Erik Grönwall, former Skid Row vocalist, announced his temporary departure from the Michael Schenker Band in a Facebook statement.
“Twenty minutes before the show in Vienna, I got a call from my family and friends – my dad had been rushed to the hospital in an ambulance, unable to stand on his left leg,” Grönwall said. “Fast forward to today, and it’s been decided he’ll undergo heart surgery.”
“There are risks involved due to his age and health history. The doctors have been transparent with us, and while there’s hope, there’s also uncertainty,” he continued. “I’ve made the decision to fly home today (Sunday May 4th) to be by his side. I need to support him, my family, and to be fully present for whatever comes.”
“The Michael Schenker tour will continue according to plan. I’m incredibly grateful to vocalist Roberto Dimitri Liapakis (Lia) for stepping in to cover for me,” Grönwall stated. “I won’t be doing the shows in Madrid and Barcelona, but I plan to rejoin for the UK shows. I’ll keep you posted. Right now, I need to show up, not as a performer, but as a son.”
Roberto Dimitri Liapakis will handle the upcoming shows in Madrid and Barcelona during Grönwall’s absence.
This development emerges during a challenging period in Grönwall’s career. His journey has been marked by both professional achievements and personal health battles.
Blabbermouth reported that Grönwall stepped away from Skid Row in March 2024. He needed to focus on his recovery from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, diagnosed in 2021.
Loudwire highlighted Grönwall’s remarkable journey in music. His connection to Skid Row started in 2009 when he performed their hit ’18 and Life’ on Swedish Idol. This early performance led to his role as their frontman in 2022.
MetalTalk documented Grönwall’s commitment to balancing his career with health priorities. His experiences have shaped his current perspective.
“I’ve got so much more perspective now,” Grönwall shared with MetalTalk. “Sometimes you have to take a step back to move forward. That’s exactly what I’m doing.”
After the Madrid and Barcelona shows, Schenker will move to the UK with his band.
