Former Dream Theater drummer Mike Mangini has officially joined Godsmack, stepping in to replace departing drummer Wade Murff. Mangini exited Dream Theater following the return of Mike Portnoy. He made his live debut with the band during their ongoing The Rise Of Rock tour.
Mangini took to social media to reflect on his first show with the band, expressing gratitude toward the entire Godsmack organization for bringing him on board with no prior rehearsal.
“Taking this all in today with show 1 done. And just like that, I finally get to play these dream venues in the USA with my Boston brothers in Godsmack,” Mangini said. “I need to thank a lot of people for putting this together so quickly. I can’t even express how grateful I am to Sully, Robbie, Sam and the entire organization for trusting me with no rehearsal.”
Mangini also extended his thanks to those who supported him throughout the process.
“My gear companies performed nothing short of a miracle and my family, friends & fans never stopped praying for and supporting me. Thank you,” he continued.
Godsmack also acknowledged the milestone, sharing a message following the first show: “Riverside, MO thanks for a great show and for welcoming the incredible Mike Mangini on his first show with us!!”
Mangini made his live debut with Godsmack on June 12 at the Morton Amphitheater in Riverside, Missouri. He stepped behind the kit without a single rehearsal session, delivering a full show in front of a live audience on the very first night.
Mangini’s history with major rock acts runs deep. He joined Dream Theater in late 2010 following a widely publicized audition process after Mike Portnoy’s departure from the band. Portnoy co-founded Dream Theater 40 years ago and eventually returned to the group. This led to Mangini’s exit from the band in October 2023.
Godsmack recruited Mangini to handle percussion duties for the remainder of The Rise Of Rock tour following the abrupt departure of Wade Murff. The band moved quickly to fill the vacancy, and Mangini’s availability and reputation made him a natural fit for the role on short notice.
The Riverside crowd’s warm reception on his debut night set a positive tone for the rest of the run. With the tour still underway, Mangini’s presence behind the kit gives Godsmack a seasoned and technically accomplished drummer to carry the remaining dates.
Source: Instagram
