Shinedown played lead singer Brent Smith's hometown of Knoxville, TN on Sunday (August 28th) where he was surprised with a key to Knox County. WWE star Kane, AKA Mayor of Knox County Glenn Jacobs presented the special gift.
Kane told the crowd, “It's really special to have Shinedown here tonight. This group has No. 1 hits, they're award winning and they've sold over 10 million records, but what's super special about tonight is that this is Knoxville, and lead singer Brent Smith is a 1996 graduate of South Doyle High school right here in Knoxville. So I've got something for him.”
Kane held up the key explaining, “This was designed and fabricated by students at South Doyle high school and it is a key to Knox County. Shinedown has entertained millions of people around the world and I really love your inspirational message. So congratulations on all your success and we wish you much continued success in the future.”
Smith posted video of the moment on social media writing, “Honestly I am still trying to process our night in Knoxville, and everything that happened at the Thompson-Boling Arena. First of all to everyone in KTOWN that came out to the show THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! It was such a joy to see all of your beautiful faces. I hope everyone had an AMAZING time, I know we did.”
He continued, “I must admit I am rarely at a loss for words, but unbeknownst to me, my brothers, Eric, Barry and Zach along with our head of security had a 'little' well 'GIGANTIC' surprise for me, that left me speechless, humbled, and beyond grateful… Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever imagined a moment like this, as I watched KANE take the stage, and proceed to address the crowd, and present me with the Key to the city of my hometown of Knoxville Tennessee.”
Shinedown continue on tour to promote their new album, Planet Zero.
