how you feel. If it wasn't for my grandbabies I would of ended my life because of being mistreated by my ex. He always put me down and say his ex's are hot. Something I didn't want to hear all time. Now I put myself down all time and think I'm not good enough for anyone.

[@tracypeppers2739]

Hang in there!!! Keep coming back...

[@NeilAnderson-v3j]

Shinedown got me through the darkest part of my life. An amazing band that has such pure and real music!

[@victoriawilliams2786]

I don't say anything about it, but I've been sober for over two years, this time. And I listen to Smith & Myers and Shinedown almost every single day. They help!

[@dldanz]

Smith & Myers ..... if you have never listened to these guys perform - not just in the music that they play but the message that they share, you have never really listened and felt the soul that really goes into their songs. Not just this song (although this is one of their best heart felt songs) you have missed the opportunity of some real heal. Honestly ... I knew that this band (way back when) was one of the best I've ever heard - told all my friends (gosh, did I just miss my chance at a promoter job - LOL - I'm talking WAY back). In all honesty - these guys are the BEST. They are STILL the best. There is no other band that continues to amaze me. That (in it's self) is quite an accomplishment. To watch you grow has been an honor. Thank you.

[@bryanvs8599]

Brent, thank you. I just started turning my life around a year ago. Took me 2 different rehab trips. But 10 months later. Stronger than ever.

[@Scheib907]

Keep it brother 👊

[@bryanpedigo8545]

Hongh yeah!!!

[@vera2981]

Keep pushing brother you're going to help many people God bless you keep

[@alwayssme]

keep going forward! god bless

[@audreymontague4594]

Monsters.. the song that gives me the STRENGTH to stand Up to my depression, PTSD, and anxiety from a past of abuse. I AM A SURVIVVOR OF MONSTERS. THANK YOU FOR A GREAT SONG THAT EMPOWERS ME AND HELPS ME RELEASE THAT ANGER AND REMEMBER WHO THE HELL I AM. BLESS YOU ALL. ❤

[@kristifortney2831]

Amen. Wish the best for you. PTSD isn't fair on any weight. I'll pray for you and ask you do the same

[@audreymontague4594]

@@kristifortney2831 you got it! We gotta lift one another up. 👍❤️

[@wendysmero7730]

I have the same monsters years of drugs and men after my abuse. I still have one crutch weed and I’m working on that. 17 years clean from other stuff. Stay strong

[@sheilaanne375]

I'm proud of you Brent ❤️ Admitting that in front of that many people and the fact that your sober today is awesome and gives other's hope that They too can do it also!! Ive struggled in my life with it also, addiction definitely is a Monster that we'll have the rest of our lives!!! You're doing great 👍 Hang in there!! I think you are Awesome 😎😏🤓🤭🤠🤪🦋🏵️

[@derekbaggett2096]

Hell yeah

[@jasonyancura741]

It's hard to admit that we all deal with alot of dark stuff. This just is so true.

[@joshuashafer1545]

We as fans love him and are here for him as he is doing for us his speeches hit me hard the mental heath and monsters are real

[@joechapman2981]

I'm proud of u Sheila because ur proud of Brent. Ok. Nigh nite

[@nanci5088]

Very insightful, I'm 10 years sober and take it one day at a time, Thank you for being real. ❤

[@mistyblue5386]

He is so gifted. I saw them live last night. His lyrics are meaningful. It was the best concert you could imagine.

[@whitneyadams1741]

This slower version makes it more powerful. This was so inspiring.

[@aliciablanda2835]

My brother suffers from addiction and mental health issues. I bought him a Monsters t-shirt. A year later, I haven’t seen him not wearing it. Bought him a new one at the show in Baton Rouge. Obviously the song has special meaning for him.

[@chaffeecityusa1129]

I first heard this song 6 months ago, at rock bottom. It got way worse, but it made things change. Thanks to all the strong people out there. Not alone.

[@sabrinabriggs360]

Thank you Brent for saying that, I'm 13 years sober and even now my monsters are still there, I couldn't have said it better myself. Beautiful version of an amazing song. Taking that breath does help and 1 day at a time is a massive thing for the people in recovery. Respect to you and all your music xx

[@theodorewilliamdauterive332]

I'm a recovering alcoholic, been sober since 12/18/2023. Thank you so much for your voice. Every time I feel that call I lose myself in songs about addiction about recovery.

[@jessicamorrell4713]

Just thanked my creator for 19 years helping me keep my monsters respectfully caged.

[@queenmonique8355]

Thank you ✨ I got sober just before the world shut down in early 2020. Both kids were home full time, life was insane, my PTSD was out of control. But then I found this song, and many more of Brent's and others that helped me thru. Music truly was a life saver 🙌🏻. It was a struggle, but it wasn't impossible 💛

[@fa6106]

Amen 🙏 and keep up the good work! Monsters are real for a lot of us and Music IS the saving grace! Great Post!!

[@queenmonique8355]

@@fa6106 thank you ✨

[@debhunter2409]

This song is so real. People used varied substances as a way to hide and cover up emotions that are too much to feel. We used because it puts a short mask on the 'too much'. I work through my work to try to offer any and every support that I can to help US all feel better. Your songs are so TRUE in meaning. Thank You Deb. LMHC

[@lindasanders2615]

I wake up in a good mood everyday!! It's a new day, new start. Wish I'd figured that out in my 20s and 30s.. But I figured out a long time ago about lockimg all the bad things up in an impenetrable box tucked away in my memories vault., never to open. Ive learned to forgive myself and others, never forget or I learned nothing..Took almost 20 years... BUT I GOT THIS NOW!!

[@grahamsmith4781]

This song is helping me so much. I play it when I am driving or at home, playing loud and shouting the lyrics. I lost my wife to cancer 2 months ago. My monsters are the pain and the repeated waves of hurt from being without the love of my live. As Brett says, my monsters are real, and they know how to kill.

[@danielmurray1872]

These last few years, have been hell. for everyone... last year I ended up in the hospital after swallowing 3 months worth of medications. its taken me a while to understand this. to understand that the voice in my head, that "other guy" is me. accepting that, fuck i'm not even close. but trying. I will never forget. how quickly things went from feeling "ok" to feeling like the entire universe was caving in upon me, and how that seemed in the moment like the only logical option. thank you brent for sharing these thoughts and feelings. my own head, has always been my biggest enemy. Stay strong everyone and love eachother :)

[@ohiomusiclover1587]

This is why I love Brent Smith and Shinedown. ✌️❤️☀️⬇️

[@tommyprovence]

So real

[@mariancoloroso4492]

Omg...I LOVE that softened version. ❤

[@pennydilger2212]

I live in chronic pain and all I can say is on really bad days I plug in my ear buds turn on my favorite band and get lost in my music..thank you!

[@barbararichards7498]

I'm so happy for Shinedown and Brent. I have been clean from hard drug's for 5 years and 8 months now. When ever I feel like going back to my old ways I listen to them and I realize what I have now and I never want to go back to that life. Much love ❤️🤘🖤

[@brooketurner6912]

We r going on 4 and a half years sober from meth.....we went to your concert in Lincoln in 2018 I believe best by far concert I have ever been to u were just as open n vulnerable in this video as u were about the boy who lost his life to cancer n u gave him n his family a shout out n u sang get up for them I bawled I still have that video is something I look at when I have horrible days u always pull me thru

[@chrispatty8953]

His story mirrors mine. This version of the song hit me deep tonight! Thanks Brent and Shinedown. Stay strong if your struggling, one day, one hour, one minute at time, you can do anything for a minute!

[@nuttysp2]

i find it amazing how brent and zach can change their songs to adapt acoustic and they are still incredible

[@NeverlandSystemAngel]

This song literally changed my life. I was struggling big time with monsters- from childhood abuse- and just being able to say "my monsters are real" and accepting that... that changed my life... understanding and facing that... THAT is a powerful moment when you can realize that, and get to that point...

[@shyladallas5992]

I'm sober as well and have the same struggles as Brent. One of the many reasons I relate to his music and this album. This album is about recognizing the struggle and recovering from it and becoming the person you were meant to be!

[@reginarepp3639]

Brent, you are such an inspiration to us all! Your speech is going to help anyone struggling with addiction and also mental illness. Thank you for discussing your struggles so we know we’re not alone

[@jasonyancura741]

Everything that he just said is so true. I know. This is how i have felt for a long time.

[@MaryFerenczy]

I am glad Brent battled his monsters and is here on earth. The world would have missed out on this beautiful man with his beautiful voice. ❤

[@adamsherm29]

The 12 step program saved my life. January 12 2017 was the last time I took a drink and abused pills. Live listening to Brent talk about his journey. Makes me feel hopeful for everyone out there struggling during the fight. Stay on top and don't let anything drag you down

[@luckyduckboxbreaks561]

You still good?

[@adamsherm29]

Always good. Keeping my head clear and looking forward always! Thanks!!

[@BlueCurtainBurner]

What a powerful monolog and life altering song. I considered myself a casual fan until Attention Attention was released. Saw them live and man, I was and continue to be hooked. Wasn't long after that I sobered up and caged my monster where it remains locked. Not a day goes by that I don't think of letting it out, but luckily hardly a day passes that I'm not reminded of the potential destruction. Thanks for sharing this live version. Wife and I see Shinedown every time they are local now, but I look forward to an opportunity to see Smith & Myers. The acoustic versions are just so much more emotional.

[@robinquevedo4855]

You are never alone when you are struggling with things in your life no matter the situation. You have to let people in to help with the demons and monsters as hard as it is.

[@AmberEmberz]

Oh my… I’m in tears right now. Full faced tears, running down my shirt. Thank you for this. Thank you.

[@tammyboivin2167]

This goes right to my heart as I just lost my other half 5 myths ago and he so loved this song as his monsters were real and the monsters took him away way too soon .r.i.p. Clint grey...

[@dudleyedwards5232]

It takes monsters to destroy us but all it takes is for us to see our reflection in the mirror , and we can put thos monsters behind us .... thanks for being a platform user to share your stories cause our monsters are real and are truly trained to kill ...

[@inmon1717]

I will say one thing he is what has inspired me and keeps me going even when I fall back or relapse. The whole idea of our pain is our gift is what I am trying to live day by day for.

[@amandapoe2189]

I battle my monsters/demons everyday...it won't ever stop, just trying to make one day at a time 💜

[@Canikman05]

Brent apears to be a REAL HUMAN and a GTREAT talent. I sure hope he keeps fighting and we dont loose him like we have so many other great voices in my life time. Saw Shinedown in 2021 and became an even bigger fan after seeing then live.

[@tammyredshaw9161]

How are these guys not on the radio??!!!!????? I just found them and heard them for the first time!!!! They are AMAZING!!!!!

[@lisalockwood6648]

I'm so proud and inspired by you.. Seen Shinedown in Johnson City, TN and I've loved em since.. You got this Brent..

[@Firefighter724NC]

So sad I didn't get to catch that show at freedom hall.

[@mikkiearp4110]

Just one of the many reasons he will always remain my favorite !

[@bethanyandrade6316]

Hearing this makes the reason I fell in love with this song from the first time I heard it so clear! It is a story of where I am and where I am trying to be. Addiction, of any type , is a true monster! Thank you for being honest, and maybe helping some of us be honest with ourselves!

[@lisacain7724]

Thank you. Your songs are the only thing that saves me when I'm at the point of giving up.

[@micrmn004]

Stay strong, stay resolve, that day will come. I don't need to know you to care!. one more light-linkin park

[@lynneliason7013]

I had the privilege to see Shinedown in April. Portland Me. They were amazing and awesome and gave it their all!!! Every one of the band members! They are full of heart and soul!!!

[@lawrencehubbard2985]

I wish they would release a live album of Smith & Meyers. I have the album and the downloads but I don’t think I will ever get to see them live. The live versions of these songs would be amazing to set back close your eyes and open your mind.

[@darlacarlock3006]

Thank you for being so honest and vulnerable with us. My monster seeks to destroy my sense of self worth and brings me down no matter how hard I work. I also suffer from depression. This song resonates deep within me! You guys are amazing and powerful. Thank you!

[@karlahartford2319]

Keep fighting Darla!! I know it’s hard!! You just gotta keep fighting girl!!

[@jkmhlewis]

You are worth more than your mind tells you! Keep fighting against it!

[@99purrangel]

Very strong to admit, but so awesome. I've been sober for a year this month. Feels so great..Be Strong Stay Strong!!! Love 💘 this song 🎵

[@careybidwell4444]

Big respect for you Brett! My daughter battled addiction and beat it. She is 4 years clean now. Your music has helped me deal with her addiction.

[@Roadjamsessionswithjessica]

How could would it be if the world would listen to people struggling and not judge one another. The kind of people who could make a difference and use their fame to be the voice of so many unheard. My sweet B you are the voice of so many unheard. Keep advocating…..you may not save them all but if just one is touched by the messages you resonate into the universe. Then all will never be lost. I Love Shinedown and I Love You. I Have Loved watching the evolving of much beauty from the ashes that rise and I look forward to the future. With Love, Jessica

[@adamvanwagenen3394]

Love all of your music! Thank you for sharing your gift with the world! Your music has helped me get through some hard times, and I will never forget the concert in Iraq when you guys came and thrashed TQ!

[@Josh-z9n]

Hey guys I want to thank you for helping to save my life and countless others you are truly heroes and you will be forever in my heart true men of the people and bring this issue to the light and putting it out there so they have to listen you truly are saving people and you have a beautiful light that surrounds you and I believe if I would not have been st the concert in okc at zoo smp in September 2021 i would probably not be here to write this so i would like to say thank you for being a guiding light for lost souls brother

[@jessicalindsey2677]

He saved me with all of his music and his personality is beautiful

[@marypoling513]

From 1 addict/alcoholic to another;You are an inspiration to me & a whole lot of others in the world. Thank you for sharing your story, love this song, i can relate most definitely..drugs do kill. Nearly everyday someone overdoses on fentinal, sometimes they get narcan in time, alot dont have it. Its not my drug of choice, Thank God. The 1st week i quit everything;i prayed everyday,several times a day & i suffered no withdrawal symptoms at all! No joke. That gave me hope. Love all your music , think you are all amazing.Brent i could listen to your voice all day! Love the fact that you don't try to hide it, very brave of you to tell the world. You are right, its what makes us who we are & to learn from our mistakes!:❤😊

[@timothyrobinson6931]

I know how hard that is to stand in front of everyone and say I have a problem. I died once and almost died again. Heroin almost ended me. I haven't used in so long. #survivor #Undefeated believe that. My life is so much better. Mad respect.

[@shanewoods1980]

Man I gotta say I’ve seen you guys 4 times and I’m a veteran and I love you guys! I remember when they hung your banner upside down in tupelo ms years ago but this hits home I do appreciate it

[@andreagaydavis2117]

I instantly fell hard for Shinedown!!! I hope he continues to take good care of his fuckin' A awesome voice!! I'll never get tied of hearing all that passion his voice oozes😊keep on... keeping on...

[@shereegolden7677]

Well said Brent. Every time you share your experience strength and hope.. Someone heard their story. It took me 20 years to get 5 years.

[@joechapman2981]

Thank God he's sober we need him so much. Thanku

[@LucyLusmommy]

I'm speechless. Thank you for bearing your soul and blessing us with this song. ❤❤

[@junipertoby1812]

When yall came out with this song it really hit me Hard as cement, See I am a survivor of Sevier abuse, I chose to survive, and for me my monster is myself

[@scottcrawford7143]

Brent's words inspired me! I'm about to pour out what's left of this drink!

[@luckyduckboxbreaks561]

How's it going?

[@Mommy2Gav05]

FACTS BROTHER! Love this song love yall. So freaken proud of you brother! 4yrs Clean and Happily in Recovery with others fighting to keep their demons caged like us. Thanks for putting it into words the way I never could!

[@Justfor2day10]

25 years clean from alcohol and drugs. People use because they don’t know how to function in society with the trauma they’ve endeared through life. For those who are suffering don’t EVER give up! 🙏🏼✌🏼🤘🏼

[@lynsiechase9869]

Your shadow is your friend It reminds you your alive Even in darkness It's always by your side It is your soul projected in the light Your shadow may follow but it is your guide It may not weep but it feels your pain See your shadow is you all the same It dances with you and celebrates your joy Your shadow is your friend Not some kind of toy Even in the darkness Its always by your side Your shadow is constant It's your soul projected in the light Your shadow is the one thing you can never hide Your shadow is like having god with you at all times

[@ericsimak7391]

The best band period!

[@seanirons4910]

Chills everytime I listen. Heroin is my monster 18 yrs now clean

[@lauriemariemolleur3770]

Awesome & Amazing version of song.. and I cry every single time I listen to it. Good cleaning the soul tears! ☮️💜

[@robinquevedo4855]

I absolutely love this song! One of the best ballads that they created. ❤

[@bobbarnett8836]

Very inspiring and constructive Brent, particularly as my own monsters sometimes play me like a fool. Within me are many rooms. Some of which I seldom enter, as the winds are fierce in there

[@natalieboswell4263]

I so understand this. Those rooms suck you inside, no keys in sight. How to get out each time because you have to find a new way out each time. I feel so trapped right now and nobody ever comes to save me. You have such strength Bob

[@EmalitJean_LadyUnicorn]

@@natalieboswell4263 You're stronger than you give yourself credit for hun... You've fought many battles to still be here with us cause you've NEVER given up the fight... Continue to fight hun you've got many who are rooting for you 💜💜💜 (ps If you need someone to reach out to please feel free to get ahold of me anytime)

[@EmalitJean_LadyUnicorn]

@BOB BARNETT Howdy friend... I just wanted to thank you for your post cause you're inspiring as well as Brent is... Fighting any form of monster isn't easy and I'm glad that you've continued to whip yours, that shows your bravery and courage... Please continue to fight the good fight my friend cause the world would be alot less bright without the strength that folks like you show everyday... Blessings always ❤️❤️❤️

[@lindadoskus7710]

I'm in a year program right now. I need things like this

[@stephaniepizzini7835]

Thank you for this song. Ive always known itt was about addiction and the monsters that go with. I struggle every day with the monsters and damn thay are for real

[@Noe_The_light_wins777]

Galatians 6:8 says, "Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life". This verse clarifies the universal principle that people reap what they sow in life, in the context of the Spirit of God

[@dimbymaharoratsimaholyrabe9610]

That is what make this song a REALLY GREAT SONG !

[@cherraleegiles9916]

Thankyou my hubby not well. For your musivand sweet true words healing

[@bgfree1965]

People that have never struggled with addiction have no idea about those those demons. I still struggle at 57 at times I just want to close my eyes and never wake up.

[@christophersallee7904]

I needed this. Ive lost too many loved ones to their monsters and struggle with mine on a daily basis.

[@sherristevens3972]

So proud of you!! Once we admit it outlook that our monsters are real, things are so much better. God bless you 🙏

[@robertguay3773]

It's his brother and the band dragging him out of the gutter and thank god they do. seen the band only 1 time live and it was amazing. life is not so bad it sucks for all of us but we chug along. this to will heal and we all will be better off in the future.

[@kellynivens1493]

What I love about @Brent Smith.. ❤❤❤❤

[@charbarr746]

I love that you share this to let people know that they are not alone xoxo!! I am over 7mo clean God is good Never Alone Never again 💜

[@Terri-vi5qb]

My husband's monsters got the best of him! 🙏 Would love to see Shinedown in concert! S. MN, N. IA,

[@TheDexecutioner]

Really beautiful version. Got so much respect for this guy, just a genuine person.

[@cheryldailing2439]

Saw them Wednesday for the first time. Hands down BEST CONCERT EVER ❤❤❤

[@joshuashafer1545]

What I know about you is you have a power to change lives so we are here to talk about it for you and the love we carry for you guys it will always be open arms from us your music had change my darkest days in my life I will and can admit that because I'm strong and my monsters are real

[@brettash7640]

This song and band have always meant so much to me in my life. It's like they've evolved around the same time I did during periods of my life. Like they wrote each album for exactly what I was going through at that time.

[@rubybonds5086]

I love this band they got me though some hard times in my life I'm greatful 🙏

[@teresaengberg5609]

Brent thank you for support people who are going through difficult times and take the time to check into somewhere gets some help

[@cc5454]

Freaking phenomenal. I love them so much. 💕

[@terryjean91565]

I so love this man and his heart❤

[@sherryoliver7585]

This touches my soul and has really helped me to try to heal from the past. God bless you and keep on rocking

[@theresaadams8858]

Greatly enjoyed

[@kwildernurse]

Overcoming monsters is the ultimate living 🥰

[@cleberpassanante5045]

I wish we could see Shinedown doing some colabs with Alter Bridge. Would love to see Myles and Brent singing together