Linkin Park has revealed the identity of the new co-vocalist who will be joining the band following the tragic death of former lead singer Chester Bennington.
During a live performance event on Thursday (September 5), the group announced that Emily Armstrong from the band Dead Sara is set to become their new vocalist.
Additionally, Colin Brittain, known for his work as a songwriter and producer for G Flip, Illenium, and One OK Rock, will be joining the band as a drummer.
Alongside this major announcement, Linkin Park has released a new single titled ‘The Emptiness Machine,’ marking their first new music release in seven years. This track is also the lead single for their forthcoming album, From Zero, which is scheduled for release on November 15.
This album will be Linkin Park’s first full-length project since 2017, following Bennington’s death. He was discovered dead at his home in Palos Verdes Estates, California in July 2017.
After Bennington’s death, the band went on hiatus but updated their website on August 24, 2024, with a mysterious countdown, which has culminated in the recent announcements.
The band also announced an upcoming world tour.
Reflecting on their return and new phase, Linkin Park’s co-founder and co-lead vocalist Mike Shinoda issued a statement: “Before Linkin Park, our first band name was Xero. This album title refers to both this humble beginning and the journey we’re currently undertaking.”
“Sonically and emotionally, it is about past, present, and future – embracing our signature sound, but new and full of life. It was made with a deep appreciation for our new and longtime bandmates, our friends, our family, and our fans.”
“We are proud of what Linkin Park has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead.”
Reactions from fans online have been mixed, though many support the decision to add Armstrong to the band.
One Twitter user commented: “Emily Armstrong is actually a pretty great choice as a new vocalist for Linkin Park. I was a bit skeptical on Linkin Park adding a female vocalist but she sounds splendid live. Sounds close enough to Chester but different enough that it is not a shameless ripoff.”
Another user added: “People hated Adam Lambert when he first played with Queen; the exact same is gonna happen with Linkin Park. Overtime people are gonna come to realize that Emily is not taking over from Chester, she & the band are continuing the legacy. You’re just unnecessarily mad from nostalgia.”
Linkin Park’s world tour will commence on September 11 in Los Angeles, followed by performances in NYC, Germany, the UK, South Korea, and Colombia.
General sale tickets will be available starting September 7 on the band’s official website.