Rock band Shinedown has been named Rock Artist of the Year at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards, held March 26 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The annual ceremony — broadcast live on FOX and streamed on the iHeartRadio app — recognizes the most‑played and fan‑voted artists across genres based on their impact and radio presence over the previous year.
Shinedown was nominated alongside fellow rock acts Linkin Park, Papa Roach, Sleep Token, and Three Days Grace for the top rock honor, a category that highlights both commercial airplay and fan support in mainstream rock. Their win in this category underscores their ongoing relevance and prominence within the rock landscape.
The band’s nomination followed a year of strong output and visibility, including the release of their new studio album EI8HT and the single “Safe and Sound,” which helped keep the band’s presence high on rock radio and in tour announcements. EI8HT is scheduled for release on May 29, 2026, through Atlantic Records, bolstering interest in the band’s momentum heading into the awards season.
Shinedown’s victory in the Rock Artist of the Year category at iHeartRadio continues a pattern of recognition for the band within the genre: they previously earned the same title, as well as Rock Song of the Year in 2025, when they took home multiple awards at the ceremony.
The 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards night was hosted by Ludacris and featured appearances by a star‑studded lineup across genres. Performances and honors included tributes, lifetime achievement recognitions, and awards across pop, country, R&B, and rock categories, reflecting the breadth of music celebration at the annual show.
Shinedown’s recognition as Rock Artist of the Year affirms both their continued radio impact and their deep connection with rock audiences in a crowded and competitive field.
