This One is For Kelly; Checkmate Releases New Single “FAVORITE SONG”

Waldorf, Maryland emo punk band Checkmate return with “FAVORITE SONG,” their most personal release to date. Out now, the track serves as a heartfelt tribute from vocalist Billy Beitz to his late sister, Kelly, who passed away in 2021 from an opioid overdose.

“‘FAVORITE SONG’ is about the emotions and guilt one might feel losing someone so close,” Beitz shares. “It’s a death that never had to happen. I want to use this platform to provide resources for those struggling and connect with anyone navigating these feelings alone.”

Produced by Paul Leavitt (All Time Low, The Dangerous Summer), the single marks a new chapter for Checkmate – one defined by growth, intention, and collaboration. The outro includes a surprise reprise of lyrics from “Bloody Legs,” one of the band’s earliest tracks and Kelly’s favorite, added secretly by best friend/bassist Tony and guitarist Sebastian as a tribute.

Since 2017, Checkmate have embodied the raw emotion of the DMV scene, blending punk energy with unfiltered honesty. “FAVORITE SONG” stands as their most powerful work yet – a cathartic ode to loss, love, and resilience.

Stream the new single here.