Linkin Park Debuts New Singer, Performs “Numb” at First Tour Since Chester Bennington’s Death

Back in May 2017, Linkin Park released their seventh studio album One More Light. At the time, the album gained high praise from fans as it added to the long list of accomplishments from the band. Although many loved the album, it would mark the last time Linkin Park entered the studio as singer Chester Bennington took his life not long after. Dealing with the loss of a loved one, the band decided to take a break from the studio. Although still missing Bennington, the band decided to test the waters when they announced their return with Emily Armstrong taking over for the late singer.

There have been more than a few rumors circulating Linkin Park over the last week. With rumors swirling that the band looked to return to the stage, fans anxiously awaited any news. And thankfully, the rumors were true as Linkin Park announced their new additions to the band. And that wasn’t all as they also revealed a new album called From Zero. Releasing in November, it seems the group will also helm a string of shows that have them traveling all over the world.

[RELATED: On This Day: Linkin Park’s Chester Bennington Passes Away in 2017, Fans Remember His Legacy]

Fans Split Over Linkin Park News

Looking online, fans voiced their opinions about Linkin Park welcoming not only Armstrong but also producer Colin Brittain, who will play drums. Sharing his thoughts about the future of Linkin Park, Mike Shinoda wrote in a statement, “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.”

As for fans, they shared their opinions about the future of Linkin Park online, writing, “I liked her voice, I need / want to hear new songs, I think chester must be happy his band finally could move forward. yes, no one could replacing chester, but LP need to move forward.” Another person added, “She was a little shaky for the first few tracks, but I think she really settled into the role on Numb. No one can replace Chester, which goes without saying, but if the band wants to keep making music and playing music, then I love to see it and respect them for it. Keep going.”

Not all fans were excited about the news. “I don’t like it. From an OG fan.” And one fan insisted, “Linkin Park has become a cover band for Linkin Park.”

(Photo by Timothy Norris/Getty Images for Warner Music)