Roadrunner United

Roadrunner United was a collaborative project initiated by the record label Roadrunner Records to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Here are some key facts about the project:

1. Formation and Purpose: Roadrunner United was formed in 2005 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Roadrunner Records, one of the most influential metal and hard rock labels in the world. The project brought together past and present artists signed to Roadrunner Records, including musicians from iconic bands such as Slipknot, Killswitch Engage, Trivium, Fear Factory, and many others. The goal was to create a collaborative album featuring original music written and performed by a diverse lineup of artists associated with the label.

2. The All-Star Lineup: The lineup for Roadrunner United featured a who's who of metal and hard rock musicians, representing various subgenres within the broader spectrum of heavy music. Notable contributors included Corey Taylor (Slipknot, Stone Sour), Matt Heafy (Trivium), Dino Cazares (Fear Factory), Jesse Leach (Killswitch Engage), and many more. Each artist brought their unique style and musical influences to the project, resulting in a diverse and eclectic collection of songs.

3. The Album and Concert: The culmination of the Roadrunner United project was the release of a collaborative album titled "The All-Star Sessions" in 2005. The album featured 18 original tracks written and performed by the artists involved in the project, with various musicians contributing vocals, guitars, bass, and drums. In addition to the album, Roadrunner United also performed a live concert in New York City in December 2005, featuring many of the musicians who contributed to the album. The concert was a celebration of the label's legacy and a showcase of the talent and creativity of the artists involved.

4. Legacy and Impact: Roadrunner United left a lasting impact on the metal and hard rock community, showcasing the collaborative spirit and camaraderie among musicians associated with Roadrunner Records. The project demonstrated the label's commitment to supporting its artists and fostering creativity within the heavy music scene. "The All-Star Sessions" album received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, with many praising the diversity and quality of the music. The project also spawned a documentary DVD titled "Roadrunner United: The Concert" which captured the making of the album and the live concert event.

5. Continued Influence: While Roadrunner United was a one-time project, its influence can still be felt within the metal and hard rock community. The album and concert served as a celebration of the label's legacy and a testament to the enduring power of collaboration in music. Many of the songs from "The All-Star Sessions" remain popular among fans of the artists involved, serving as a reminder of the talent and creativity that came together to create something truly special in the world of heavy music.