Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park explained that he didn’t want a new vocalist who sounded like late singer Chester Bennington, saying it “weirds him out” and that he prefers Emily Armstrong to bring her own voice to the band’s new music.

Mike Shinoda, the co-founder of Linkin Park, recently clarified his perspective on the search for a vocalist to contribute to the band’s new music following the passing of Chester Bennington. Shinoda emphasized that he’s not looking for someone to imitate Chester’s iconic voice.

He expressed that such an approach feels unnatural and even “weirds him out,” as it wouldn’t honor the unique identity and legacy Chester brought to the band. Instead, Shinoda values authenticity and originality, stating his preference for someone like Emily Armstrong, known for her work with Dead Sara, to bring her own distinctive style and energy to the music.

This stance reflects Linkin Park’s evolving creative direction, as they aim to honor their past while exploring new artistic horizons. Shinoda’s openness to different vocal styles demonstrates his commitment to authenticity and his desire to allow new collaborators to express themselves fully, rather than merely replicate what has been done before.

For fans, this decision highlights the band’s intention to innovate and grow, keeping the spirit of their music alive in a fresh and meaningful way. It also underscores the importance of individuality and creativity in Linkin Park’s ongoing journey, ensuring that their music remains a genuine reflection of who they are now, rather than an attempt to recreate the past.