Jaime Bennington criticises Linkin Park’s new co-vocalist decision
Jaime Bennington calls out Linkin Park over new vocalist choice
Warning: This article discusses suicide, which may be distressing for some readers.
Jaime Bennington, son of the late Chester Bennington, has criticised Linkin Park’s decision to introduce a new co-vocalist.
On 5 September, Linkin Park revealed Emily Armstrong from Dead Sara would join them as the new vocalist, alongside Colin Brittain as the new drummer.
The announcement came with a new single, ‘The Emptiness Machine,’ marking their first release in seven years. The track serves as the lead single for their upcoming album From Zero, set for release on 15 November, their first full-length project since 2017.
Jaime Bennington, Chester's son, criticized Linkin Park's hiring of Emily Armstrong as their new singer. pic.twitter.com/VmJNv7DZLS
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Fans online were divided over Armstrong’s inclusion. Some praised her vocal skills, while others were wary of her stepping into Bennington’s role. Bennington, the band’s lead singer, was found dead by suicide at his home in Palos Verdes Estates, California, in July 2017.
Earlier today, Jaime criticised the band’s decision on his Instagram Stories. He accused co-founder Mike Shinoda of ‘quietly erasing my father’s life and legacy in real time…during international suicide prevention month.’
Jaime also disapproved of Armstrong’s past, pointing to her connection to the Church of Scientology and her support of That ’70s Show actor Danny Masterson, who was convicted of rape and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison last year.
In another story, Jaime said Linkin Park ‘failed to address the concerns of their diverse fan base’ and that their recent actions ‘are not something people should acclimate to.’
He added that the band had ‘betrayed the trust’ of their fans, who ‘trusted you to be the bigger, better person. To be the change. Because you promised us that was your intention.’
“Now you’re just senile and tone deaf,” he concluded.
In response to concerns about her supposed friendship with Masterson, Armstrong issued a statement on 6 September.
On Instagram, Armstrong wrote: “Several years ago, I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance and attended one early hearing as an observer. Soon after, I realised 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 empathise with the victims of these crimes,” she added.
Linkin Park’s world tour is set to begin on 11 September in Los Angeles, followed by stops in NYC, Germany, the UK, South Korea, and Colombia.
What Other Media Are Saying
- GagaDaily discusses Chester Bennington’s son Jaime slamming Linkin Park’s new lineup, accusing Mike Shinoda of erasing his father’s legacy and hiring a Scientologist who supported a convicted rapist.(read more)
- Rolling Stone reports that Chester Bennington’s son, Jaime, has slammed Linkin Park for replacing his late father with new vocalist Emily Armstrong, accusing the band of betraying the trust of their fanbase and erasing his father’s legacy.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who is the new vocalist for Linkin Park?
Emily Armstrong from Dead Sara.
What criticisms did Jaime Bennington have about the new vocalist?
He criticized the decision, citing erasure of his father’s legacy and Armstrong’s past connections.
What is the title of Linkin Park’s new single?
‘The Emptiness Machine.’
When is Linkin Park’s new album releasing?
November 15.
What did Emily Armstrong say about her connection to Danny Masterson?
She regretted supporting him and clarified she does not condone abuse or violence.
