**Shockwaves in the Rock World:** One of Linkin Park’s original members is reportedly dropping out of the band’s highly anticipated reunion tour, just as they gear up for a major comeback.
**The Long-Awaited Reunion:** This reunion tour is a huge deal, marking the band’s first major tour since their hiatus following the tragic death of lead singer Chester Bennington in 2017.
**New Faces in the Band:** On September 5, the band introduced their new vocalist, Emily Armstrong of Dead Sara, during a live performance. Fans also got a surprise with the announcement of Colin Brittain joining as their new drummer.
**New Music Unveiled:** The band’s comeback is accompanied by a new single, “The Emptiness Machine,” their first release since Bennington’s death. The single will lead their upcoming album, *From Zero*, set to drop on November 15.
**A Surprising Departure:** But not all is as it seems. Founding guitarist Brad Delson has revealed he will not be joining the reunion tour, leaving fans puzzled and speculating about the reasons behind his decision.
**Delson’s Announcement:** In an Instagram post, Delson expressed excitement about the new chapter for the band, but made it clear he will stay behind the scenes. “I am super excited to introduce Alex – my handsome deputy on the road,” Delson wrote, introducing Alex, a new musician who will fill his spot on tour.
**Behind the Scenes:** Delson elaborated that his choice to skip the tour is unrelated to the ongoing controversies surrounding the band’s new frontwoman. Instead, he cited his strength in working behind the scenes, in the studio, and helping build their live show.
**Brad Delson’s Role:** Delson’s statement also highlighted his ongoing involvement in the band’s creative process and his role in shaping their music and live performances, despite not being on stage himself.
**Controversy Strikes:** The band’s reunion has not been without its controversies. Armstrong has faced backlash due to her past support for convicted rapist Danny Masterson and alleged connections to the Church of Scientology.
**Armstrong’s Defense:** Armstrong addressed the controversy via social media, clarifying that her support for Masterson was a mistake made before she was fully aware of the allegations. She stressed her stance against abuse and violence, and her empathy for victims.
**Fan Reactions:** Fans are divided on Delson’s decision. Some are expressing confusion and disappointment, with a few even suggesting that the band might need to reconsider their name if one of the founding members isn’t touring.
**The Band’s Legacy:** Linkin Park, known for their genre-defining sound and emotional depth, has a legacy that fans feel strongly about. Delson’s absence and the band’s new direction have stirred up mixed emotions among their dedicated fan base.
**Looking Ahead:** As Linkin Park prepares to embark on their reunion tour and new album release, all eyes will be on how they handle the controversies and how their new lineup performs on stage.
**Stay Tuned:** With the tour looming and the album release on the horizon, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how these changes impact Linkin Park’s legendary status and their future in the music industry.