During a live performance event on Thursday (September 5), the band revealed Emily Armstrong of Dead Sara as their new vocalist.

Colin Brittain, a songwriter and producer for G Flip, Illenium, and One OK Rock, will join Linkin Park as a drummer.

The momentous news came with the release of a new tune, ‘The Emptiness Machine’, Linkin Park’s first new music in seven years. The band’s next album, From Zero, set for release on November 15, features the music as its lead single.

This is Linkin Park’s first full-length project since Bennington’s death in 2017. In July 2017, authorities discovered him dead at his house in Palos Verdes Estates, California.

The group then went on hiatus, but on August 24, 2024, they updated their website with a cryptic countdown, which probably led to today’s announcement.

The rock band will also embark on a globe tour.

Mike Shinoda, co-founder and co-lead vocalist of Linkin Park, said in a statement about their resurrection and new era: “Before Linkin Park, our first band name was Xero.” The album’s title reflects both its humble origin and its ongoing journey. Sonically and emotionally, it is about the past, the present, and the future, honoring our unique sound while still being fresh and vibrant. We created it with a deep respect for our new and long-term bandmates, friends, family, and fans.

“We are proud of Linkin Park’s history and excited for the future.”

Fans online appear to have varied feelings about the announcement, although many have backed Linkin Park’s choice to include Armstrong in the group.

One Twitter user wrote: “Emily Armstrong is a fairly suitable pick as a replacement vocalist for Linkin Park. I was wary of Linkin Park having a female vocalist, but she sounds fantastic live. It sounds similar to Chester, but it is distinct enough to not be a flagrant imitation.

Another added: “People loathed Adam Lambert when he initially played with Queen; the same will happen with Linkin Park. People will eventually realize that Emily is not taking over for Chester; rather, she and the band are carrying on his legacy. You’re just overly frustrated from nostalgia.”

Linkin Park’s world tour will begin on September 11 in Los Angeles before traveling to New York City, Germany, the United Kingdom, South Korea, and Colombia.

Tickets for general sale will be available on the band’s official website beginning September 7.