Over the years, the guys in Needtobreathe would come out from behind their drums or keyboards and gather around one microphone up front to do an a cappella or acoustic number. They enjoyed it and the fans seemed to love it, so the band has talked for many years about doing an album and tour of acoustic music.
The label had other ideas, fearing fans might revolt if the group departed from its driving rock format. But finally in 2017, both sides agreed it was time.
If you go
› What: Needtobreathe› When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 1› Where: Tivoli Theatre, 709 Broad St.› Admission: Sold out› Online: tivolichattanooga.com
“We knew that we had established ourselves with our fans,” singer/bass player Seth Bolt said in a telephone interview.
“A lot of people know that a lot of what they hear in a live show is prerecorded, so it is special to produce 100% of the music live.”