Real Reason Why Emily Armstrong Joined Linkin Park, Explained
- Linkin Park wished to go on but couldn't figure out how to.
- The band recently welcomed two new members into the foray - drummer Colin Brittain and singer Emily Armstrong.
- Fans have been unhappy with Armstrong's entry since she allegedly supported Danny Masterson during his trial.
After their lead vocalist, Chester Bennington, died by suicide seven years ago, the band Linkin Park was left without a direction. Fans of the band have been utterly heartbroken ever since. However, Linkin Park was determined to keep the show going, even though they had no idea how to.
The band played a tribute concert back in 2017, but have since fallen into the shadows of obscurity. Their music continues to make people’s heads bop and stir heavy emotions, something the band wants to continue doing. Hence, Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Joe Hahn, and Dave “Phoenix” Farrell welcomed two new bandmates – drummer Colin Brittain and singer Emily Armstrong.
Emily Armstrong Performs First Show with Linkin Park
In early September in Los Angeles, the bandmates of Linkin Park gathered with two new members and a horde of their fans to perform their first show in over seven years. The event also marked the formal entry of Emily Armstrong and drummer Colin Brittain into Linkin Park. While most fans believe nobody can ever replace the legacy of Chester Bennington, some are confident that Armstrong comes close to filling his shoes.
The singer first came into the limelight with her band, Dead Sara, which she initiated with her childhood friend. However, the band did not manage to take off as well as they hoped. Hence, when in 2019, Mike Shinoda asked Armstrong to join them for a test session, she was more than happy to do so. Not to mention, the band tried to see the chemistry between the various singers and musicians but failed to find someone who could match the classic Linkin Park legacy. Shinoda said,
Certainly, when I started to hear Emily’s voice on things, it was the first time that my brain would accept it as a Linkin Park song. When it was just my voice, I could accept it. But when we put other people on the songs… having Emily’s voice on it over and over again, it went, Yeah, that feels good.
Her ability to dig deep into her soul for emotions while using her raspy voice for the more nuanced aspects of a song really closed the deal for Armstrong. Linkin Park’s band members connected with the singer and thought that she could bring meaningful energy to their set.
Controversy Surrounding Emily Armstrong
All reactions to Armstrong joining Linkin Park have not been positive. Some people have pointed out her alleged links to convicted rapist Danny Masterson who was sentenced to 30 years in prison. Armstrong allegedly supported him during his trial only to realize her mistake when he was found guilty. The singer claims to have not spoken to the That 70s Show actor since then, but fans are having a tough time believing her.
On the other hand, die-hard fans of Linkin Park feel Armstrong can never be as good as Bennington, thus it’s a waste to have anyone else join the band. Her alleged background in Scientology has further angered the fans who believe the band did not do a thorough background check before allowing her to be a part of Linkin Park. The new band lineup announced plans for new albums and a world tour despite the mixed reactions they have received so far.
