Backing tracks remain a controversial topic in music, with opinions sharply divided—some view them as a crutch, while others see them as a valuable tool. Few take a balanced stance.
One of those few is Shinedown guitarist Zach Myers, who believes backing tracks can be great when used appropriately. In an interview with American Musical Supply, Myers pointed out that even major artists have relied on them without facing public backlash.
Zach Myers criticized the trend of bands bragging about not using backing tracks, calling it unnecessary and pointing out that even legendary acts like Queen used them. He emphasized that backing tracks can enhance live performances, like including orchestral elements on songs such as “Second Chance.”
However, he drew a line at using tracks to fake core performances—like vocals or guitars—stating that in Shinedown’s case, everything the audience hears is genuinely played live, aside from added elements like a cello.
“I think there’s a big misconception about… I see all these bands that, like, it’s become this cool trend to brag about not using tracks. Like, shut up, dude. Who cares? Queen did it. So, shut up. If Queen did it, shut up. Don’t say anything else. And if you wanna do it, that’s great. But people wanna hear the symphony on ‘Second Chance‘ [when we play it live], and I don’t feel like bringing up…”
“Now if you’re running vocals and you’re running guitars and you’re not playing things, I’m not for that. And I think people think when you run tracks, that’s what you’re doing. I’m, like, dude, there’s nary a guitar track out there, there’s not a bass track. Everything you’re hearing is coming from us unless you hear a cello.”
