Corn Riot is a high-energy punk metal band founded by Kevin Droe and Chris Shortway, bringing together faculty members from the University of Northern Iowa School of Music for something a little different. Known for their loud, unapologetic sound and infectious energy, Corn Riot performs at local events—especially student-centered gatherings—where connection matters more than perfection.

At its core, Corn Riot exists to model something powerful for students: that music is not just about precision, technique, or getting every note right. It’s about joy, expression, and the shared experience of making music with others. In a school environment that often emphasizes accuracy and refinement, Corn Riot leans hard in the other direction—toward passion, spontaneity, and pure fun.

The band isn’t trying to be polished or professional, and that’s exactly the point. By embracing the raw, human side of music-making, Corn Riot shows students that you don’t have to be perfect to participate, perform, and connect. You just have to show up, plug in, and play.