Sonny Sandoval

A band that I have come to love over the past couple of years is nu-metal act P.O.D.  Sonny is the lead-singer and heart and soul of the group.  The band is held up by their hardcore back-end, but it is the vocals that stand out.  Sonny’s blend of screamo, rap and reggae make for a very unique mix.

What draws me to Sonny is his heart for the lost, his way-cool dreads (which he has now cut off sadly,) and the tattoos.  Would love to have mad hair and tatts like that, but my middle-class station in life makes that a little hard.

Having journeyed with the band since ‘Satellite‘ in the early nought-ies, I have enjoyed watching the music and lyrics mature as the boys have wrestled with their own identity as a band, as well as issues of faith.  Aside from the music being interesting in itself, P.O.D. display a heart for the average metal-loving Joe, seeking to get into nu-metal air time with some really positive messages. I was fortunate enough to see the boys do their thing when they seconded to Disturbed in concert last year.  Was quite moved to see all the kids in their black t-shirts  singing “I feel so alive for the very first time, and I think I can fly.”

One theme that comes up continually in Sonny’s lyrics is his love for his mother, who he lost to leukemia before the band got underway.  After many years, one can see that he is still processing this loss, showing a deep spirit and empathy for the broken of this world.

Unashamed of their faith and with a mission to enarm the ‘warriors’ to change the world, P.O.D. inspire me to ‘keep it real.’

Great P.O.D. Lyrics
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Even though you feel all alone
It can’t rain every day, It don’t rain for ever,
Your sunshine may be gone, but I know
It can’t rain every day,  It don’t rain for ever.
“It can’t rain every day”  When Angels and Serpents Dance – 2008

I think the hardest part of holding on is letting it go
“Goodbye for now” Testify – 2006



One word, a voice unheard
You can change the world
If everyone would stop and listen
“Change the World” Payable on Death – 2003

Time after time, Walk the fine line
Something keeps bringing me back
Time after time, going in blind
I don’t know which way I need to go
Do all these roads lead me back to you?
“Going In Blind” Greatest Hits: (The Atlantic Years) – 2006

I feel so alive, for the very first time
I can’t deny you, and I think I can fly
“Alive” Satellite – 2001

My life, a sacrifice is made new through these confessions
Manifested, this joy is my desire
Light this fire to flames; praise the name, Jehovah Jireh
“Tribal Warriors” – The Fundamental Elements of Southtown – 1999