Godsmack have officially confirmed Mike Mangini as the band’s new drummer following the departure of Wade Murff.
Mangini made his live debut with Godsmack on June 12th at the Morton Amphitheater in Riverside, Missouri, as the band kicked off the latest leg of their current North American tour. Fan-shot footage from the performance quickly circulated online, giving fans their first look at the former Dream Theater drummer performing live with Godsmack.
Following his debut show, Mangini took to social media to thank the band for the opportunity, praising Godsmack for trusting him to step in with no rehearsal and calling the experience a dream come true as he performed major U.S. venues alongside the group.
Mike Mangini is best known for his tenure with Dream Theater, where he played for more than a decade. His résumé also includes work with Extreme, Steve Vai, and a number of high-profile collaborations, making him one of rock and metal’s most technically respected drummers.
The lineup change follows Wade Murff’s recent departure from Godsmack’s touring lineup. Murff joined the band earlier this year after the exit of longtime drummer Shannon Larkin and made his live debut with Godsmack in May 2026.
With Mike Mangini now officially behind the kit, Godsmack continue their 2026 touring cycle with a refreshed lineup. Fans are already reacting to the change, with many eager to see how Mangini’s technical precision and progressive metal background will translate to the band’s hard-hitting catalog.
At this time, Godsmack have not announced any new music featuring Mangini, but his arrival marks a significant lineup shift and a new chapter for the veteran hard rock band.
Concert shot by Lina Glasir
