Drumming News :
GODSMACK has enlisted former DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Mangini to take over percussion duties for the remainder of the band’s “The Rise of Rock” tour following the unexpected departure of drummer Wade Murff.
Mangini made his live debut with GODSMACK on June 12 at Morton Amphitheater in Riverside, Missouri, where fans greeted the announcement with an enthusiastic response; when frontman Sully Erna introduced the renowned drummer, the crowd went wild. He joins Erna, bassist Robbie Merrill, and guitarist Sam Koltun, who has been touring with the band since early 2025.
Following his first performance, Mangini shared his excitement on Instagram, thanking the band and crew for welcoming him into the lineup on short notice. “I can’t even express how grateful I am to Sully, Robbie, Sam and the entire organization for trusting me with no rehearsal,” he wrote.
The lineup change comes after Murff abruptly exited the tour to fill in for BLACK VEIL BRIDES drummer Christian “CC” Coma on the band’s European tour. Just hours before his final GODSMACK performance, Murff had posted enthusiastically about continuing the trek.
Known as one of rock and metal’s most accomplished drummers, Mangini spent 13 years behind the kit for DREAM THEATER and has also performed with EXTREME and Steve Vai. His arrival brings a wealth of experience and technical skill as GODSMACK continues its summer run alongside STONE TEMPLE PILOTS and Dorothy.
