On Sep. 5, 2024, Emily Armstrong was introduced as the new co-lead vocalist for Linkin Park, stepping into the role that Chester Bennington left behind. Born in the early 2000s, Linkin Park made its debut with the album ‘Hybrid Theory,’ becoming an instant hit. But after frontman Bennington committed suicide in 2017, many believed that it would be the end of Linkin Park. But after seven years, Linkin Park has decided to finally regroup, with their new singer: Armstrong. 

This brought a lot of different reactions from fans, with some on board and others questioning the decision. Bennington was an iconic figure, with a lot of fans relating his voice to the essence of Linkin Park. Although different, Armstrong still brings the same mood and quality that Bennington brought, being able to transition between loud and powerful to weak and vulnerable. 

“When I started to hear Emily’s voice on things, it was like the first time that my brain would accept it as a Linkin Park song,” said co-vocalist Mike Shinoda.

From her introduction, Armstrong has performed many of Bennington’s songs on stage, meeting the expectation of fans. However, some fans have found Armstrong’s background to be questionable. Armstrong is known to have had a connection with the Church of Scientology, an organisation that is infamous for mistreating its members and other controversial acts. Furthermore, Armstrong has previously supported Danny Masterson during the actors rape trial. With these accusations, Armstrong responded explaining their side of their story. 

“Several years ago, I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance, and went to one early hearing as an observer,” Armstrong said, “Soon after, I realized I shouldn’t have. I always try to see the good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since. Unimaginable details emerged and he was later found guilty”

Still, some fans are still questioning the inclusion of Armstrong into the band. Additionally, some fans are afraid that Armstrong would tarnish Bennington’s history. This is mostly because fans believe that Linkin Park is not Linkin Park without Bennington, so replacing him with Armstrong would effectively erase his legacy. Although Shinoda assures fans that their intention isn’t about forgetting the past. 

“It is not about erasing the past. It is about starting this new chapter into the future and coming out here for each and every one of you.”

While Armstrong brings a lot of controversy, she is still able to fulfill her new role as lead singer. Moreover, fans are still excited for Linkin Park to be back, and the band has already released new songs and the album “From Zero.” Whether or not these controversies get resolved, many fans are happy to see Linkin Park back on stage.