On May 5, 2026, Jason Newsted joined Loudwire Nights to discuss the evolution of the Chophouse Band, a project he founded in the early 1990s that is finally embarking on its first-ever official tour. For Newsted, this return to the road is more than just a series of concerts; it is a testament to resilience and a celebration of new beginnings.
The tour, which kicks off on July 1 in Northampton, Massachusetts, will feature a mix of headlining dates and performances supporting Blackberry Smoke. Newsted noted that while he has historically limited himself to a handful of philanthropic shows per year, the decision to expand his touring schedule was driven by a unique set of circumstances.
“I became friends with Blackberry Smoke over the last few years,” Newsted explained. “I was just so enlightened, given hope by their demeanor, by their welcoming, embracing Southern gentleman nature. Everybody—not just Charlie Starr, not just Benji Shanks, everybody. The merch guy, camera guy, monitor guy, everybody was cool the same way. That is beautiful.”
The collaboration was manifested following a performance in Ithaca, New York, in November 2025, where Newsted joined the band onstage for a cover of Black Sabbath’s “Children of the Grave.” Following that show, Newsted approached Starr with the idea of the Chophouse Band opening for them, a suggestion that quickly turned into a reality.
Facing Mortality and Finding a New Voice
Beyond the camaraderie with his tourmates, the most profound catalyst for this tour was Newsted’s recent, harrowing health battle. “About one year ago, I had a procedure for throat cancer,” he revealed. The surgery and subsequent laser treatment fundamentally altered his physical reality, including his singing voice.
“The cavern inside my head is different than it was before,” he shared. “My singing voice is different for the stuff I’m singing now. It leans more toward that Tom Petty vibe and I’m kind of really digging it.”
Newsted, who famously played with Metallica, reflected on how the cancer scare shifted his perspective on life and performance. “I was the closest to death that I’ve been,” he admitted. “The way I feel the most alive is to be making music as loudly as possible, screaming my head off. I don’t care who’s watching… I need to feel the most alive that I can.”
This renewed sense of purpose has allowed him to assemble a formidable lineup for the Chophouse Band, including guitarist Jesse Farnsworth, bassist Jimbo Hart, guitarist Humberto Perez, and drummer Robert John-Tucker. As Newsted prepares to hit the stage, he views the tour as a moment where the “planets aligned,” proving that even after the darkest chapters, there is room for a new, clear-headed path forward.
