Mike Shinoda Uncertain if Linkin Park Will Record New Versions of Chester's Songs

Mike Shinoda has expressed uncertainty about whether Linkin Park will create new recordings of older tracks featuring the late Chester Bennington.

This follows the band's comeback announcement during a livestream on 5^th September, where they introduced Emily Armstrong, formerly of Dead Sara, as their new vocalist.

Image Courtesy: WPLG Local 10

The news came after weeks of fan speculation, sparked by a cryptic countdown. The band’s return included a debut performance of a new track, ‘The Emptiness Machine,’ alongside Linkin Park classics. They also revealed their upcoming album, ‘From Zero,’ and shared details about an upcoming world tour.

Armstrong steps in for Chester Bennington, who passed away in 2017. Fans have since wondered if her involvement will lead to re-recordings of older material, with one asking online if new versions of the songs will be made. Shinoda responded, saying he’s "not sure."

Initially, fans and fellow artists responded positively to Armstrong's arrival, but controversy quickly followed when it was revealed that the singer had ties to Scientology and convicted r**ist Danny Masterson. The issue came to light after a message from Cedric Bixler-Zavala, frontman of The Mars Volta and former At The Drive-In, directed at Armstrong, resurfaced over the weekend.

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In response, Armstrong issued a statement on her Instagram Stories. “I wanted to clear the air about something that happened a while back. Several years ago, I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance, and went to one early hearing as an observer. Soon after, I realised I shouldn’t have,” she wrote.

“I always try to see the good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since. Unimaginable details emerged and he was later found guilty. To say it as clearly as possible: I do not condone abuse or violence against women, and I empathise with the victims of these crimes.”

--Silviya.Y