THE BEAST

In a recent interview with Derek Scancarelli of Forbes, KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons shared his thoughts on LINKIN PARK’s recent decision to reform with a new vocalist, Emily Armstrong. Armstrong, known for her work with the band Dead Sara, has officially stepped in as LINKIN PARK's new frontwoman, filling the void left by the late Chester Bennington.

Simmons, never one to shy away from offering opinions on the rock scene, gave the new lineup his full support. "I listened. I saw some videos. The new female singer, great! She fits the band. She sounds great and good luck to them," Simmons said. "Life is short. Go out there and live it up, enjoy it. LINKIN PARK got fans. They want to hear the songs and the music. Why not?"

Simmons, who has been in the rock industry for decades, pointed out how many bands have evolved through significant lineup changes. He compared LINKIN PARK’s new direction to legendary acts like LYNYRD SKYNYRD and AC/DC, emphasizing that despite losing key members, these bands have continued to perform and maintain their fanbase. He highlighted how certain "rules" of rock are meant to be broken, citing examples like AC/DC's survival post-Bon Scott and VAN HALEN's success with Sammy Hagar after David Lee Roth left.

"All these 'rules.' GENESIS, they lose Peter Gabriel, 'It's over!' Nope. Once Gabriel left, GENESIS became a stadium band with a drummer who came up from the back. All those 'rules' — who made the rules anyway? In rock and roll, there are no rules."

The choice to bring in Armstrong, a female vocalist, has been divisive among some LINKIN PARK fans, particularly due to her ties to Scientology. However, Simmons dismissed the controversy. "I know all about Scientology... I get it. I understand and have read deeply into that. I'm not a follower, but good luck! Life is short. Believe whatever you want, worship a rock or an alien, whatever floats your boat."

Simmons confidently predicted that LINKIN PARK's decision will ultimately be validated by ticket sales and fan reception. "No matter what the Internet says, no matter what these 'thousands' of people who bark the loudest — the smallest dog barks the loudest. The great silent majority... buy tickets. So, if they — and they will — sell lots of tickets, LINKIN PARK, then the public has spoken. End of story. And they will do great."

LINKIN PARK officially began their comeback with a mini-tour, launching at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, on September 11. The show featured a two-hour set in a rare rectangular stage setting, offering fans a unique experience. Along with Armstrong, drummer Colin Brittain has joined returning members Mike Shinoda, Dave "Phoenix" Farrell, and Joe Hahn. Guitarist Alex Feder filled in for Brad Delson during the show and is expected to continue touring with the band.

Mike Shinoda recently spoke to Billboard about the band's new chapter, revealing that founding drummer Rob Bourdon decided to exit the band ahead of the comeback.

With Armstrong now front and center, LINKIN PARK's new chapter is beginning to take shape, and with industry veterans like Gene Simmons backing them, it seems the band is ready to continue their legacy in a bold new direction.