Linkin Park’s original members are dwindling (Picture: Timothy Norris/Getty Images for Warner Music)
Another of Linkin Park’s founding members will not join the band on their reunion tour amid concerns surrounding new frontwoman Emily Armstrong.
Fans were devastated when they realised original drummer Rob Bourdon had left the group ahead of what has been dubbed ‘Linkin Park 2.0′.
Now, guitarist Brad Delson has revealed he will no longer perform live with the Grammy-winning band he helped form in the early 90s.
Rob, Brad, and co-lead vocalist Mike Shinoda started Linkin Park when they were in high school together before recruiting current members Joe Hahn and Dave ‘Phoenix’ Farrell.
Beloved frontman Chester Bennington joined the group in 1999 until his death in 2017 prompted a seven-year hiatus from the rock icons.
After Rob’s exit, Brad confirmed he would ‘not be performing on tour in this new chapter’ but wished Linkin Park luck.
Emily Armstrong has joined Linkin Park as their new co-lead vocalist (Picture: James-Minchin-III)
Founding member and guitarist Brad Delson won’t be touring with the band (Picture: Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
His statement read: ‘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.’
Alex Feder, who has been touring with the band as second guitarist for some time, will step up as lead.
Brad, 46, said he was ‘in awe’ of newcomers Colin Brittain and Emily Armstrong, who has been the centre of huge controversy.
Formerly of the band, Dead Sara, Emily was called out for her past links with Scientology and historic support of convicted rapist Danny Masterson.
Backlash had become so intense that the 38-year-old singer took to Instagram to clarify she no longer stands by her comments on the 2020 case involving the That 70s Show actor.
Brad does not appear to have left in connection with Emily joining and stated he admired her and Colin for their ‘talent, passion, and partnership.’
The Numb icon continued: ‘Deep gratitude to all my bandmates for their humility, hard work, and friendship.
‘I’ve always felt deeply connected to and proud of our live performances. 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.’
Only Mike Shinoda of the original lineup is left in the touring group (Picture: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images)
The group has just announced a new album, From Zero, to go along with the tour and it appears that Brad has worked on this and will still feature in the studio for Linkin Park.
Often musicians who no longer enjoy touring will step back and move into a studio-only position but given this is a huge reunion, fans were startled at the decision.
This means that of the trio who originally formed the band – known then as Xero – only Mike remains as a touring member.
Brad signed off: ‘Fresh eyes, honest appreciation, and devoted teamwork have brought us to this special moment. The privilege of sharing our creativity with you.
Linkin Park 2024 Tour Dates
September 11 – Kia Forum, Los Angeles, CA
September 16 – Barclays Center, New York, NY
September 22 – Barclays Arena, Hamburg, Germany
September 24 – The O2, London, UK
September 28 – INSPIRE Arena, Seoul, South Korea
November 11 – Coliseo Medplus, Bogota, Colombia
‘Thank you for joining us on the journey.’
Fans are not impressed with the news, given Rob’s exit and the new vocal lead, stating this might as well be a new band.
‘Just change the name, it’s sadly not Linkin Park anymore,’ commented Daniel Davila on the Instagram announcement.
Thalles de Araujo seconded: ‘Change the name, guys. You’re not Linkin Park.’
‘This really breaks my heart so deep @linkinpark sorry, but this is the worst decision ever,’ added Jenny.
Fans are unhappy with the total band shake up (Picture: AP/Invision)
Linkin Park had been on hiatus since the death of Chester Bennington (Picture: Gary Wolstenholme/Redferns via Getty Images)
However, some fans supported the decision to revamp the lineup to suit the needs of Linkin Park’s members.
Dana Marie wrote: ‘Most of these comments are really sad and prove that 1. You all think LP consisted of only one band member and 2. You are entitled to know someone else’s personal views/opinion and are owed an apology from someone you’ve never even met.
‘Get a grip please, and try to respect their creative journey going forward. I wish them the best of luck. Kick ass @emilyarmstrong 🤘🏻🔥🖤’
Linkin Park’s tour pre-sale begins Thursday, September 12 at 10am via the band’s website.
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