Bad Penny

Incredibly honored that this masterpiece will be heard on the next Bad Penny record. This particular ax was built by Brian May and played live by another of my heroes, Steve Stevens.

It’s that time for a Christmas jingle that hits you in the holiday feels! The incomparable former Journey vocalist Steve Augeri leads the Bad Pennies on “Don’t Forget (This Christmas)”.

DON'T FORGET (THIS CHRISTMAS) LYRIC VIDEO A special holiday single by Bad Penny (featuring former JOURNEY lead vocalist Steve Augeri), this one has the kitchen sink: a choir, sleigh bells, flugelhorn...

We loved shooting the video for “Push Comes to Shove” with Rob Halford. A legend and a class act.

On the set of the video shoot for “Push Comes to Shove” (Mike Holtzman, Rob Halford, Abigail Rose Holtzman)

Check out the song RockFiend Magazine says has the “most epic, dramatic, and climactic ending of any song we’ve heard in years.” “The Shadow Still Remains” (featuring Living Colour’s COREY GLOVER) by the mega-group Bad Penny (feat. vocalists and musicians known for their work with Judas Priest, Dee Snider, Queen, Journey, Queensryche).

The Shadow Still Remains / Black Betty Provided to YouTube by TuneCoreThe Shadow Still Remains / Black Betty · Bad PennyThe Shadow Still Remains / Black Betty℗ 2023 Bad PennyReleased on: 2023-04-1...

One year ago today we released the animated, Scooby Doo-inspired official video for “Army of One” (feat. Dee Snider), guest-starring…the Terminator! We had a blast making this record and video.

“ARMY OF ONE” (Bad Penny feat. Dee Snider) Saturday morning cartoons return...HEAVY METAL STYLE! The animated official video for Bad Penny's "Army of One" (ft. Dee Snider) has it all: Zombies! Motorcy...

Bad Penny features musicians known for their work with Judas Priest (Rob Halford), Twisted Sister (Dee Snider), Living Colour (Corey Glover), Queen, Journey, Queensryche and others. Check out “The Shadow Still Remains” (feat. Corey Glover) on all digital platforms.

The legendary Alice Cooper will be spinning “The Shadow Still Remains (feat. Living Colour’s COREY GLOVER) on ‘Nights with Alice Cooper’ on his May 15 show. This program airs on 100 terrestrial affiliates nationwide.

TSSR will also air on Matt Pinfield’s iconic rock show on Los Angeles KLOS and Jonathan Clark’s “Out of the Box” on New York’s top rock station Q104.3.

Bad Penny features musicians known for their work with Judas Priest (Rob Halford), Twisted Sister (Dee Snider), Living Colour, Journey, Queen, and Queensryche.

The Shadow Still Remains / Black Betty - Single (feat. Corey Glover) - Single by Bad Penny Album · 2023 · 1 Song

It’s here! Let us know what you think once you give it a listen! Also available on Spotify, Amazon, YouTube and other digital platforms.

“Blistering. Epic. Words alone cannot do this song justice.” -RockFiend

The Shadow Still Remains / Black Betty - Single (feat. Corey Glover) - Single by Bad Penny Album · 2023 · 1 Song

Hey friends. There’s still time to pre-order ”The Shadow Still Remains” (feat. Living Colour’s Corey Glover) before it drops this Friday. Just use the link below.

http://itunes.apple.com/album/id1678356376?ls=1&app=itunes

“Epic. Blistering. Literally thrilling, edge-of-your-seat stuff. Words alone do not do this song justice.” -Rockfiend

The full review of “The Shadow Still Remains” (feat. Living Colour’s Corey Glover) from Gareth Griffiths at Rockfiend. Rockfiend gets into the clubs and into the weeds to dig out some amazing rock music. Check them out!

Bad Penny – ‘The Shadow Still Remains’ (feat. Corey Glover)
Reviewed by Gareth Griffiths

As I’ve mentioned in previous reviews, “keep coming back like a bad penny” is an old phrase often used in Scotland to describe someone or something that just won’t go away. It keeps coming back again and again as an unwanted presence. Fortunately, this phrase means nothing to US band Bad Penny, who have been returning with new music on a regular basis for the past few years.

For those of you still unaware of Bad Penny’s existence, there’s really no excuse (particularly if you are a regular follower and reader of Rockfiend’s music reviews). Conceived by New York-based guitarist/songwriter Mike Holtzman to “write and release original songs in a variety of genres – from classic rock to metal to power ballads”, the band has previously released six star-studded singles featuring guest vocalists Todd LaTorre (Queensryche), Steve Augeri (Journey, Tall Stories), Rob Halford (Judas Priest) and Dee Snider (Twisted Sister). The rhythm section of Queen + Paul Rodgers bassist Danny Miranda and Blue Oyster Cult drummer Jules Radino perfectly complemented Holtzman’s guitar on previous releases, so it’s not a stretch of the imagination to call Bad Penny a ‘supergroup’ of sorts.

In my opinion, the band’s music has gone from strength to strength, with each release finding the musicians sounding tighter and more together than the last. So, my interest was piqued when Bad Penny’s next single, ‘The Shadow Still Remains’, was delivered to my inbox several weeks ago. Due for release on 14th April 2023, vocals are provided by Living Colour’s powerhouse lead singer Corey Glover with Jason Gianni (Rock of Ages) taking over drum duties. Lyrically, it’s an unusually political song for Bad Penny, inspired by Martin Luther King Jr’s final speech before his death and his famous ‘open letter’ from jail, whilst further drawing its theme from more recent events, such as debates over critical race theory and the killing of Tyre Nichols in the US. So, as I walked through the Scottish woodlands and countryside listening to the song again and again on repeat (like a bad penny!) through my headphones, could the music and challenging lyrical content resonate over 3000 miles away across the Atlantic Ocean?

‘The Shadow Still Remains’ starts with a descending chord structure on an acoustic guitar, in a similar vein to Blind Faith’s 1969 classic ‘Can’t Find My Way Home’. Corey Glover’s unmistakeably smooth voice is introduced to the song with the words “we’re the same no matter what we do” as the acoustic guitar continues in the background. The intro is simple and melodic yet carries enough weight to suggest that something much bigger is coming, particularly as orchestration through a lone stringed instrument (perhaps a cello) joins in. A crash of symbol from Gianni’s drums and the first sound of bass guitar from Miranda playing along with the descending guitar line helps to build the atmosphere which comes to a crescendo as Glover’s voice is raised to sing “listen closely now, the ghosts are in the hall. The ghosts are in the hall”.

Holtzman’s electric guitar comes to life with some slight distortion, as Gianni plays a huge, crushing, monstrous drum-fill that leads to the rhythm section coming to life and driving the song on. Cinematic orchestration, al la Led Zeppelin’s ‘Kashmir’, creates a dramatic soundscape that showcases the sheer scale and power of Glover’s crystal-clear vocals. As he sings “cos when the darkness comes the shadow still remains”, his voice is soaring, yet carries a hint of pain and anger that strongly indicates this line means something personal to him.

As the song reaches the bridge, the atmosphere remains fraught with tense sounding orchestration accompanied by powerful drumming, driving basslines and a nod to the original meaning of ‘Black Betty’ which was often referred to by blues pioneers in the early 20th century; a bullwhip used to keep prisoners in line or to mete out punishment (and disproportionately used against the black population). “Oh, Black Betty, I’m still going steady when you’re sticking me to the ground. Oh, Black Betty, I’m still rock steady when I’m taking hits all around” sings Glover in the most steadfast manner; perhaps a metaphor for standing tall in the face of adversity and carrying on the good fight against all that was and continues to be wrong in the United States and further afield.

A blistering guitar solo by Holtzman, in my opinion one of the best he’s played on Bad Penny’s recordings, takes the song to one of the most epic, dramatic and climatic musical endings that I’ve heard in many years. It’s literally thrilling, edge-of-the-seat stuff, with a sample of the final speech by Martin Luther King Jr. and words that remain as powerful and relevant today as they were 55 years ago:

“Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars. And I see God working in this period of the twentieth century in a way that men, in some strange way, are responding. Something is happening in our world”.

“We’re the same, no matter what we do”, sings Glover as the song comes to an end. Indeed we are, Corey. Indeed we are. To borrow the title of a famous song, ‘a change is gonna come’.

In all honesty, words alone can’t do this song justice. It really has to be heard and listened to in order to fully understand and appreciate its scale and power. Corey Glover isn’t simply singing on this track. He’s telling a story that needs to be heard and does so through one of the most authentic and powerful vocal performances of his career. The lyrics and the music complement one another and I can’t help but feel that they wouldn’t quite have the same impact if they were heard in isolation. When dealing with such an important, current issue, the music has to be a vehicle for the lyrics, carrying them into the mind of the listener and forcing them to consider challenging and uncomfortable questions without overwhelming them. In ‘The Shadow Still Remains’, Bad Penny manage to find this crucial balance. This is an intellectual and lyrically challenging song with some stunning song writing and musical arrangements. It is undoubtedly the most epic track released by the band and one that should resonate with people around the world. They’ve set a high bar and if there’s any justice, this will be the song that brings attention to the music of Bad Penny… and on this form, I look forward to the band returning like a ‘bad penny’ with more new music in the hopefully not too distant future.

‘The Shadow Still Remains’ is available to pre-order at the following link: http://itunes.apple.com/album/id1678356376?ls=1&app=itunes. It will be released on 14th April 2023 and Bad Penny are currently putting the final touches to an album that will be released later this year. Check out the band’s social media pages for a 60 second teaser of the accompanying music video and visit the website at www.badpennyband.com for more info on the band and their releases.

WOW! Here’s the first excerpt from an amazing review for “The Shadow Still Remains (feat. Living Colour’s Corey Glover) from the UK’s Rockfiend!

“A blistering guitar solo by Mike Holtzman, in my opinion one of the best he’s played on Bad Penny’s recordings, takes the song to one of the most epic, dramatic and climatic musical endings that I’ve heard in many years. It’s literally thrilling, edge-of-the-seat stuff.”

“In all honesty, words alone can’t do this song justice. It really has to be heard and listened to in order to fully understand and appreciate its scale and power.”

The Shadow Still Remains / Black Betty - Single (feat. Corey Glover) - Single by Bad Penny Album · 2023 · 1 Song

For this kid, trauma—like the Easter Bunny and the rite of spring—comes back year after year.

A rare photo of Delbert Grady’s family celebrating Easter at the Overlook Hotel.

Dear Rock Fiends, Here is a .60 preview of our new single “The Shadow Still Remains,” featuring Living Colour’s Corey Glover! 🤘

.60 second music preview “The Shadow Still Remains” (feat. Living Colour’s Corey Glover) Music preview: “The Shadow Still Remains” (feat. Living Colour’s Corey Glover). Bad Penny features artists known for their work with Judas Priest, Twisted Si...

Easter is coming. And it will find you.

Word is out! “The Shadow Still Remains,” featuring Living Colour’s COREY GLOVER is “superbly wrought rock” (Tattoo Magazine) and an “instant classic.” Pre-order here: http://itunes.apple.com/album/id1678356376?ls=1&app=itunes

Pre-order the Zeppelin-esque rollercoaster “The Shadow Still Remains” featuring Living Colour’s COREY GLOVER by clicking the link below. Bad Penny features artists known for their work with Judas Priest (Rob Halford), Twisted Sister (Dee Snider), Queen, Journey, and Queensryche.

http://itunes.apple.com/album/id1678356376?ls=1&app=itunes

Bad Penny Featuring artists known for their work with Judas Priest, Queen, Journey, Queensryche, Living Colour.

Click above to pre-order the Zeppelin-esque rollercoaster “The Shadow Still Remains,” featuring Living Colour’s Corey Glover on lead vocals…standing tall in the footsteps of Bad Penny frontmen Rob Halford (Judas Priest), Dee Snider and other legends.

“An instant classic” - Rock Era Magazine

The Shadow Still Remains / Black Betty - Single (feat. Corey Glover) - Single by Bad Penny Album · 2023 · 1 Song

Pre-order with link below! Bad Penny features artists known for their work with Judas Priest, Queen, Queensryche, Twisted Sister, Blue Oyster Cult, and Journey. The Zeppelin-esque epic “The Shadow Still Remains” features Living Colour’s Corey Glover. Check out other BP music featuring Rob Halford, Dee Snider and other greats now!

http://itunes.apple.com/album/id1678356376?ls=1&app=itunes

Bad Penny Bad Penny is a rock “supergroup” featuring current and ex Queen, Blue Oyster Cult, Deep Purple, Journey, and Queensryche musicians. The project is led by guitarist/songwriter Mike Holtzman.

Bad Penny features artists known for their work with Judas Priest, Queen, Queensryche, Twisted Sister, Blue Oyster Cult, and Journey. The Zeppelin-esque epic “The Shadow Still Remains” features Living Colour’s Corey Glover. Listen for it April 14.

Bad Penny Featuring artists known for their work with Judas Priest, Queen, Journey, Queensryche, Living Colour.

An “instant classic” (Rock Era Magazine) is coming this April 14: the Zeppelin-esque slammer “The Shadow Still Remains” (feat. Living Colour’s Corey Glover). Bad Penny features musicians known for their work with Judas Priest, Queen, Twisted Sister, Queensryche, Blue Oyster Cult, and Journey.

Wow! Thanks everybody! Glad you liked the music this year. Big surprises in store with our full album in spring 2023! Danny Miranda Jules Radino Mike Holtzman

It’s officially the holiday season! Enjoy this Christmas jingle from Bad Penny featuring the amazing Steve Augeri (Journey), a blazing guitar solo, a choir, holiday bells and some wonderful children.

DON'T FORGET (THIS CHRISTMAS) LYRIC VIDEO A special holiday single by Bad Penny (featuring former JOURNEY lead vocalist Steve Augeri), this one has the kitchen sink: a choir, sleigh bells, flugelhorn...

Hey gang. If anyone wants to hear our single “Voices in My Head” but don’t have the money to buy it on ITunes, just message the band with your email and we will send you the track through iTunes for free. We are living theough COVID and everyone should have access to music. Love, Bad Penny

“Now THAT is a ROCK & ROLL song!” -Keith Fingers, DJ, 102.3 WBAB

Get “Voices in My Head,” the killer new track from Bad Penny —featuring Queensryche vocalist Todd LaTorre, ex-Queen bassist Danny Miranda, Blue Oyster Cult Drummer Jules Radino, and guitarist Mike Holtzman—on Spotify, Amazon Music, and many other digital music platforms.

www.BadPennyBand.com

The first review of “Voices in My Head” is in!

“Now this is a ROCK & ROLL song. And it gets better and better every time I listen to it. I love the guitar solo. The drums. The bass line. The vocals. The lyrics. The whole thIng rocks!” -Fingers, 102.3 WBAB.

Hey kids, “Voices in My Head” drops Monday August 24th and we will be premiering the song at a FaceBook Live event hosted by Fingers from 102.3 WBAB rock radio. Visit our event page to register to join us and meet the band: Queensryche vocalist Todd LaTorre, ex-Queen bassist Danny Miranda, Blue Oyster Cult drummer Jules Radino, and guitarist Mike Holtzman.