Linkin Park perform a finale-worthy rendition of The Emptiness Machine, captivating an audience of 90,000 spectators during their packed show at London's famed Wembley Stadium this summer.
Linkin Park's New Era: Emily Armstrong and the Controversy
Linkin Park, the iconic American rock band, has embarked on a new era with the appointment of Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist. This change was officially announced with the release of "The Emptiness Machine," the lead single from their comeback record, "From Zero" [1][2][3].
The news was met with a mix of reactions, with some fans expressing enthusiasm for the band's fresh direction, while others voiced significant controversy and backlash. A major point of contention was Armstrong's past association with Danny Masterson, the now-convicted rapist actor [1][2][3][4].
Armstrong, who previously supported Masterson, has faced criticism and backlash from fans and the public alike. In response, she issued a public apology, acknowledging that she had "misjudged" Masterson [2]. Through social media, she attempted to clear the air and express regret over her prior actions related to the trial.
The backlash over Armstrong's connection to Masterson created a significant stir on social media and among fans, complicating her integration into the band [2]. It's worth noting that Armstrong has also been linked to Scientology in the past, another factor that some fans found discomforting [4].
Mike Shinoda, co-vocalist of Linkin Park, has not made any detailed public comments specifically addressing the backlash against Armstrong. The focus in available sources is primarily on Armstrong's own response and the fan reactions rather than on Shinoda's public statements about the controversy [1][2][4].
Despite the controversy, "The Emptiness Machine" has been well-received, both as a standalone single and as the opening track on "From Zero." The album entered the UK album chart at number one and topped album sales charts in 12 other countries [4].
"From Zero" marks Linkin Park's first record since the death of frontman Chester Bennington in 2017. Alongside Armstrong, Colin Britain has been introduced as the new drummer for the band [1]. The album is currently being supported by a North American arena tour [4].
As the band continues to tour and release new music, it remains to be seen how the controversy surrounding Armstrong will evolve. For now, fans can watch the live video for "The Emptiness Machine" and decide for themselves whether the band's new direction is a welcome change or a bridge too far [1].
[1] https://www.billboard.com/music/linkin-park/news/linkin-park-new-vocalist-emily-armstrong-debut-single-the-emptiness-machine-1235059900/ [2] https://www.nme.com/news/music/linkin-park-new-singer-emily-armstrong-addresses-danny-masterson-controversy-3676844 [3] https://www.spin.com/2024/09/linkin-park-new-singer-emily-armstrong-danny-masterson-controversy/ [4] https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/linkin-park-new-singer-emily-armstrong-danny-masterson-controversy-1235059900/
- Emily Armstrong, the newly appointed vocalist for Linkin Park, was linked to controversial celebrity Danny Masterson, which led to a controversial reception upon her introduction to the band.
- Following the backlash, Armstrong issued a public apology for her prior association with Masterson, expressing regret for her actions.
- Despite the controversy, "The Emptiness Machine," the lead single from Linkin Park's comeback album "From Zero," received positive reviews, helping the album chart at number one in the UK and topping charts in 12 other countries.
- Colin Britain was also introduced as the new drummer for Linkin Park, joining Armstrong on the new era of the iconic music group.
- As Linkin Park continues their North American arena tour to promote "From Zero," the controversy surrounding Armstrong's connection to Masterson persists, leaving fans to decide for themselves whether the band's new direction is a welcome change or a bridge too far.
- In the realm of entertainment news, critics and fans have been eager for comments from co-vocalist Mike Shinoda addressing the backlash against Armstrong, but so far, his public statements on the issue have been limited.
