Linkin Park, the renowned rock-rap ensemble, has announced their return to the music scene after a prolonged hiatus. The band introduced Emily Armstrong as their new co-vocalist during a live-streamed event on September 5, 2024, which also served to announce their upcoming world tour and new album.
The group, known for their unique blend of rock and rap, revealed plans for six initial concerts. The tour is scheduled to commence in Los Angeles during the week of September 9, 2024, and conclude in Bogotá, Colombia, in November. This marks Linkin Park's first tour since the passing of their former frontman, Chester Bennington, in July 2017.
Linkin Park's forthcoming album, titled "From Zero," is set for release on November 15, 2024. This will be the band's first studio album since "One More Light," which was released in 2017. The live-streamed performance featured a new track, "The Emptiness Machine," alongside fan favorites such as "Numb" and "In the End."
In addition to Armstrong, who co-founded the rock group Dead Sara, Linkin Park introduced Colin Brittain as their new drummer. Brittain is also a producer and songwriter who has collaborated with various artists in the rock genre.
Linkin Park's impact on the music industry has been significant since their formation in 1996. Their debut album, "Hybrid Theory," released in 2000, is considered one of the best-selling debut albums of all time. The band has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has won two Grammy Awards. They were also the first rock band to achieve more than one billion YouTube views.
In an interview with Billboard, founding member and co-lead vocalist Mike Shinoda discussed the band's journey following Bennington's death. He mentioned that while the group would occasionally gather and play, there was a lack of creative momentum. Shinoda explained that the band met Armstrong around 2019 and had been working with her over the years, but they didn't officially call their collaboration Linkin Park until the songs started coming together.
Armstrong, who hails from Los Angeles, expressed her early admiration for Linkin Park and shared her approach to joining the band. She acknowledged the challenge of maintaining her individuality while honoring the emotional legacy left by Bennington.
During the live stream, Shinoda addressed the audience, emphasizing the collective role of fans in carrying on Bennington's spirit. He stated, "In the role of Chester Bennington this afternoon is each of you. Are you ready to sing with us?"
"In the role of Chester Bennington this afternoon is each of you. Are you ready to sing with us?"
As Linkin Park embarks on this new chapter, they continue to honor their legacy while evolving their sound. The band's return has generated excitement among their long-standing fan base, who have eagerly awaited new music and live performances.