‘I will not be performing on tour in this new chapter’
One of Linkin Park’s founding members will not be joining the band for their upcoming tour after they announced their reunion.
Last week, the band announced in a livestream event that they were reuniting seven years on from the death of original lead vocalist Chester Bennington.
The live event saw Emily Armstrong unveiled as the new co-vocalist of Linkin Park. The only other apparent change to the band’s original lineup was Colin Brittain replacing Rob Bourdon as drummer.
Original members Mike Shinoda, Dave “Phoenix” Farrell and Joe Hahn are all been set to return for the reunion tour.
However, there’s one founding member who won’t be returning on-stage as part of the lineup: guitarist Brad Delson.
In a statement posted on the band’s Instagram account following the news of the reunion, Delson said: “Beyond excited to share this new chapter with the world.
“Bringing our vision to life is the culmination of many twists and turns, as we continue our unique journey together as a band. We couldn’t do it without a belief in what is possible, even when things seem impossible; without the ability to listen, particularly when emotions run deep; and without the support and love of everyone around us. Thank you thank you thank you.”
He went on to say that he is “in awe” of new additions Armstrong and Brittain for their “talent, passion and partnership.”
“I’ve always felt deeply connected to and proud of our live performances,” he continued. “Over the years I’ve realized I thrive most when I’m actively working with my bandmates behind the scenes – in the studio, collaborating on our new music, and helping build our live show.
“I am so proud of everything we continue to create together.”
Delson confirmed that his “handsome deputy” Alex Feder, who has been touring as as the band’s second guitarist, would be replacing him in the on-stage lineup.
He described Feder as a “world-class musician, a kind and thoughtful friend, and we are truly fortunate he’ll be contributing his unique talent to our LP universe.”
He finished by saying: “Fresh eyes, honest appreciation, and devoted teamwork have brought us to this special moment. The privilege of sharing our creativity with you. Thank you for joining us on the journey.”
Delson, Bourdon and Shinoda started the nu-metal group in high school before recruiting Hahn and Farrell.
Bennington then joined in 1999 before his death by suicide in 2017 caused the band to go on hiatus.
Linkin Park confirmed their reunion with an hour-long livestream performance in which they performed some of their biggest songs, including ‘Numb’ and ‘In the End,’ alongside their new single ‘Emptiness Machine.’
Along with the news of their reunion last week, the group also confirmed they would be releasing a new album, titled ‘From Zero,’ on November 15, and announced a six-date world tour for the coming month.
The tour includes a date at the O2 in London on September 24.
In a statement confirming their reunion, Shinoda said: “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.”
He added: “The more we worked with Emily and Colin, the more we enjoyed their world-class talents, their company, and the things we created. We feel really empowered with this new lineup and the vibrant and energized new music we’ve made together. We’re weaving together the sonic touchpoints we’ve been known for and still exploring new ones.
