Linkin Park Guitarist Brad Delson Will Sit Out Reunion Tour

2024-09-09

Classic Linkin Park lineup. Linkin Park guitarist Brad Delson said he wouldn't be participating in the group's much-anticipated upcoming comeback tour.

Linkin Park guitarist Brad Delson says he wouldn’t be participating in the group’s much-anticipated upcoming comeback tour – Author: Cat Badra, Photo via Brandon Cox

Linkin Park are back on the road for the first time since 2017, in the form of a major reunion tour with a new vocalist, new drummer and, now, new lead guitarist. In a statement released Friday, Sept. 6, Linkin Park guitarist Brad Delson said he wouldn’t be participating in the group’s much-anticipated upcoming comeback tour. But, he’ll still be involved, just behind the scenes.

“Over the years I’ve realized I thrive most when I’m actively working with my bandmates behind the scenes—in the studio, collaborating on our new music, and helping build our live show,” Delson said in a message posted on Instagram.

Alex Feder will step in as Linkin Park’s new touring guitarist for the upcoming shows, until further notice. He performed for his first time with Linkin Park alongside fellow new members Emily Armstrong, the group’s new co-singer with longtime band member Mike Shinoda, and drummer Colin Brittain during Linkin Park’s livestream set on Thursday, Sept. 5.

“I am so proud of everything we continue to create together,” Delson continued in his statement about not being on tour with the band. “While I will not be performing on tour in this new chapter, I am super excited to introduce Alex—my handsome deputy on the road. Alex is a world-class musician, a kind and thoughtful friend, and we are truly fortunate he’ll be contributing his unique talent to our LP universe.”

He added, “Fresh eyes, honest appreciation, and devoted teamwork have brought us to this special moment. The privilege of sharing our creativity with you. Thank you for joining us on the journey.”

Linkin Park’s new live lineup brings together Armstrong, Brittain, Feder, Shinoda, Joe Hahn and Dave Farrell. Of the new lineup, Shinoda said in a statement, “The more we worked with Emily and Colin, the more we enjoyed their world-class talents, their company, and the things we created. We feel really empowered with this new lineup and the vibrant and energized new music we’ve made together. We’re weaving together the sonic touchpoints we’ve been known for and still exploring new ones.”

As for the new album’s name, Shinoda explained, “Before Linkin Park, our first band name was Xero. This album title refers to both this humble beginning and the journey we’re currently undertaking. Sonically and emotionally, it is about past, present, and future—embracing our signature sound, but new and full of life. It was made with a deep appreciation for our new and longtime bandmates, our friends, our family, and our fans. We are proud of what Linkin Park has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead.”

The group currently has just six arena shows planned around the world that lead up to the release of their new studio album, “From Zero,” which will arrive on Nov. 15. The group will also head out on a longer tour in 2025, with dates pending.

Cat Badra
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