Skillet to headline Winter Jam at Simmons Bank Arena
Decades have passed since Winter Jam’s inception, yet the annual Christian music extravaganza remains a significant event, capturing audiences in the Midwest and South. This year’s tour, with nine distinct musical acts, will make a stop in North Little Rock on Friday, featuring Skillet, a Christian rock band known for frequent appearances on the Billboard 200’s bestseller list.
As the quintet’s frontman, John Cooper, approaches his 50th birthday, Skillet continues to showcase unwavering energy and zeal, exuding a spirit that is louder, more defiant, and resolute. Cooper’s early exposure to music under strict limitations left an indelible mark. His mother, a piano and voice instructor, confined him to classical, church, and opera tunes, forbidding exposure to rock or contemporary genres. Cooper vividly recalls an incident where watching MTV with a friend led to a severe reprimand for singing Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.”
Despite these restrictions, Cooper found the allure of rock music irresistible as he matured. The ’80s, characterized by ubiquitous rock and metal influences, further shaped his musical preferences. He managed to persuade his parents to permit listening to select Christian metal bands alongside mainstream favorites like Bon Jovi and Metallica, fostering a diverse array of inspirations.
Embarking on his musical journey during high school, Cooper has remained dedicated to his craft, fervently believing that songs can be both high-energy and spiritual. Although his mother, who passed away from cancer when he was 15, disapproved of his musical inclinations, Cooper asserts his autonomy in pursuing art that resonates with him. 29 years since Skillet’s debut album release, the band’s resilience and success have exceeded his expectations, with five albums reaching the top of the Billboard Christian charts, including “Revolution.”
Reflecting on their enduring legacy, Cooper expresses gratitude for the band’s evolution and achievements, acknowledging the unpredictability of their prolonged success. Despite the uncertainties that life unfolds, Skillet continues to captivate audiences with their robust music that transcends generational boundaries. It’s a testament to the band’s enduring commitment to infuse spiritual themes with vibrant, electrifying rock anthems, resonating with listeners and embodying the spirit of Winter Jam’s celebration of faith and music.