In 2017, popular rock band Linkin Park announced that their frontman Chester Bennington had passed away, and I was devastated. I had grown up on their music, and remember my mom jamming out to their studio album “Hybrid Theory” when I was a kid. They were in my “Top Artists” on Spotify Wrapped for years because there is not a song of theirs that I will turn off. I even had tickets to see them live before they announced Chester’s death. I was shocked and disappointed that I’ll never be able to see one of my all time favorite bands perform. I, as well as millions of other fans, couldn’t help but wonder the next step for Linkin Park. The real question was, who had the voice to replace Chester?

Linkin Park had been quiet in the years following Chester’s passing, except for releasing some old songs that featured his voice. Despite this, everyone had been speculating about a comeback. Would the band use a hologram of him on tour? Would fans perform Chester’s parts? However, on Sept. 5 through a livestream, Linkin Park finally debuted their new lead singer, Emily Armstrong. They also announced their new album, “From Zero,” and an upcoming tour. The band also has a new drummer, Colin Brittain, and they will feature a fill-in guitarist for the tour, as Brad Delson announced he won’t be partaking in the band’s return. This was quite the surprise for Linkin Park fans, and it was a lot to take in at once.

I have heard conflicting opinions from fans on the internet. Some people love Emily’s voice and are excited to get new music. Others have denounced Emily, and questioned her ability to live up to the fanbase’s standards. Many people think she is a replacement that Chester would have been proud of, and others think they should’ve gone in another direction. Truthfully, I can’t imagine a singer that all fans would give a stamp of approval, as Chester feels irreplaceable.

But, after watching Linkin Park’s first live performance, it feels phony. I understand wanting to bring on a female vocalist, and Emily is definitely talented, but I think they could’ve found a singer with much more powerful vocals. Truthfully, I’ve heard Linkin Park covers on YouTube that left me more impressed. Maybe she was just nervous, but the performance left me feeling like something was missing.

Fans have also trudged up Emily’s controversial past, and it makes many wonder if she should even be the face of Linkin Park. Previously, she defended Danny Masterson, a former star of “That ’70s Show,” during his rape accusation trials, over which he was convicted in 2023. According to an article by the BBC, she also has ties to the Church of Scientology, which many fans also frown upon. While the preceding elements don’t affect her vocals, I can understand why many fans are upset by this news, especially when Chester spoke against similar issues.

As a lifelong fan, I expected to feel more excited about the band’s return, because after all, their revival has been something I’ve waited years for. I’ve seen people say that the members of Linkin Park should’ve just started a whole new band, and after listening to their recent project, I agree. While it is undeniable the music has a traditional Linkin Park influence, it just isn’t the same band anymore. It seems like they’re just holding on to the band’s name for increased popularity and media attention. Despite my love for Linkin Park, I don’t think I’ll be buying another ticket to see them live, because frankly, I can’t imagine it would be any different than seeing a cover band.