“We aren’t afraid to be vulnerable…for people to see the good, the bad, and the ugly of who we are. It’s taken us a while to get there, but we are...”
Since originating back in the fall of 1999, Slingshot57 has evolved into an intense yet melodic rock group. Through several line-up changes, constant touring, and all the obstacles that life brings, Slingshot57 has truly matured to be a band with purpose. Based out of Champaign, IL and led by front man Benjamin Woods, Slingshot57 has challenged complacency with their passionate lyrics, energetic live shows, and humble approach. “We refuse to settle for the here and now. Life is meant to be lived for the eternal…we want to impact that eternity by loving people. We want to leave a lasting mark on the hearts of those that hear us, reminding them they are worth it.”
This authenticity and transparency has garnered them a loyal following and with such extensive and rigorous touring, that following has only grown. “We believe that doing something that matters, starts with a choice to love someone the way they are. You can’t love, if you never allow yourself to be vulnerable. We want to be the band that loves people enough to invest into them without thinking about what it gets us.” The guys passionately pursue the dream that the world can change if we chose to love beyond beliefs, race, social, economic standing, or any of the countless things that divide. “Music is a language that transcends all others. We want to make that connection, find the starting point, and help move someone one step closer to the Truth that has changed our lives.”
In the spring of 2004, Slingshot57 teamed up with Bridge Street Artist Agency to help manage their demanding schedule, and by the close of 2006 the band’s busy touring regimen had taken them to most of the country while surpassing the 700 show mark. They have opened for several label acts, played festivals large and small, and sold a combined total of over 17,000 copies of their 4 independent releases. Throughout their career they have had 4 charting radio singles on the national R&R charts along with clips of their music on 3 consecutive seasons of MTV’s The Real World. With their diligent work ethic and unswerving commitment to earn the right to be heard, Benjamin Woods, Paul Stewart, Nash Bruce, Daniel Bishop, and Tim Wilson are not living in the past, but looking to the future. “Legacies live beyond music. Life is a journey and that is what we want to write songs about…where we have been, where we are, and definitely where we are going…”
After releasing “The Evidence” in August 2007, Slingshot57 stood poised to continue reaching new audiences and bridging their way into the hearts of those willing to listen. A continued progression of their sound, “The Evidence,” has offered their heart of hearts both lyrically and musically. “ Simply put, these songs are the evidence of our hearts. They capture our most vulnerable moments as well as our strongest convictions…and that is why we so desperately wanted to share them…”
In October 2007, Slingshot57 formally announced a decision that was in the making for several months. “There is a season for everything, and this one is almost over. We have always hoped to challenge complacency, to be useful, and have refused to be inconsequential…and so after over 800 shows from coast to coast and 8 years of faithful ministry, we feel called to pursue other means of service for our King.” With the hopes to be obedient and God-honoring with their decisions, Slingshot57 hopes that they will be remembered as being transparent enough for you to see their imperfect faith, vulnerable enough for you to trust them, willing enough to find a starting point, and like any good friend would, encourage you one step further. “If anything has been accomplished through Slingshot57, it will be seen in you…”
 | Benjamin Woods vocals |
 | Daniel Bishop drums |
 | Paul Stewart guitar |
 | Nash Bruce guitar |
 | Tim Wilson bass |