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A Deep Dive into the Members of Linkin Park: Past and Present

Linkin Park, one of the most influential rock bands of the 21st century, has undergone significant changes since its formation in 1996. Known for their genre-blending sound that fuses rock, hip-hop, and electronic music that still impacts metal of all genres and influences to this date, the band has seen both continuity and evolution in its lineup. With the newest era involving Emily Armstrong and Colin Brittain now in full force, let's explore the backgrounds, contributions, and creative impacts of all current and former members of Linkin Park, providing a and in depth look at the individuals who have shaped the band’s legacy.

Current Members

Mike Shinoda

Mike Shinoda Talks His 'Therapeutic' Solo Album & the Future of Linkin Park
Greg Doherty/Getty Images

Michael Shinoda, born on February 11, 1977, in Agoura, California, is a founding member and one of the core creative forces behind Linkin Park. Of Japanese descent, Shinoda grew up in a culturally rich environment that shaped his eclectic musical tastes. He began playing piano at a young age and later learned guitar, drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres, including hip-hop, rock, and classical music. Shinoda attended the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, where he met future bandmate Brad Delson. His artistic background is evident in his work, as he has designed much of the band’s album art and merchandise.

Shinoda is a multi-instrumentalist, primarily known as a vocalist, rapper, keyboardist, and rhythm guitarist, and he is also heavily involved in music production. His ability to seamlessly blend rap with rock has been a defining characteristic of Linkin Park’s sound. As the band’s primary songwriter and producer, Shinoda has co-written most of their music spanning from their time as Xero to the latest album, From Zero. Beyond Linkin Park, he has pursued solo projects, including his hip-hop side project Fort Minor, which released the critically acclaimed album The Rising Tied in 2005. For his song on this record, "Kenji," which details The United States government's internment camps for people with Japanese heritage during World War II, Shinoda received a prestigious award at the Japanese American National Museum’s Annual Gala for outstanding contribution.

Following the tragic death of Chester Bennington in 2017, Shinoda released the deeply personal album Post Traumatic in 2018, which addressed his grief and the process of healing. From that release on to the announcement of the return of Linkin Park last year, Shinoad released a wealth of solo music and collaborations, including the main theme song for the massive slasher-horror movie Scream 6 with the track, "In My Head" with Kailee Morgue. Shinoda’s versatility and leadership have been instrumental in shaping Linkin Park’s identity and ensuring their continued relevance.

Brad Delson

Brad Delson on Linkin Park's miraculous comeback & why he quit touring |  Guitar World

Brad Delson, born on December 1, 1977, in Agoura Hills, California, is Linkin Park’s lead guitarist and another founding member. Delson attended the same high school as Mike Shinoda and later studied at UCLA, where he earned a degree in Communication Studies. Known for his melodic and rhythmic guitar playing, Delson’s riffs and solos have been central to the band’s sound, providing the heavy, anthemic backbone of songs across the band's discography, from "Faint" to "Two Faced", "One More Light" and so on. Delson’s guitar work is characterized by its precision and emotional intensity, often serving as the driving force behind the band’s most iconic tracks. The band members can be heard in several interviews and commentaries over the years stating that while the guitar work in Linkin Park is much more reserved than many other rock and metal bands, Delson himself is a virtuoso and can shred with the best of them. We've seen little flares of this on records like The Hunting Party and Minutes to Midnight with some soloing work and more intensive riffs.

Beyond his role as a guitarist, Delson has taken on behind-the-scenes responsibilities, including management and A&R work. He played a key role in signing artists like Machine Gun Kelly to Linkin Park’s label, Machine Shop. Delson’s dedication to both the creative and business aspects of the music industry has made him a key figure in Linkin Park’s success. It was announced that Delson would not be touring with the band with their reunion shows and tours through 2024 and 2025, as Delson stated that he prefers being in the studio and doing important work for the band outside of the tour life. Alex Feder substitutes in for Delson currently for the band's performances.

Joe Hahn

Linkin Park's Joe Hahn to appear as judge on Korean talent show

Joseph Hahn, born on March 15, 1977, in Dallas, Texas, and raised in Glendale, California, is Linkin Park’s DJ and turntablist. Of Korean descent, Hahn studied illustration at the Art Center College of Design, where he met Shinoda and Delson. Hahn’s turntablism and sampling have been crucial in creating the band’s signature sound, blending electronic elements with rock and metal to produce a unique sonic texture. His work on tracks like "Papercut" and "Breaking the Habit" showcases his ability to integrate electronic beats and scratches seamlessly into the band’s music. On the first two albums, Hybrid Theory and Meteora, Hahn was able to showcase his instrumental skills early on with "Cure For The Itch" and "Session," which were the only tracks without the vocals of Bennington and/or Shinoda the band for their highest charting records to date.

In addition to his musical contributions, Hahn has directed many of Linkin Park’s music videos, including "Breaking the Habit," "Two Faced," and "Faint," bringing a distinct visual artistry to the band’s work. His creative vision extends beyond music, as he has also worked on film projects and visual art, including his film, Mall, which includes original songs created with a majority of the other members of Linkin Park. These skills continue to make Hahn a multifaceted contributor to the band’s identity. Hahn’s ability to merge audio and visual elements has been a key factor in Linkin Park’s immersive and innovative approach to their art.

Dave "Phoenix" Farrell

How Dave 'Phoenix' Farrell found his sound with Linkin Park | Guitar World

David Farrell, known as "Phoenix," was born on February 8, 1977, in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and is Linkin Park’s bassist. Farrell moved to California and attended UCLA, where he met Delson and Shinoda. Farrell’s bass lines are often understated but essential, anchoring the band’s sound and allowing the other instruments to shine.

Farrell briefly left the band in the early days to tour with Tasty Snax but returned shortly after the recording of their debut album, Hybrid Theory. His return solidified the band’s classic lineup, and his contributions have been a constant presence throughout their career. Farrell’s calm demeanor and musical versatility have made him an essential part of Linkin Park’s dynamic. Following Chester Bennington's death in 2017, Farrell played a few times on stage with Shinoda for his solo tours, and is one of the founding members to return in 2024 with both writing, recording, and touring on the band's latest record, From Zero.

Emily Armstrong

Linkin Park returns after Chester Bennington death for tour

Emily Armstrong is a relatively new addition to Linkin Park, bringing a fresh perspective and powerful vocals to the group. Born on September 4, 1985, in Los Angeles, California, was best known prior to her announcment with Linkin Park as the lead singer of the rock band Dead Sara. Growing up in the San Fernando Valley, Armstrong was drawn to music from an early age, influenced by the raw energy of rock and roll and the emotional depth of blues. Her powerful voice and commanding stage presence quickly set her apart as a standout talent in the Los Angeles music scene.

Armstrong co-founded Dead Sara in 2002 alongside guitarist Siouxsie Medley. The band, known for their gritty, high-energy rock sound, gained a loyal following with their self-titled debut album in 2012, which featured the hit single "Weatherman." Armstrong’s vocal range and emotive delivery became a defining feature of Dead Sara’s music, earning comparisons to iconic rock vocalists like Janis Joplin and Robert Plant. Over the years, the band has toured extensively and released several albums, including Pleasure to Meet You (2015) and Ain’t It Tragic (2021).

Armstrong’s personal life has occasionally drawn attention, particularly her connection to Scientology. Raised in the Church of Scientology, she has been open about her upbringing but has distanced herself from the organization in recent years. In 2023 and again in 2024 following the Linkin Park announcement, Armstrong found herself at the center of controversy when allegations surfaced linking her to actor Danny Masterson, who was convicted of rape and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison. Some critics speculated about her potential involvement in the case due to her past ties to Scientology, but Armstrong vehemently denied any connection to Masterson or his actions. In a public statement, she clarified that she had no knowledge of or involvement in Masterson’s crimes. Readers can read the further details in the Nu Metal Agenda article here as well as the details of her response. She expressed frustration at being unfairly associated with the scandal and emphasized her commitment to moving forward with her music and career.

While her role in the band is still evolving, her inclusion marks a new chapter for Linkin Park, potentially introducing new influences and directions to their music while still maintaining and respecting the sound that fans and audiences around the world have enjoyed now for multiple decades.

Colin Brittain

Linkin Park is back with a new drummer | Beatit.tv

Colin Brittain is the current drummer for Linkin Park and is a producer and musician who has collaborated with a wide range of artists across genres. Brittain brings a wealth of experience in music production and songwriting. As a multi-instrumentalist proficient in guitar, keyboards, drums, and programming, Brittain’s expertise could play a significant role in shaping the band’s future sound.

Throughout his career, Brittain has worked with an eclectic mix of artists, showcasing his adaptability and wide-ranging musical influences. He has collaborated with pop-punk bands like All Time Low, contributing to their album Last Young Renegade (2017), and with rock acts such as 5 Seconds of Summer, helping to shape their sound on Youngblood (2018). Brittain has also worked with harder rock bands like Shinedown and Papa Roach, demonstrating his ability to navigate different styles and genres with ease.

In addition to his work with established artists, Brittain has been a champion of emerging talent, often collaborating with up-and-coming bands and helping them refine their sound.

Past Members

Chester Bennington

Linkin Park Singer Chester Bennington Dies by Suicide | Teen Vogue
Credit: Burak CIngi/Redferns

Chester Bennington was born on March 20, 1976, in Phoenix, Arizona. He faced a challenging childhood, marked by his parents' divorce when he was 11 years old. Chester was sexually abused by an older male friend during his early teens, a trauma that deeply affected him and later influenced his music. He found solace in art and music, citing bands like

Depeche Mode, Stone Temple Pilots, and The Cure as early inspirations. Chester began singing in high school and joined his first band, Sean Dowdell and His Friends?, in the early 1990s. He later became the vocalist for Grey Daze, a post-grunge band, before his big break came in 1999.

In 1999, Chester auditioned for Linkin Park (then known as Xero) after the band’s original vocalist, Mark Wakefield, left. His powerful, emotive voice and ability to seamlessly transition between singing and screaming made him the perfect fit. Linkin Park’s debut album, Hybrid Theory (2000), became a global phenomenon, with many fans both celebrating the music in general and singling out Bennington's distinctive voice and range.

Chester’s raw, confessional lyrics and vocal delivery became a hallmark of Linkin Park’s sound. Chester’s ability to connect with fans through his vulnerability and authenticity cemented Linkin Park as one of the most influential bands of the 2000s. Outside of Linkin Park, Chester pursued various side projects and collaborations. In 2005, he formed Dead by Sunrise, a band that allowed him to explore a different side of alternative rock, along with being a singular front man. Their debut album, Out of Ashes, was released in 2009. He also collaborated with other artists, including Chris Cornell of Soundgarden and Audioslave, with whom he formed a close friendship.

In 2013, Chester joined Stone Temple Pilots as their lead vocalist, fulfilling a lifelong dream of singing for one of his favorite bands. He recorded the EP High Rise with STP before amicably parting ways to focus on Linkin Park. Chester’s versatility as a vocalist was further showcased through features on tracks by artists Steve Aoki's "Darker Than Blood") and Jonathan Davis' "System."

Throughout his life, Chester was open about his battles with depression, substance abuse, and the lingering effects of childhood trauma. His lyrics often reflected his inner turmoil, offering a voice to fans who shared similar struggles. Despite his success, Chester faced ongoing challenges with mental health.

On July 20, 2017, Chester Bennington tragically died by suicide at the age of 41. His death sent shockwaves through the music world and beyond, as fans and fellow artists mourned the loss of a beloved figure. His passing occurred on what would have been the 53rd birthday of his close friend, Chris Cornell, who had also died by suicide two months earlier.

Chester Bennington’s legacy is one of profound impact and enduring influence. Through his music, he gave a voice to those struggling with mental health, addiction, and emotional pain. Linkin Park’s songs continue to resonate with new generations, offering comfort and catharsis to listeners worldwide.

In the wake of his death, the band established the One More Light Fund in his honor, supporting mental health initiatives and other charitable causes. Tributes poured in from fans and artists alike, celebrating Chester’s talent, kindness, and the indelible mark he left on the music industry.

Chester’s life and work serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health and the power of art to heal and connect. His voice, both literal and metaphorical, remains a beacon of hope and understanding for millions around the globe. As Mike Shinoda, his bandmate and close friend, once said:
"Chester was one of the kindest men I’ve ever met. He had a way of making people feel loved and supported, even in their darkest moments. His absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit lives on in the music and the lives he touched."

Rob Bourdon

Linkin Park address founding drummer Rob Bourdon's departure
Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Robert Bourdon, born on January 20, 1979, in Calabasas, California, was Linkin Park’s original drummer. Bourdon attended Agoura High School with Shinoda and Delson and was a key member of the band’s classic lineup. Bourdon provided the rhythmic backbone for many of the band’s biggest hits, spanning from the pre-LP band name days as Xero all the way through One More Light and Bennington's death in 2017.

With the return of Linkin Park in 2024, Mike Shinoda gave an explanation to Billboard concerning Bourdon's noticeable absence during the band's first live performance in seven years. “Rob had said to us at a point, I guess it was a few years ago now, that he wanted to put some distance between himself and the band,” Mike explains. “And we understood that – it was already apparent. He was starting to just show up less, be in less contact, and I know the fans noticed it too. The Hybrid Theory re-release and Papercuts release, he didn’t show up for anything. So for me, as a friend, that was sad, but at the same time, I want him to do whatever makes him happy, and obviously everybody wishes him the best.”

Much like guitarist Brad Delson, Bourdon often used his playing for what fit the wall of sound that made Linkin Park, rather than adding overly complex rhythms or fills that would have otherwise given iconic tracks throughout the band's discography a completely different feel. Make no mistake, Bourdon has chops as a drummer, and was able to shine in live performances, particularly with the drum solo that would get added to the live versions of "Bleed It Out" than can be heard on numerous live albums.

Mark Wakefield

Mark Wakefield is best known as the original vocalist of Xero, the band that would later become Linkin Park. Born in the late 1970s, Mark grew up in Southern California and developed a passion for music early on. He joined Xero in the late 1990s with Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, and Rob Bourdon. Mark’s role in the band was pivotal during its formative years, as he contributed both vocals and lyrics to some of Xero’s earliest demos.

Wakefield's lyrical style often explored themes of frustration, isolation, and personal struggle, which would later become hallmarks of Linkin Park’s music. Despite his contributions, Mark left Xero in 1998 due to creative differences and the band’s struggles to secure a record deal. His departure opened the door for Chester Bennington, who joined the band and helped transform it into the global phenomenon known as Linkin Park.

After leaving Xero, Mark Wakefield shifted his focus to the business side of the music industry. He became a music manager and worked with bands like Taproot and The Snitches. He also maintained a close friendship with Mike Shinoda and the other members of Linkin Park, occasionally collaborating with them behind the scenes. While Mark never pursued a high-profile music career after Xero, his early contributions to the band’s sound and vision played a crucial role in shaping its identity.pect to his talents, without his departure there would have been no Linkin Park as we have known them today.

Kyle Christner

Kyle Christner was a temporary bassist for Linkin Park during their early days, filling in while Dave Farrell was touring with Tasty Snax. Though his time with the band was brief, Christner helped maintain their momentum during a transitional period. His bass work can be heard on some of the band’s earliest recordings, which laid the foundation for what would later become Linkin Park’s debut album, Hybrid Theory.

Kyle’s time with the band was short-lived, as Dave Farrell eventually returned to reclaim his role as bassist. After leaving Xero, Kyle largely stepped away from the spotlight and pursued a quieter life outside of the music industry. However, his brief involvement with the band would later resurface in a legal dispute.

In 2019, Kyle Christner filed a lawsuit against Linkin Park, alleging that he was owed unpaid royalties for his contributions to the band’s early demos. The lawsuit sought compensation for his alleged uncredited work and unpaid royalties. The case was settled out of court in 2020, with the terms remaining confidential.

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