Linkin Park is back, and honestly, it’s been a wild ride getting here. For a long time, most of us thought the story ended in 2017. When Chester Bennington passed away, the silence from the band felt permanent. But in late 2024, the gears started turning again. If you’ve been looking for the Linkin Park names of band members lately, you might notice the roster looks a bit different than the one you grew up with on Hybrid Theory or Meteora.
The band isn't just a nostalgia act. They’ve fundamentally shifted. They’ve added new voices and new energy, while some familiar faces have moved into the background. It’s a lot to keep track of, especially with the 2026 tour dates currently rolling out.
The Current 2026 Lineup: Who’s on Stage?
Right now, the official Linkin Park lineup consists of six core members. However, there’s a catch regarding who you’ll actually see if you buy a ticket to one of their shows this year.
- Mike Shinoda: The glue. He’s still the co-lead vocalist, rapper, and the guy playing keyboards and rhythm guitar. Basically, Mike is the architect of the band’s sound.
- Emily Armstrong: The new co-lead vocalist. She joined in 2024 and comes from the band Dead Sara. She’s taken on the massive task of singing the parts originally voiced by Chester, while also bringing her own gritty, alt-rock style to the new record, From Zero.
- Joe Hahn: Also known as Mr. Hahn. He’s the DJ and the man behind the samples and programming. If you hear those iconic scratches or atmospheric electronic layers, that’s him.
- Dave "Phoenix" Farrell: The bassist. He’s been a staple for decades, and he’s still holding down the low end.
- Brad Delson: The lead guitarist. Now, here is where it gets slightly confusing. Brad is still an official member of the band and contributes to all the studio recordings. But he doesn't tour anymore. He decided that he "thrives most" working behind the scenes, so while his name is on the album, you won’t see him on the 2026 world tour.
- Colin Brittain: The new drummer. He replaced original drummer Rob Bourdon. Colin isn't just a guy hitting the skins; he’s a songwriter and producer who has worked with artists like G Flip and One OK Rock.
What Happened to the Original Members?
It’s impossible to talk about the Linkin Park names of band members without acknowledging the people who aren't there anymore. The most obvious absence is, of course, Chester Bennington. His death in 2017 was the reason for the seven-year hiatus. The band was very clear that they weren't trying to "replace" him, but rather find a way to move forward with a new chapter.
📖 Related: Who is Really in the Enola Holmes 2 Cast? A Look at the Faces Behind the Mystery
Then there’s Rob Bourdon. When the band decided to regroup, Rob chose to step away. Mike Shinoda mentioned in interviews that Rob had been distancing himself from the band for a few years and simply wanted to move on to other things. It was a clean break, but definitely a shock to fans who saw him as a founding pillar.
And let's not forget the "pre-fame" days. Before Chester, there was Mark Wakefield. Back when the band was called Xero in the late 90s, Mark was the lead singer. He eventually left because the band wasn't getting any traction, which led them to recruit Chester from Arizona. Mark actually stayed friends with the guys and even designed some of their later album art.
Why the New Members Matter
Bringing in Emily Armstrong was a controversial move for some. It’s a tough spot to be in—stepping into the shoes of a legend. But musically, she fits. She has a raw, screaming range that hits the nu-metal notes but doesn't sound like a Chester impersonator.
👉 See also: Priyanka Chopra Latest Movies: Why Her 2026 Slate Is Riskier Than You Think
Colin Brittain brings a different vibe to the drums too. He’s more of a "producer-minded" drummer. Since Linkin Park has always been a mix of organic rock and electronic production, having a drummer who understands the tech side of things has changed the way they play live.
The Touring Secret: Alex Feder
Since Brad Delson stays home to work in the studio, the band needs someone to actually play those lead guitar parts live. That person is Alex Feder. While he isn't considered an "official" member of the band in the sense that he's in the press photos or writing the albums, he is the guy you’ll see on stage shredding the solo to "Faint" or "Papercut."
Actionable Insights for Fans
If you're following the band in 2026, here’s how to stay updated:
✨ Don't miss: Why This Is How We Roll FGL Is Still The Song That Defines Modern Country
- Check the Tour Personnel: If you're going to a show, don't be surprised when Alex Feder is on guitar instead of Brad Delson. It’s been the standard since the From Zero tour started.
- Listen to From Zero: To understand the new dynamic between Mike and Emily, listen to the 2024 album. It’s the best way to hear how the current Linkin Park names of band members actually function as a unit.
- Follow the "LPU": The Linkin Park Underground is still the best place for the most accurate, member-specific news. They often release "making-of" footage that shows the new members' creative process.
The band has changed, but the name stays the same. Whether you're a "soldier" from the 2000s or a new fan, knowing who is behind the curtain makes the music hit a little differently.
To stay on top of the latest lineup shifts and tour updates, monitor the official Linkin Park website for 2026 press releases.