Shihad

Shihad’s Last Hurrah: From High School Jams to Rock Legends!

New Zealand’s iconic rock band Shihad announces their final tour ‘Loud Forever,’ and it’s going to be one for the history books! 🎸 #FarewellShihad #LoudForever

In a bittersweet announcement that has rocked the Kiwi music scene, iconic New Zealand rock band Shihad has declared their impending split alongside a farewell tour titled 'Loud Forever 1988 - 2025.' Originating in Wellington during 1988 as a group of spirited high school friends, frontman Jon Toogood and his bandmates—Karl Kippenberger, Phil Knight, and Tom Larkin—have been a defining force in the hard rock genre for nearly four decades. Their high-energy performances and heartfelt lyrics have created a loyal fan base, and now they’re ready to bid adieu to their electrifying journey with a final tour that promises to be loud and unforgettable.

The 'LOUD FOREVER' tour will showcase the band’s legendary music, offering fans one last chance to enjoy the iconic tracks that propelled them into the Australian music hall of fame and made them a household name in New Zealand. Kicking off in New Plymouth with a headlining slot at the ‘Rock the Bowl’ festival on December 29, the tour looks set to explode with bass beats and headbanging melodies. Joining Shihad on stage will be an epic lineup, including Sublime with Rome, Pendulum, Home Brew, Ladyhawke, and Elemeno P, sure to turn every concert into an all-out rock revival.

Reflecting on their prolific careers, Shihad shared, "We’ve lived the life that so many musicians would give their right arm for," making it clear that their journey has been filled with highs, lows, and unforgettable moments. Fans can expect an emotional ride as the band serves up a retrospective of their extensive discography, with ten studio albums and over a quarter of a million records sold across their journey.

As the band prepares to step off the stage for the final time, they leave behind a legacy of passionate performances and a significant contribution to New Zealand’s music history. Shihad’s influence stretches far beyond just rock music; they’ve helped put Kiwi culture on the map. Interestingly, they were inducted into Aotearoa's Music Hall of Fame in 2010, cementing their status as legends not only in music but in the hearts of many New Zealanders.

For fans wanting to relive the glory days, this tour promises to be a memorable send-off. Whether you're a lifelong follower or a newly initiated fan, make sure to catch Shihad on their ‘Loud Forever’ tour. After all, it’s not just a concert; it's a celebration of everything that has made Shihad part of the soundtrack of our lives!