Shinedown lavish Iron Maiden fans with praise: ‘They’re in a league of their own’

The Floridian rockers opened on all UK & Ireland dates of Iron Maiden’s Book of Souls World Tour and Zach said they were initially worried at the reaction they were going to get. However, these concerns were quashed instantly.

“It was an odd combination to begin with. We know we are not a metal band. We are a rock band with a lot of pop songs,” Zach wrote.

“The Maiden fans that I thought would tear us apart were some of the best people we have ever had the pleasure of playing in front of.”

Zach continued: “If we turned even 15% of the people who we played for into Shinedown fans . . .

“And if you’re only 15% as loyal to us as you are to Maiden. . We’d be over the moon with excitement. .

“Maiden fans are in a league of their own . . . Its one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen . . . They TAKE over a city . . . It was such an amazing sight walking around each day in the city and seeing Thousands and Thousands of Maiden shirts . . . you truly are one of a kind . . .

“I have never in my life seen a bigger Merch band. . Ever. . I don’t care what anyone thinks . . . The Loyalty and Dedication these fans show is un-matched. . PERIOD!

“So finally to the fans. . Thanks for listening to our band . . .and giving us that chance. . You were a sight to behold every single night!!”

Praising Maiden themselves, Zach added: “To Steve, Bruce, Nicko, Dave, Adrian, Janick . . .you are some of the classiest gentleman we’ve ever had the pleasure of touring with . . .you treated us second to none . . . and we hope we will always carry that with us. .”

Iron Maiden have also released a video thanking everyone who came to see them on the UK & Ireland tour, which you can cast your corneas on here:

> It's been an awesome leg of The Book Of Souls World Tour - thank you all!
> Now we head across the Atlantic... pic.twitter.com/UoHSCeVg3x > > — Iron Maiden (@IronMaiden) May 29, 2017