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This summer has been anything but quiet for Switchfoot, and drummer Chad Butler couldn’t be more energized. Between long days in the studio and electrifying nights on festival stages, the band is charging full speed ahead into a new season—both creatively and spiritually.
Butler recently shared some insight into the band’s current journey. At the heart of it is a new album in the works, being recorded in both Nashville and San Diego, cities that hold special meaning for the band. “Each city brings something different to the table,” Butler said. “Nashville has this songwriting soul, and San Diego is our home—it's where we come alive.”
While Butler didn’t give away too much about the new album, he promised a blend of classic Switchfoot energy with new sonic territory. Fans can expect a sound that’s both nostalgic and adventurous, rooted in the band’s commitment to depth and authenticity.
In the meantime, Switchfoot has been hitting the road, performing at outdoor festivals across the country. For Butler, these shows offer more than just a chance to perform—they’re an opportunity to connect with people on a human level. “There’s a unique magic at festivals,” he said. “You’re playing to a crowd that didn’t all come for you, so you have to earn every moment. It keeps us sharp and reminds us why we do this.”
One place the band always looks forward to is Ohio, where they’ve cultivated a loyal fan base over the years. “The energy in Ohio is something special,” Butler said. “There’s a shared history we feel every time we play there.”
While many artists steer clear of the cultural fray, Switchfoot leans into it—not to take sides, but to ask the big questions. “We believe in the power of music to transcend politics,” Butler said. “It’s not about telling people what to think, but giving them space to reflect and connect.”
In a music industry that’s seen its share of turmoil, Switchfoot continues to go their own way. As an independent band, they’ve taken control of their creative direction and embraced a mission that puts meaning above metrics. “We want to make music that lasts,” Butler said. “That speaks to people—not just today, but ten years from now.”
With a new album on the horizon and a summer full of unforgettable moments, Switchfoot is proving once again why they remain one of the most beloved bands in modern rock.
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