6/15/25
Jack’s Mannequin Sells Out The National in Richmond, VA
BY CLAIRE JOHNSON
American rock band Jack’s Mannequin was formed in 2004 by Andrew McMahon, who originally wanted to focus on a more independent sound from his band, Something Corporate, which featured more rock elements. Andrew put more focus into his craft as a pianist and began writing with more intentionality and purpose for Jack’s Mannequin.
What was intended as a solo project soon grew to become a beloved band by many in the early 2000’s pop punk/emo scene as the lineup grew to include other members. Their influence during this time was a result of the more vulnerable lyrics and emotional, piano-driven sound compared to other artists of the time, cultivating a dedicated fanbase who seemed to really value and appreciate the more meaningful connection within the music. During the active years of Jack’s Mannequin, Andrew was also diagnosed with leukemia. Instead of giving up on music while he was battling cancer, he continued to use it as a source of strength and expression to talk about the personal struggles he was dealing with. While the band only made three albums during the early 2000’s, the music was important and resonated with many people as they found strength and encouragement within the songs. McMahon’s ability to be open with his audience through his music is one of the main reasons the short-lived project has stayed relevant all these years.
Jack’s Mannequin is now celebrating 20 years with The Made For Each Other Tour. Andrew stated in an article from Rolling Stone how “[the songs] are moments that deserve to be revisited,” and going on an anniversary tour is the perfect way to do just that. Every night, they are raffling off the drumhead played at each show for the Dear Jack Foundation to help raise money for programs that support youth and young adults who have been diagnosed with cancer.
The Made For Each Other Tour made a stop in Richmond, Virginia on June 12, 2025 and Jack’s Mannequin performed for a sold out crowd on Thursday evening. Loyal fans and admirers of the band packed into The National to reminisce on the music they fell in love with years ago. The whole evening was just one giant celebration of music as the room echoed with lyrics screamed by fans and the nonstop dance party that occurred throughout the entire night.
What really added to the fun was when a crew member brought out a huge inflatable llama float during “La La Lie,” which he used to crowd surf to the back of the pit before returning to the stage. He also took the time to walk through the crowd and hug fans during the song, “Made for Each Other.” One moment during the show, Andrew made a point to express the importance of actually feeling the music he plays every night and revisiting the music of Jack's Mannequin allows him to do that.
























