Stan Lynch, the legendary drummer and founding member of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, is stepping back into the limelight with a new project. After years behind the scenes as a producer and songwriter, Lynch has announced the formation of THE SPEAKER WARS, a rock band set to release its debut album on May 30th under Frontiers Records.
A New Chapter for a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer
Lynch spent two decades recording and touring with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers before shifting gears. Instead of performing, he focused on songwriting and production, collaborating with artists like the Eagles, Don Henley, Tim McGraw, Ringo Starr, and more. His behind-the-scenes influence on the industry has been significant, crafting hits across multiple genres.
Now, after years of shaping other artists’ sounds, Lynch is returning to his roots. His new band, THE SPEAKER WARS, is the result of an unexpected creative spark with singer-songwriter Jon Christopher Davis.
From Nashville Writing Sessions to a Full-Fledged Band
Lynch and Davis first crossed paths in Nashville, introduced by a music publisher. At the time, Davis was compiling material for a solo album. However, as their collaboration deepened, they abandoned the idea of a solo project and opted to form a band instead.
The duo assembled an impressive lineup:
- Jay Michael Smith on guitar
- Brian Patterson on bass
- Steve Ritter on percussion
- Jay Brown on keyboards
With the pieces in place, THE SPEAKER WARS was born, bringing together seasoned musicians with a shared passion for timeless rock and roll.
Studio Sessions and a Record Deal
The band took their fresh sound to 5M Studios in Denton, TX, working alongside co-producer Mike Pisterzi. The result? A full-length album that immediately caught the attention of Frontiers Records, leading to a record deal and a scheduled release date of May 30th.
Lynch expressed his excitement, stating, “After my 20-year tenure with the Heartbreakers, I got a second act writing and producing. It was educational beyond measure to learn how to create music from the other side of the glass. Around this time, I met Jon Christopher Davis in Nashville who casually mentioned that we should start a band –– so here I am –– in THE SPEAKER WARS and it’s good to have my old job back. The guys in our new band know how to make great music, and I’m looking forward to another round.”
The Road Ahead
The upcoming album is expected to channel the classic rock influences that defined Lynch’s early career while incorporating fresh elements. With a team of skilled musicians and a seasoned frontman, THE SPEAKER WARS is positioned to make waves in the rock music scene.
As the release date approaches, fans eagerly await a first taste of the band’s sound. Whether it’s nostalgia or a reinvention, one thing is certain—Stan Lynch is back, and he’s bringing the firepower.
