Beyond the Stage: Rock Star Frontman, Cris Hodges on Crackin Backs Podcast

When you step into the shoes of a legend, the weight of the world can feel like it’s on your shoulders. Cris Hodges, the newest frontman for Grey Daze, Chester Bennington's original band before Linkin Park, knows this pressure all too well. In this special episode of the Crackin Backs Podcast, Cris takes us on a journey from humble tribute band singer to standing on stage in front of thousands of Chester’s fans. His story is a captivating blend of courage, emotional depth, and a relentless pursuit of mental and physical well-being.

From Tribute Band to Taking the Stage with Grey Daze

Cris Hodges didn’t just stumble upon Grey Daze. His story began with a deep passion for Linkin Park, as he led a tribute band called In the End. His performances of Chester’s iconic songs stood out, and when Grey Daze needed a new frontman, it was Cris’s tribute experience that set him apart. He became the voice of a legacy, a responsibility both thrilling and nerve-wracking.

In 2017, Chester Bennington was set to reunite with Grey Daze for a tour, performing songs that were written but never performed live. However, tragedy struck just days before rehearsals began, leaving the band and their fans devastated. Despite the heartbreaking loss, the band carried on by producing three records with Chester’s original vocal tracks. It wasn’t until November 2022 that Cris was asked to join Grey Daze and bring Chester’s music back to the stage. His first show with the band? A festival in front of 15,000 eager fans who had been waiting years to hear Chester’s voice live once again. Cris admits he was overcome with nerves but ultimately electrified the crowd.

The Emotional Roller Coaster of Performing Chester’s Music

Performing songs like "Soul Song" and "Morei Sky" isn’t just about hitting the right notes for Cris—it's about connecting with the emotions Chester poured into them. In his first performances of these songs, Cris looked into the audience and saw tears streaming down the faces of fans. This wasn’t just a concert; it was an emotional release, a cathartic experience for both the band and the audience.

On the flip side, when performing upbeat tracks like "B12," the energy takes a wild turn with mosh pits and adrenaline-fueled excitement. Cris describes the shows as a roller coaster of emotions that requires him to dig deep every night to honor Chester’s memory and the band’s legacy.

The Mental Toll of Being in the Spotlight

Being the frontman for Grey Daze isn’t just about delivering powerful performances. Cris reveals the mental challenges that come with the role, acknowledging that he too has struggled with dark valleys in his life. Like Chester, Cris knows the battle against mental health issues can be relentless. Yet, for him, music isn’t a cause of depression but a way to express and release it. He views songs as a therapeutic outlet—something that resonates deeply with fans who see live performances as more than entertainment.

Cris takes his responsibility to his fans seriously. He’s inspired by a quote from Kobe Bryant: “Nobody cares how you are feeling, they came to watch you perform.” This mentality drives him to push through personal challenges, sickness, or exhaustion. His commitment to the audience means everything, especially when every show might be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for someone in the crowd.

The Fight for Mental and Physical Health

Despite his success on stage, Cris has faced personal struggles off it. In 2023, Cris hit a mental low that almost broke him. He found a way back through fitness, alternative therapies like acupuncture and chiropractic care, and, most notably, the use of psilocybin in a controlled and therapeutic manner. Cris is open about how psilocybin, guided by knowledgeable professionals, helped reset his mind and saved his life.

His journey isn’t just about keeping his mental health in check. He believes that mental, physical, and nutritional health are all intertwined. To maintain balance, Cris meditates, surrounds himself with positive people, and follows a strict routine of healthy eating, exercise, and hydration. He views staying healthy as a full-time job but one that is essential for maintaining a balanced life.

Looking Beyond the Stage

Cris’s story is more than just about stepping into Chester Bennington’s shoes—it's about carrying forward a legacy while forging his own path. His insights into mental health, especially his openness to alternative therapies, challenge the status quo of how we approach these issues. Cris isn’t afraid to speak his truth, even when it involves controversial topics like psilocybin therapy.

By the end of the Crackin Backs Podcast episode, you’ll find yourself not only moved by Cris’s experiences but inspired by his determination to turn pain into purpose. His story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is a way forward. Sometimes, it takes looking beyond the conventional, breaking down stigmas, and embracing new ways of healing.

Don’t Miss Out on Cris Hodges’ Journey

Cris Hodges has lived a life filled with music, emotion, and healing. His journey as Grey Daze’s frontman is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, offering a behind-the-scenes look at life after Chester Bennington and the ongoing battle with mental health. Whether you’re a fan of rock music, a mental health advocate, or just someone looking for a powerful story, this episode of the Crackin Backs Podcast will captivate you from start to finish.

Tune in to hear Cris’s story of stepping into the spotlight, his emotional connection to Chester’s legacy, and his unique approach to staying healthy and grounded. This is an episode you don’t want to miss—join us on the Crackin Backs Podcast for an unforgettable conversation.

Listen here or watch on YouTube and get ready to dive deep into the world of Cris Hodges and Grey Daze!