SPILL FEATURE: ROAR LIKE THUNDER WITH BUCKCHERRY! – A CONVERSATION WITH JOSH TODD

ROAR LIKE THUNDER WITH BUCKCHERRY!

A CONVERSATION WITH JOSH TODD

With all the everyday drama swirling around in today’s world, we all need to find a way to escape. How do we do that? Throw on some Buckcherry, with emotionally charged lyrics backed by headbanging music, so you can roar like thunder to get the party started!

The versatile band Buckcherry is playing straight-up rock n roll with their newest album, Roar Like Thunder, which was released on June 13, 2025. Critics are already praising this album. Starting on June 28, Buckcherry embarks on their 2025 summer tour.

In the ever-evolving landscape of rock music, few bands have managed to maintain their edge like Buckcherry. Recently, Josh Todd, the charismatic frontman of Buckcherry, sat down to discuss Roar Like Thunder, the band’s journey, the impact of streaming on the music industry, and his hard-earned advice for aspiring rock stars. Spoiler alert: it involves a lot of hard work and a little less auto-tune.

Roar Like Thunder came at a time when Todd was ready to co-write all the songs and music for an entire album. And he wanted to write and sing songs that would distract from all the negative bullshit. Buckcherry isn’t here to solve the world’s problems; they are here to rock out and have a good time! Leave the politics at home, folks. This album offers a refreshing take, one that resonates with fans seeking an escape from the daily grind. You won’t hear a ballad or a cover song on this LP. All you will listen to is in-your-face, rowdy party music all night long!

As Todd discusses the new album, he touches on tracks like “Roar Like Thunder”, a song about staying focused and pursuing what you want in life. “When the Sun Goes Down” reflects on a carefree, youthful time with no responsibility. He even shares that “Blackout” draws inspiration from his own tumultuous experiences with alcohol. The song lets you know it can be a fun time until it gets dark, when alcohol takes over.

The band’s songwriting process often involves the collaborating chemistry with producer Marti Frederiksen and bandmate Stevie D. Todd shares that “It happens in all different ways. Sometimes the music comes first, or I will write a song, sing it a cappella, then hand it over to Frederiksen and D to put to music”. Frederiksen is known for sending Todd a scat melody he likes, and Todd will write the words, and before you know it, they have a masterpiece. Todd expressed that the great joy in making records is not knowing the outcome. After its completion, you realise that it far surpasses the vision you had in your head — it gives you all the chills and thrills!

PURCHASE ROLL LIKE THUNDER

Todd attributes his success in writing good songs to listening to hit songs. Todd exclaims, “I wanted to write hit songs, so I made a point in my life where I’m only listening to hit songs”. Why not study these number one songwriting geniuses by listening to how they arrange a song and how they rhyme the words with the subject matter? When it comes to musical influences, Todd’s taste is as eclectic as a thrift store’s record collection. He attributes Buckcherry’s musical style to diverse influences, including punk rock and pop, as well as bands such as 7 Seconds, Minor Threat, Toy Dolls, and Subhumans.

But let’s face it: there’s something even more exhilarating and magical about a live rock show. It’s a place where sweaty bodies collide, and the air is thick with the scent of nostalgia and questionable decisions that let you forget about everything and let freedom reign. Buckcherry has built a reputation for delivering a good time, an experience that leaves fans buzzing long after the last chord is struck. Todd emphasises that their live performances are where the band truly shines, attracting a dedicated audience that’s ready to rock out, no matter the venue.

For young musicians looking to make their mark, Todd has some sage advice: “Be unforgettable and extraordinary at your craft. Work on it every day”. Todd is not a fan of auto-tune or pre-recorded tracks, emphasising the importance of authenticity in rock and roll. You might become a one-hit wonder with auto-tune if that is your tool of choice, but it won’t sustain you in this business. He believes that genuine talent and hard work will always prevail in the music industry, regardless of the influence of algorithms.

Todd acknowledges that the industry is constantly changing, and it is beneficial to learn how to navigate these various shifts. A song generally has only five seconds to get somebody’s attention, and if an indie artist wants to break through, it is up to them to figure out how or where to market that song to get the most exposure. He is quick to remind them that record executives are actively listening to new talent on social media platforms like Spotify and SoundCloud. Don’t get hung up on the dominating streaming services. Streaming has become the new normal, and while it may not pay the bills, it’s also a double-edged sword that allows Buckcherry to reach younger audiences who might not have otherwise discovered their music.

Ultimately, Buckcherry aspires to be recognised as a great rock band. Their journey is a testament to resilience and authenticity, and, like Todd, they give it their all every night they are on stage and take pride in their craft. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, remember to listen to Roar Like Thunder or see Buckcherry live to be part of a rock ‘n’ roll movement that allows you to roar like thunder. And who knows? You might find yourself dancing like no one’s watching—sweaty bodies and all.

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