HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BRENT!

From your Shiney Family on Brent Smith The Sound of Madness page

Our Dearest Brent, There are so many ways that your music, your INCREDIBLY AMAZING voice, your soul and your spirit have touched so many of us. In honor of your birthday, we would like to share with you the ways that you have changed, and sometimes saved, our lives.

You have inspired me like no one has ever been able to! You have encouraged me to open my heart and my soul to all the love and support that surrounds me, and for me to be more welcoming and inviting to anyone who needs it. While Im not fearless, I am much more willing to take a chance, to go out on a limb, to refuse to let self-doubt or fear stop me from doing whatever I want to do, go wherever I want to go, be whoever I want to be. I am being true to myself again, which is something I had stopped doing for a very long time, without even realizing it. I am following my dreams, and encouraging others to do the same - telling them if its something that they feel passionate about, if it means something to them, then do it! You have inspired me to want to be an inspiration - I want to do great things by doing what I love, by doing things that mean something to me, and hoping that others will want to follow my lead, the way you have encouraged me to follow yours There are many Shinedown songs that make me cry, that make me think about things in ways I never have before. Somehow though, the tears that fall feel right and good, because its coming from you. Its coming from the emotional honesty and passion that you share with the world, by telling us things we need and want to hear, and by putting everything youve got into it. You make it possible for me to feel things from deep within, all the way from the very core of my heart, spirit and soul. There have been many trials and tribulations Ive been going through with my son, and your music and positive outlook are helping me get through it, and keep moving forward without being completely consumed by it. I dont feel quite as lost as I used to.I wont always know exactly which path to follow, but I know where Im going and I will still manage to get there. All while listening to Shinedown, so you will be with me every step of the way Each one of you Brent, Barry, Zach and Eric are amazing and wonderful, through and through! Thank you for helping me reinvent myself ~~ for that I will be eternally grateful. I hope you have an Amazing Birthday! You deserve only the best, for you have given us nothing less.

Heather Myers / @niteowl46060

Brent, From the moment I heard your version of Simple Man, I was sold! Your passionate, powerful wails give me chills even before I know the lyrics, and NO ONE else does that to me! Choosing only one of your songs as my favorite would be like choosing my favorite child. Ill Follow You and What a Shame both bring me to my knees! Having been addicted to pain pills for 14 years, then losing my sister to an overdose Save Me is extremely personal to me and watching you sing it.there is simply not another artist anywhere who moves me like you do with those beautifully and powerfully belted lyrics! I finally saw you guys live in Arkansas this past August, and shortly thereafter was compelled to open this fan page, Brent Smith The Sound of Madness. Im so grateful that you were gifted The Dukes of Hazzard 45 album, and I envy you in knowing so young what you were born to do! You are my SunSHINE! Happy Birthday, Brent, and Loud Love to you and yours always! PS see you March 13th!

Carmen Webb

I cant say how much I love Shinedown! Not only do they put out great music, but what makes them all even more amazing is how well they treat their fans. Each one of the guys is always polite and you just get a good vibe when you meet them, that they are good people. I havent really been able to relate so much lyrically with a band before, than I have with these guys. Its one of those instances when you hear a song and it says exactly what you wanted to, but couldnt say it or just couldnt find the right words to say it. You feel like there is someone else who understands how you feel in some cases, too, when you think nobody else really could. Brent, Zach, Eric and Barry definitely dont get the credit they deserve because they are an awesome group and do amazing work. Im proud to say I am a Shinedown fan forever and will always support these guys. Happy Birthday Brent! We love you and hope you have a great day! Happy Unbirthday to Zach, Eric and Barry! Lol Much love to you guys!

Abby Onstott / @sweet_girl_abby

Brent, You are amazingly talented. Every time you sing you give me goose bumps. You have been my all-time favorite artist since you first came out. Your songs help me get through a lot. Bully reminds me of some stuff I went through in school, and Miracle explains my life right now. I love how every song tells a story. Plus, I met you at Uproar 2012 in Detroit and I like how you care about your fans and are really sweet. Some artists I met were rude, so I really appreciate it. I cant wait to see you when youre back in the Detroit area! You definitely put a smile on my face every time I hear your music! I hope you have a terrific birthday! All my love, Julie.

Julie Petit / @Broken2089

I would like to wish a Very Happy Birthday to the extremely talented and handsome Brent Smith. I wish I could tell you exactly how much I admire your perseverance in continuing your dreams through many obstacles and your previous addiction. You have stated in previous interviews that it has always been your desire to sing with depth and conviction, so as listeners, we believe what you are singing. You have mastered that goal completely, in my humble opinion. Two of the most valued songs for me, in the current Shinedown library, are Shed Some Light and For My Sake, although all 4 albums are dear to my heart. Whenever I listen to your beautiful voice, it always changes my mood and triggers an uplifting emotional response. And thats the whole idea of music ~ to make you feel something. I absolutely love the fact that you, Barry, Eric and Zach are truly genuine in your promotion of Shinedown and your interactions with fans. So thank you for that, and in closing, I want to say that the 3 times I have seen you in concert have been 3 of the happiest days of my life! Enjoy your special day Brent ~ Best Wishes and Much Love!!!!

Jodell Jody Platzer / Kiki6410 (Jodell)

Krystal Leaper / @krys2488

Tattoo For Brent, Barry, Eric and Zach No sharpened point need pierce this flesh, No ink need stain this skin, For deep where heart and senses mesh, A tattoo lies within. Beneath the layers of this soul, Crept words and beats and tones, To leave their mark so deep and bold, Neath blood and chiseled bone Its rhythms poured where heartache dwelled, Healed all the hurt and grief, Through anger, pain, through fear and hell, Your music brings relief Each not became a refuge true, Each lyric dried my tears, Your every song became the glue, Thats held me through the years. The music is a part of me, Each note and beat a stain, Below the flesh where none can see, Forever its ingrained. So deep inside it left its mark, Your music makes me whole, Its not just written on my heart, But tattooed on my soul.

Tami Sandlin / @CrueangelluvsSD

I could go on for days about how your voice and your band have brought back the meaning and sound of music! Brent, you are so Amazing, and just the sound of your voice travels further into my soul than any other!!! Every single song hits home in one way or another, and I thank you for sharing your gift with the world.I seriously dont know where I would be today without your words and voice! It satisfies my soul and takes me to higher places I never thought I would go! Here is to a Rockin Birthday and Yearyou deserve the best and all the happiness your heart can hold! God Bless and please hurry back to Salt Lake City, UT best show I have ever seen! Peace and Love for your special day xoxoxo

This pic is of me, my son and grandson...3 generationsthats right - I brought up my kids and grandkids to rock out with G-Ma LOL! Connie Grow Carlin

Shinedown is my favorite band ever. They helped me and my family through the hardest times of our lives the passing of my 28 year old son. Brent is the best Front man / Singer / Songwriter. Every song has meaning.

Billy Croffwell

When I heard Brent for the first time, it had happened to me! From that moment on, I dont want to hear anything else! That was like a click in my head. I love the lyrics so much and my favorite song is Burning Bright! I saw Shinedown last October again, and the matter of fact: All that I can say Im hopelessly devoted to SHINEDOWN!

AngiShinedownDoe / @AngiShinedownDoe

I have to say! Shinedown has done more for me than any one person. In my darkest hours, all I need to do is turn your music on, and my problems become manageable. When my mom passed away in August, you guys kept a smile on my face. Brent your voice, the words you sing seem like an echo of my soul. Happy Birthday, and thank you for all you do, have done, and will go on to do.

Cait Panczner / @shinedowngrl89

Happy Birthday! Shinedowns music means the world to me and it helps me deal with all the crap life throws at us. I saw Shinedown twice last year and love you even more! Keep up the awesome music!

Jennifer Onstott / @jlohuntergreen

Happy Birthday Brent! You have come a long way.you truly are an inspiration. Such a beautiful soul. Your music lives inside of me and always will. Big love to you. Xoxo

Jennifer Majzcak

My favorite band! Their music gives me chills. I met them in Bismarck on my birthday and had my picture taken with them. Ill always remember that they took the time for me. Thanks Brent, Happy Birthday! Give Zach Sweet Face a hug for me thanks for the great music!

Sherri Fine

Shinedown is the reason why Im alive right now. They helped me get through my problems when no one else could. Brent, you have the most amazing voice ever, and you put so much into every song. Happy Birthday, Brent Smith!!! You deserve it!

Shawna Proctor

Happy Birthday Brent! May your life be filled with happiness, joy and love. You have brought all that to my life and I can only hope you receive it as well. Many blessings to you.

Wendy Quinn / @SDLuvr

Happy Birthday Brent! May your day be as awesome as you are..love your music. Its gotten me through so many stressful days and just as many broken hearts. Keep doing what you do and may all your birthday wishes come true!

Amanda Sue Robinson / @blueeyedbaby78

Thank you sooo much from the bottom of my heart for everything you, Zach, Eric, Barry and Jake have done for me over the years. You guys really have helped me deal with my friend passing away a year ago, and I thank you guys sooo much for that. If it wasnt for the songs If You Only Knew and Second Chance, I probably would still be grieving a year later. You guys mean everything to me and I love you all so much.

Katie McElligott / @ItsKatieBaby29

Brent, you are my biggest hero and you saved me from my deep depression. Thank you and Happy Birthday!

Kallie Ann Cummings / @MY_SHINEDOWN

For starters Happy Birthday Brent! But now this is what Id really like to say..I know a lot of people say your music means everything to me, but in my case, it truly does. I had the opportunity to meet you guys in Cleveland at the Carnival of Madness. I had ordered VIP tickets, but never received them like I was supposed to. But thanks to Nique the photographer, who was able to get a hold of you and Barry and tell you about the situation, you gave me and my friend Jen each a VIP pass for the show. I was and am forever grateful for what you did! Just a month before, I had lost my boyfriend / best friend at the time, to suicide. My world and heart were shattered at that point, and I didnt know where to even begin to gather the pieces of my broken heart, but your words helped heal me in so many ways. When I felt like I had no words to express my feelings or emotions, you always took the words right out of my mouth and spoke louder than I ever could. I remember the night of the concert, you sang The Crow and the Butterfly. Something happened that night there was no breeze in the air that night until that song. You began to sing and instruments began to play and suddenly it was like everyone at the venue disappeared and you were singing to just me. A huge gust of fresh, cool air blew across my face and I knew at that point my David was there with me. So in memory of him I now have the words your words still serenade me tattooed on my leg along with crows and the S for my favorite song, favorite lyrics, and favorite moment I have shared with you and the band. Most people have a hard time dealing with the passing of a loved one, but me.I listen to this song with a smile on my face and cherish the moments I have had and shared with you, the band, and my man Davidand will always keep this memory close in my heart and in my mind. You are truly an amazing man that has overcome so many obstacles in life, and now I have faith that I can too!! Much love and wishing you a Very Happy Birthday! xoxo

Amanda Oeler Burkholder / Manders / shinedownfrenzy

~~Brent~~ Since the first day I heard Shinedown on the radio and the first time I met you April 3rd, 2004you have been the biggest inspiration in my life. After 44 showsyour music has helped me through so much, and when Ive needed you as a friend, you were there. When I lost both my parents and my grandpa all within 17 months, you and the rest of the guys in Shinedown were there to help me through everything. Without your inspiration and dedication to your music, I wouldnt be here today telling you how much you mean to me. Over the years you have been like a big brother and Im proud to say that no matter what, I will always stand by your side now and forever. Hope you have an amazing birthdayyou deserve all the happiness in the world!! Much love to you!!

~~Lisa Marie~~ @sinnerwithagrin

The lyrics of Shinedown songs have all touched my heart and mean a great deal to me. They encourage me and I love them all like brothers!

BeckyShinedownAddict / @ShinedownAddict

Brent, my wishes are to allow yourself to accept the love these birthday wishes bring, and that you so freely give. I am the mother who lost her son to suicide one hour after we had an argument. Through the channeling of The Crow and the Butterfly, he let me know it was not my fault and that he was ok. I was then given permission to go on. In fact, thats what he wanted me to do, and that one day, when the time is right, we will see each other again. What an emotional song for us all! We met in Charlotte, NC - VIP! Five years to the week, the grief of Drews suicide led to the death of Drews stepfather, in the same way, the same place, both killed by train. Our channeling continues on. You are an Amaryllis to us all. So much love to you for giving so many of us hope. We are to meet again in Knoxville - VIP - February 10th, but my job may prohibit my trip. Got my tickets yesterday. Always there in spirit. Until then, its not goodbye, its just till next time. Happy Birthday with love.

Lori Santon / @lorimemory

My first EPIC moment with Shinedown was when I heard Call Me. ..call me a sinner, call me a saint..tell me its over Ill still love you the same. Those lyrics were profound for me. I had just been through a bad break-up, and that song got me through. Having you in my life has been a thing of beauty. You have shared o much of your life with us, your Shinedown Family. We are family, and I thank you for making us feel that way. With your poetic and melodical words, you give me true strength to stay out of the darkness and strive to be a better me. You are an inspiration, as well as the rest of the guys of our beloved Shinedown. You and Shinedown have given me strength to Shine On and look at the world with a more open mind. I couldnt dream of not waking up or going to bed without listening to your beautiful voice. Happy Birthday Brent, Youre amazing!

Michelle Marburger / @missyrenee6

Brent, I remember the first time I saw you at a Lalabazooka concert..I said This band is awesome and they are going to be BIG! Ever since that day, Ive been obsessed with you, but not in a weird way. You have changed so much and have only gotten better. I never felt this way about a band and their music. Every song really does have meaning. I will continue to follow, watch and read everything about you, as you are very special. Happy Birthday, Brent.

Draft Zemnickas Lynn

Hi Brent! For your Birthday, I wish you all the best. Whatever you are dreaming about shall come true. Most of all stay healthy and everything will be fine. It is your Birthday, so how can we help to fulfill your dreams in life? I wish for you today and forever happiness, luck and contentment. I wish you all the best for all the forthcoming years.

Daniela Wolters

Angie Dubey / @AngieD731

Brent to you, one of the most talented vocalists I have ever heard! Happy Birthday and many more keep shining forever!

Bethann Bichmo

Happy Birthday Mr. Smith!

Niki Newman

A very Happy Birthday to you Mr. Brent Smith! I love you and your voice and the music. Please come back to Birmingham UK so I can meet you and Zach, Barry and Eric again! Hope you have a Fantastic Birthday and dont ever change, you are my hero!

Tasha-x Campbell-x

Happy Birthday, Brent! You are a great singer and you are a big influence in my music!

Eddie Pelosi

Hoping you have a fantastic Birthday, Brent. Thank you for everything that you are, and everything you do. Much love and respect.

Lulli xxxxx

YAY!! You rock!!! Happy Birthday, Brentmay your rainbow Shine BrightGod bless youRock On Shine On XO

Dolores Dodds

When I heard the song Burning Bright for the first time, it seemed it was written for me. I had just found out I had a serious health problem, which I am still fighting todayand the more I listen to Shinedown, I realize that there was something very special about this group. I think there is such a positive energy around your band,and the lyrics all send positive messages. In my opinion, no one can sing like you Brent Smith, you are a starand no other band has touched my life, and made such an impact, since the Beatles (and I go back that far). It was an honor to meet all of you and Teresa, and I will go back to every show in venues I can reach, for as many years as I have left on this earth. Ill be in the front row on March 11 th in Estero, FL! Happy Birthday, Brent! With love from Cyan.

Cyan Kaja / @CyanKaja1

As you can see, Brent.we all love and adore you for many reasons, big and small! You have saved so many lives in so many ways. You are like a Divine Intervention our Angel from above. We all have stories, and weve all fought battles in the past, are fighting battles now, and will fight more in the future. Shinedowns amazing music and your beautifully poetic lyrics help light the way by Burning Bright, so we can see the end of the tunnel. Your songs are like stepping stonesto lead us where we need to go.

You are an Amaryllis.showing us, encouraging us, and inspiring all of us to bloom, against all odds. YOU have done just that you have beaten the odds! You have written many songs that tell us your stories, that take us on a journey through the life that youve lived. You have shared with us many of your experiences the painful and the glorious. Everything youve asked for is what you have become, and you are now offering that to us something we will cherish forever. We are all a Shinedown Family! We all pull together and have each others backs. We provide shoulders to cry on, friends to laugh with, arms to catch us when we fall, and hugs when we do something good, which is sometimes just being us You have taught us all how to do that. You have taught us how to strive to be the Better Versions of ourselves that we can be. Shinedown has taught us all the true meaning of UNITY. Thank you for being exactly who you are and not letting anything stop you from showing the world what youre made of for pouring your heart out to us, for being the lifeline that we sometimes need, for giving us the strength to keep going. Thank you for giving us the hope and dreams for better things, and the belief that they will come. And last but definitely not least..Thank you for inspiring us to Steal the Sun from the Sky and Fly from the Inside

We wish you the Happiest Birthday of them all and hope that all of your hopes and dreams come true! MUCH LOVE TO YOU ALL!! XOXOXO

Your Shiney Family