Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda has praised the band’s new vocalist Emily Armstrong, comparing her vocal abilities to those of late frontman Chester Bennington in a recent interview with Spin.
Shinoda discussed his experience working with Armstrong and how her vocal range compares to Bennington’s capabilities.
“With Chester, I was used to working with someone who I could give any vocal idea to and he would be able to handle just about anything,” Shinoda said.
The Linkin Park co-founder explained his process of finding a new vocalist after Bennington’s passing.
“Every week I’d do a few sessions with different singers, different writers, and I’d go to that place: ‘Oh, I have this idea. Can you sing this?’ They’d sing it, and I’d be like, ‘Ah, hmm, interesting’—not ‘Wow, insane,'” he continued.
Shinoda then described his first impression of working with Armstrong.
“Then I met Emily and I did that process with her and I was like, ‘Oh, we’re back to almost unlimited,'” he said. “She doesn’t sound like Chester; she sounds like Emily. But I won’t run out of things to try because she can just do it all.”
Armstrong’s addition to Linkin Park represents a significant milestone for the band. The group had remained largely inactive following Bennington’s death in 2017. Her vocal capabilities have become a defining factor in the group’s return to the music scene.
Armstrong brings a distinctive vocal approach that sets her apart from her predecessor. She maintains the intensity Linkin Park fans expect. Vocal analysis experts noted that Armstrong’s style features a broader, chesty grit that suits the band’s music well. It brings a distinctive edge without attempting to imitate Chester’s exact sound.
The new vocalist’s technical abilities have impressed both critics and fans alike. Vocal range specialists reported that Armstrong possesses an impressive vocal range spanning from C3 to D6. She demonstrates significant high notes that contribute to her versatility on stage.
Music analysts have noted similarities between Armstrong’s vocal technique and other notable rock vocalists. Vocal coaches on social media observed that Armstrong’s vocal technique has drawn comparisons to notable vocalists like Jared Leto and even Kurt Cobain. This highlights her ability to channel different rock vocal traditions.
Armstrong’s integration into Linkin Park marks the band’s official return to active touring and recording. This ends a seven-year hiatus that began after Bennington’s passing. The band’s decision to move forward with Armstrong signals their commitment to continuing their musical legacy while honoring their late frontman’s memory.
