God Forbid is a prominent American metalcore band that originated in East Brunswick, New Jersey, in 1996. The band quickly gained traction in the late 1990s, building a dedicated following through extensive touring with notable acts such as GWAR and Cradle of Filth. Their debut album, “Reject the Sickness,” released in 1999, showcased their unique sound and earned significant airplay on WSOU-FM, leading to their signing with Century Media Records. Their sophomore effort, “Determination,” released in 2001, further solidified their presence in the metal scene, culminating in a performance on the MTV2 Headbangers Ball tour alongside renowned bands like Shadows Fall and Lamb of God.
The band’s breakthrough came with the release of “Gone Forever” in 2004, which, paired with a performance at Ozzfest, significantly elevated their profile. Their subsequent album, “IV: Constitution of Treason,” marked their first entry into the Billboard 200, debuting at number 118. God Forbid continued to impress with their 2009 release, “Earthsblood,” and received accolades such as the Independent Music Award for Best Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Song for “To the Fallen Hero.”
After a hiatus following their breakup in 2013, God Forbid made a triumphant return in 2022, reuniting for the Blue Ridge Rock Festival. This marked a significant moment in their career, as they welcomed former As I Lay Dying guitarist Nick Hipa for their reunion performance. The band has since continued to engage with fans through select performances, demonstrating their enduring appeal and commitment to their craft.
Musically, God Forbid is celebrated for their contributions to the metalcore and thrash metal genres, embodying the spirit of the new wave of American heavy metal. With a lineup that includes founding members Doc Coyle, Corey Pierce, Byron Davis, and John Outcalt, the band remains a powerful force in the music industry, consistently delivering high-energy performances and thought-provoking lyrics that resonate with audiences worldwide.