The return of Linkin Park: New Music, New Chapter. Between Criticism, Enthusiasm and Old Controversies

Linkin Park have made a dramatic return to the music scene, generating a buzz with their new frontwoman, Emily Armstrong. Their new album, From Zero, and the debut single, The Emptiness Machine, have stirred strong reactions among both fans and critics alike.

Emily Armstrong, already known for her powerful voice as the frontwoman of Dead Sara, brings a gritty vocal style that aligns well with Linkin Park’s signature sound. Her raspy tone serves as a compelling legacy for the unforgettable Chester Bennington. In the new single, her style emerges as a perfect fusion of rock and metal elements, showcasing the band’s musical evolution.

They tried out several new singers to see who had the right chemistry. Armstrong was first invited to a three-day try-out in 2019, but it wasn’t until “this time last year” that she began recording with the band in earnest.

However, as soon as the announcement was made, a torrent of criticism emerged over Armstrong’s alleged ties to the Church of Scientology and her past support for convicted rapist Danny Masterson.

A New Era for Linkin Park:

The arrival of Emily marks a new chapter for Linkin Park. Chester Bennington will always be an integral part of the band’s history and legacy. With Emily at the helm, the band is attempting to transform their past into a pathway for renewal. As Mike Shinoda, the band’s founder, stated:

“For many fans who grew up with us and with Chester singing, it’s a big change and an intense emotional moment… the fact that we’re back with someone else singing the songs. I respect that. There are people ready to follow us to the ends of the earth, while for others it’s strange and hard to understand because they never imagined Linkin Park any other way. Our doors are open to those people! You don’t have to change your mind today, but give us a chance!”

Criticisms and Controversies:

Despite the new album’s success, Emily’s inclusion in the band has not been without controversy. Among the harshest criticisms, some fans argue that the decision to continue with a new singer is disrespectful to Chester Bennington’s memory. Chester’s son, Jaime Bennington, expressed strong opposition, accusing Shinoda of exploiting the band for commercial gain and betraying his father’s artistic legacy.

Jaime posted a long statement accusing Shinoda of erasing his father’s legacy and saying the band had “betrayed the trust” of fans.

Mars Volta singer Cedric Bixler-Zavala and his wife, Chrissie Carnell-Bixler, spoke out against Armstrong after she joined the band.

The singer re-shared a post he had written last year on Dead Sara’s Instagram page, saying, “Do your fans know about your friend Danny Masterson? Your rapist friend.”

The post referred to U.S. actor Danny Masterson, former star of That 70s Show, who was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison in 2023 after being convicted of two of three forcible rape charges earlier in the year.

Questions and Responses:

Carnell-Bixler was one of several women who accused Masterson of sexual assault. Although the actor was not convicted on the charges related to her allegations, he was found guilty of charges brought by two other anonymous accusers.

Jaime Bennington questioned why Armstrong had been allowed to join the band under these circumstances, accusing Linkin Park of failing to properly vet her.

The singer posted a statement of her own on Friday, addressing some of the allegations against her.

“Hi, I’m Emily,” she wrote in an Instagram story post. “I’m new to so many of you, and I wanted to clear the air about something that happened a while back.

Several years ago, I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance, and went to one early hearing as an observer.

Soon after, I realized I shouldn’t have. I always try to see the good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since.

To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathize with the victims of these crimes.”

Controversies intensified as news emerged linking Emily Armstrong to the Church of Scientology and past support for Danny Masterson. Emily recently released a public statement denying any current connection with Masterson, expressing full solidarity with the victims, and clarifying that she does not condone any form of abuse.

Linkin Park’s New Voice:

Emily has faced these criticisms with resilience, proving she is ready to carry Chester’s legacy forward without trying to imitate his unique style. At their concerts, her stage presence and vocal strength have positively impressed fans, who reacted with enthusiasm to her debut. She brings new energy to the band, adding modern touches while respecting Linkin Park’s original soul.

A New Album, New Directions:

On November 15, Linkin Park will release From Zero, an album comprising eleven tracks that promise to explore new sounds and themes. The tracklist includes songs like Cut The Bridge, Heavy Is The Crown, and Good Things Go, which seem to reflect the band’s struggle to find a balance between the past and the future. Of course, the opening track is the single, The Emptiness Machine.

Criticisms and Concerns: The Memory of Chester Bennington:

Many criticisms leveled at Linkin Park stem from Chester Bennington’s legacy. For countless fans, Chester represents an irreplaceable icon, and the idea of the band moving on without him is seen as a potential affront to his memory. Some argue that Emily Armstrong’s addition could compromise Chester’s artistic legacy, fearing that this new chapter may overshadow his unique contributions to the band and music.

These concerns are understandable, given Chester’s profound impact on the band and on millions of fans worldwide. His voice and charismatic presence helped define Linkin Park’s identity, making their sound instantly recognizable. Thus, the band’s return with a new frontwoman evokes mixed emotions—a desire to see Linkin Park continue but also a fear that it might, in some way, diminish Chester’s legacy.

Waiting for the end; This is not the end, this is not the beginning:

Linkin Park’s return with Emily Armstrong marks a controversial but necessary chapter in the band’s history. The decision to continue, despite criticism and accusations, reflects the group’s willingness to adapt and find new ways to express their identity. While it is understandable that many fans struggle to accept such a radical change, as Shinoda himself mentioned, change does not always have to be pleasant, but it can be an opportunity to grow.

In conclusion, it is evident that Linkin Park is making a brave effort to renew themselves, keeping the essence of their music alive without denying the past. The journey is undoubtedly challenging, but perhaps this is just the first step toward a new phase of growth and discovery for the band. In a music industry that often celebrates nostalgia, Linkin Park chooses to move forward, and although there are many obstacles, they are charting a course that could lead to an authentic and inspiring artistic rebirth.

Without a doubt, no one can or will ever replace their former frontman; as the legendary Queen said in their iconic 1991 single, “the show must go on.” The band faces the future with a smile—perhaps a bittersweet one—but a smile nonetheless. Giving up is not an option, and perhaps Chester himself would not have allowed it.