Shinedown bassist Eric Bass announced via Instagram that he will sit out the opening dates of the band’s “Dance, Kid, Dance Act II” world tour. This decision follows a severe mental health crash that occurred a few weeks prior. In an emotional and candid video message, Bass revealed that he experienced what he described as a “pretty serious mental health crash” and determined that prioritizing his recovery was essential before returning to the road.
“I had a pretty serious mental health crash, I guess you could say, a few weeks ago,” Bass explained in his announcement. “I don’t really feel it’s the wise thing for me to do to go out on tour right now. I’ve debated whether or not to make this announcement at all and just not be there, then show back up when it’s time. But mental health being such a thing that I have championed, and the band has championed, I thought that it would be not the best look to maybe seem like I’m ashamed of it.”
The decision to step away marks a significant moment for the veteran musician, who has long been an advocate for mental health awareness within the rock community. Rather than disappearing from public view, Bass chose transparency. He recognized that his openness about the struggle could resonate with fans facing similar challenges. The band has arranged for temporary replacements Josh Sturm and Zack Mack to cover his live duties during his absence, ensuring that tour dates can proceed as scheduled.
Bass is currently undergoing treatment to address his mental health concerns. He is focusing on recovery through therapeutic intervention and professional support. He emphasized that seeking help was a pivotal moment in his life, describing it as something he had never done before in his fifty-one years. “I did something I’d never done before in my fifty-one years on Earth—I reached out to someone and said, ‘I can’t do this on my own and I need help.’ And it led to some healing that I’m going through right now,” he shared. “It’s not an easy thing to do, to ask for help, but it has to be done.”
The announcement comes as Shinedown prepares for their headlining summer North American tour, which represents a major commitment for the band. Bass’s decision to address his mental health before embarking on the grueling schedule of live performances reflects a growing awareness within the music industry about the importance of prioritizing personal wellbeing over professional obligations. The bassist expressed his frustration at missing the tour, acknowledging that the situation is difficult for him personally. “I wanna be out there. It’s killing me to not be there,” he stated, while emphasizing that ensuring his safety and stability must come first.
Bass has not provided a specific timeline for his return to touring with Shinedown. He indicated that he hopes to rejoin the band sooner rather than later, but only when he feels confident that he is in a stable place mentally and physically. The support from his bandmates and the arrangement of temporary replacements demonstrates the band’s commitment to both honoring their tour commitments and supporting their longtime bassist through this challenging period. Bass’s willingness to speak openly about his struggle continues Shinedown’s broader mission of destigmatizing mental health conversations within rock music and beyond.
