After the passing of C.J. Snare in April, FireHouse held their first live show with their new lead singer, Nate Peck.
Peck, who joined the band in 2023 due to Snare’s illness, officially became a member following Snare’s death. A video of the band’s June 7 performance at Hollywood Casino in Grantville, Pennsylvania, was posted on the Jim Powers YouTube channel.
Nate Peck’s ‘American Idol’ Journey
Peck, a standout contestant on Season 21 of ‘American Idol,’ received a golden ticket for his impressive audition. Judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie were notably impressed. Richie praised him, saying:
“That was brilliant… The best rock singer EVER that we’ve had. You’ve got it!”
“Actually, he’s SO good!”
All three judges gave him unanimous approval to advance in the competition. However, Peck decided to leave the show to pursue his music career independently. He now performs live in Nashville’s rock scene and occasionally sings with bands like Jack Russell’s Great White.
Bill Leverty on Nate Peck
Peck was introduced to FireHouse guitarist Bill Leverty through Robbie Lochner, guitarist of Jack Russell’s Great White. Leverty explained:
“When I first heard Nate’s vocal range, tone, and control, I immediately knew he’d be the perfect fit for filling in for CJ, who was recovering from surgery. I pushed hard to get Nate out to play at New England Rockfest in October of 2023. He learned our songs very quickly and absolutely crushed it at the show. I then sent some video to CJ, and he agreed, saying, ‘THAT’S the guy’!”
C.J. and Nate formed a close bond. Nate has been performing with FireHouse since October 2023. Snare, diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in 2020, had planned to rejoin FireHouse for their 2024 tour but passed away unexpectedly. His bandmates expressed shock and sorrow, honoring him as a vocal talent and rock warrior.
You can watch the band’s full set below.
