Linkin Park Member Reveals True Feelings on Band’s Reinvention originally appeared on Parade.
Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda is shedding light on how the band is reshaping its legacy after the devastating loss of their frontman, Chester Bennington.
In a recent interview with KROQ, Shinoda, 48, opened up about the band’s decision to push forward and reinvent itself, including the addition of Emily Armstrong, co-founder of Dead Sara, as the new front woman.
Reflecting on their journey, Shinoda shared that the band could have easily walked away after Bennington’s death but chose instead to continue. “That is such a sh**ty way for the band to end or stop making new music. That is an awful story. No one wants to read that book,” he remarked. “We took huge risks on this.”
Shinoda went on to acknowledge the mixed reactions from long-time fans, admitting they were prepared for the criticism. “If anyone thinks that we didn’t think of those things, they’re crazy. We live and breathe this band,” he said, adding that the new lineup and sound may alienate some fans but could attract new ones. “That person’s gonna get replaced by ostensibly a 15-year-old girl who’s, like… ‘I wanna learn to play guitar now.'”
Linkin Park’s latest project, From Zero, marks a return to the spotlight after seven years, with a No. 1 single, “The Emptiness Machine.” The album, which dropped in 2024, has not only garnered critical praise but also helped the band surpass two billion streams. Along with Armstrong and Shinoda, the current lineup includes bassist Dave “Phoenix” Farrell, guitarist Brad Delson, drummer Colin Brittain, and DJ Joe Hahn.
Bennington tragically died by suicide on July 20, 2017, at the age of 41. His body was found at his home in Palos Verdes Estates and shocked the music world, especially since it occurred on what would have been the birthday of his close friend and fellow musician, Chris Cornell, who had also taken his own life just two months prior.
Linkin Park Member Reveals True Feelings on Band’s Reinvention first appeared on Parade on Jul 21, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 21, 2025, where it first appeared.