Full Breakdown
Jason Newsted and The Chophouse Band Announce First North American Headlining Tour
4/22/2026, 12:51:42 AM
Overview of the Tour
Former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted will lead The Chophouse Band on their inaugural North American headlining tour this summer. The tour is set to kick off on July 1, 2026, in Northampton, Massachusetts, and will conclude with two performances at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee, on July 24 and 25. This tour comprises 18 dates, including eight headlining shows and ten supporting performances for the Atlanta-based country-rock band Blackberry Smoke.
Tour Itinerary
The Chophouse Band's tour schedule includes stops in various cities across the South, Midwest, and East Coast. Key dates include:
- July 1: Northampton, MA - Iron Horse Music Hall
- July 2: Albany, NY - Empire Underground
- July 3: Lititz, PA - Mickey’s Black Box
- July 5: Wayne, PA - 118 North
- July 6: Alexandria, VA - The Birchmere
- July 9: Wilmington, NC - Greenfield Lake Amphitheater
- July 10: Durham, NC - Durham Performing Arts Center
- July 11: Charlotte, NC - Ovens Auditorium
- July 12: Charleston, SC - Charleston Music Hall
- July 15: Lewiston, NY - Artpark
- July 16: Utica, NY - Saranac Brewery
- July 17: Farmington, PA - Timber Rock Amphitheater
- July 18: Columbus, OH - Newport Music Hall
- July 20: Grand Rapids, MI - Pyramid Scheme
- July 21: Newport, KY - Southgate House Revival
- July 22: Knoxville, TN - Open Chord
- July 24-25: Nashville, TN - Ryman Auditorium
Tickets for the headlining shows will be available for purchase starting April 24, 2026.
Band Composition and Musical Style
The current lineup of The Chophouse Band features Jesse Farnsworth (guitar, vocals), Jimbo Hart (bass, vocals), Humberto Perez (guitar), and Robert John-Tucker (drums, vocals). Newsted describes the band's music as a blend of "outsider Americana," incorporating elements of bluegrass, folk, soul, rock, and heavy metal. He emphasizes that their performances will include both original songs and covers of influential tracks, promising a dynamic range from acoustic tunes to heavier sounds.
Official Statements & Responses
Newsted expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming tour, stating, “We’re fired up to finally take this to the people, and it’s an honor to head out on the road with the Blackberry crew for our first proper run.” He highlighted the importance of connecting with audiences and noted that the band aims to deliver a diverse musical experience, saying, “There could be country flavor to a song, but it'll still have sharp teeth.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the announcement has been met with excitement from fans, some critics may question the viability of Newsted's transition from heavy metal to a more eclectic musical style. However, Newsted has consistently expressed his commitment to exploring new musical avenues and connecting with his audience through diverse genres.
What's Next
As the tour approaches, anticipation builds among fans of both The Chophouse Band and Blackberry Smoke. Newsted's return to the stage marks a significant moment in his career, following a hiatus from headlining tours since his departure from Metallica in 2001. This tour represents not only a new chapter for Newsted but also a celebration of his ongoing contributions to American music.
