The late Linkin Park vocalist Chester Bennington’s son has spoken out against the band’s choice to replace his father, saying he does not ‘feel secure’.
Linkin Park has announced their first album and tour after singer Chester Bennington died by suicide in 2017.
The band announced a new lineup that includes Dead Sara’s Emily Armstrong as lead singer and drummer Colin Brittain.
Mike Shinoda, co-founder and co-lead vocalist of Linkin Park, said in a statement about their resurrection and new era: “Before Linkin Park, our first band name was Xero.” This album’s title speaks to both the humble beginning and the adventure we’re now on.
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“Sonically and emotionally, it is about the past, present, and future – embracing our unique sound while keeping it fresh and alive. It was created with a heartfelt respect for our new and long-term bandmates, friends, family, and fans.
“We are proud of what Linkin Park has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead.”
Chester Bennington’s 28-year-old son, Jaime Bennington, criticized Linkin Park for ‘quietly [erasing] my father’s life and legacy in real time… during international suicide prevention month’.
He also criticized Armstrong for her legal backing for convicted rapist Danny Masterson and purported ties to the Church of Scientology.
Armstrong has recently issued an online statement stating that she was ‘invited to assist someone I considered a friend during a court hearing’.
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She also stated that she was unaware of the gravity of the claims against Masterson at the time of his rape conviction, which resulted in a 30-year to life sentence.
Following his public attack on the band, Bennington stated that the criticism made him ‘feel unsafe’ attending a Linkin Park show on general admission.
In an Instagram Story, he wrote: “There are many individuals that dislike me. There are a lot of individuals saying terrible things to me right now.
“To be honest, I don’t think I feel safe going to the show under general admission because I don’t know who I’m around.”
Bennington stated that he still felt compelled to attend the event, saying: “I don’t know who would recognize me or take it upon themselves to respond to me aggressively when I’m only there to witness the show. But I really need to watch it.
Speaking about the hate he has received online since his comments, the 28-year-old added: “The audience itself may be dangerous for me. … I believe it is vital to acknowledge the gravity of my circumstance and the manner in which people choose to connect with me.
“So many of these Linkin Park fans who will be attending have been cruel, unusual and aggressive.”
Linkin Park rose to prominence in the 2000s with the release of their album Hybrid Theory.
They stopped recording and touring in 2017 following Bennington’s suicide, but revealed earlier this month that they will release a new album and tour this year.
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