That’s why Linkin Park guitarist Brad Delson no longer performs live

For Brad Delson, touring with Linkin Park is over – he’d rather just be in the studio.

Linkin Park guitarist Brad Delson, who played on albums such as HYBRID THEORY (2000), METEORA (2003) and MINUTES TO MIDNIGHT (2007) as well as later works such as A THOUSAND SUNS (2010) and ONE MORE LIGHT (2017), has in one Interview explained his decision to no longer perform live with the band. After Linkin Park announced their comeback with new singer Emily Armstrong and the album FROM ZERO last September, Delson confirmed that he would be stepping away from touring with the band.

Linkin Park: New live guitarist replaces Brad Delson

In an interview with “Guitar World”, the long-time band member explained that his focus is now on the creative process in the studio. “I’ve found that I really thrive in the studio. It’s the place where I can best channel my energy,” said Delson. The years away from the stage helped him to think about and redefine his role in the band. Alex Feder takes his place as live guitarist. Delson praised him as a “great musician and strong live player” and also emphasized what his friendship with Feder meant to him. He also adds, “Even though I’m not on stage, a lot of my creative love goes into the show. I’ve always been obsessed with the setlist and the concept of the show – that hasn’t changed.”

Changes in the band

Delson also talked about new addition Emily Armstrong and the new dynamic at Linkin Park. “Their voice and energy just feels like Linkin Park’s energy,” he said. The combination of Armstrong and Mike Shinoda allows the band to continue to explore the space between genres – a hallmark of Linkin Park. The band’s reunion was largely received positively by fans, although controversy surrounding Armstrong’s ties to Scientology and convicted rapist Danny Masterson sparked debate. Armstrong clarified in a statement that she “no longer has any association with Masterson.” Drummer Rob Bourdon has left the band completely to pursue other things. He was replaced by Colin Brittain. Shinoda spoke about these changes in a separate interview and emphasized that this was also good for the band’s cohesion.

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