Linkin Park is back on tour, but not without controversy. Founding member Mike Shinoda has opened up about the fan backlash directed at new lead vocalist Emily Armstrong, who joined the band in 2024 — seven years after the tragic death of Chester Bennington.
In a recent interview with The Guardian published on July 18, 2025, Shinoda explained that some of the criticism hurled at Armstrong stemmed from the fact that she’s a woman, breaking with the band’s original all-male lineup.
“There were people who lashed out at Emily, and it was really because she wasn’t a guy,” said Shinoda. “They were just so uncomfortable with what it was that they chose a ton of things to complain about.”
Emily Armstrong Joins Linkin Park for the From Zero World Tour
Armstrong, 39, previously the frontwoman of the band Dead Sara, officially became Linkin Park’s new lead singer in 2024. She now performs alongside Shinoda, Brad Delson, Dave “Phoenix” Farrell, Joe Hahn, and new drummer Colin Brittain on their From Zero World Tour, which supports their 2024 album of the same name.
Despite the criticism, Armstrong remains grounded, admitting she avoids social media “for mental health purposes.”
“I was a little bit naïve about it, to be honest,” she said. “But I’m old enough to know the difference between real life and the internet.”
“Not About Erasing the Past,” Says Shinoda
Linkin Park’s return to the stage has sparked mixed reactions, especially from longtime fans still grieving the loss of Chester Bennington, who passed away in 2017.
However, Shinoda made it clear that the band’s new direction is not about replacing Chester, but about moving forward with respect.
“It is not about erasing the past,” Shinoda told fans during their tour kickoff at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. “It is about starting this new chapter into the future.”
The crowd’s response has been mostly positive at live shows, with Armstrong winning over new fans at each stop. Shinoda emphasized that their focus is on delivering a “really good vibes” experience for concertgoers.
Tour Continues Across North and South America
Linkin Park’s From Zero World Tour 2025 is in full swing, with dozens of North American stops planned through September, including major cities like:
Philadelphia
Chicago
Toronto
Nashville
Denver
Sacramento
After North America, the band will tour South America in October, wrapping in Brazil before heading to Europe in 2026.
Final Thoughts: A Bold New Chapter
Emily Armstrong’s addition to Linkin Park marks a significant evolution for the band. While some fans remain skeptical, others are embracing the fresh energy and new music.
Mike Shinoda and the band are clear: Linkin Park isn’t replacing the past — they’re building a new future.
