Linkin Park, an American rock band originating from Agoura Hills, California, formed in 1996, has become one of the most iconic names in modern rock. The current lineup includes Mike Shinoda (vocals, rhythm guitar, and keyboard), Brad Delson (lead guitar), Joe Hahn (DJ/turntables), Dave Farrell (bass), along with newcomers Emily Armstrong (co-lead vocals) and Colin Brittain (drums). The band’s journey was marked by the tragic loss of former lead vocalist Chester Bennington in 2017, after which they took an indefinite break. However, in September 2024, Linkin Park announced their much-anticipated reunion, welcoming Armstrong and Brittain to the lineup.
Originally known for blending heavy metal and hip hop, Linkin Park’s sound has evolved over the years, incorporating electronic and pop influences. They shot to international fame with their debut album *Hybrid Theory* in 2000, which was certified Diamond by the RIAA. The singles "One Step Closer," "Crawling," and "In the End" dominated the rock charts, with "In the End" breaking into the No. 2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. Their follow-up album *Meteora* (2003) further solidified their position as a global rock sensation.
As they continued to innovate, the band explored new musical directions with albums like *Minutes to Midnight* (2007), *A Thousand Suns* (2010), which delved into electronic sounds, and *Living Things* (2012), which combined elements from their earlier work. In 2014, *The Hunting Party* saw a return to their heavier rock roots, while *One More Light* (2017) ventured into pop territory. Fans eagerly await their eighth studio album, *From Zero*, set for release in November 2024.
With over 100 million records sold worldwide, Linkin Park ranks among the best-selling artists of the 21st century. The band has garnered numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards, six American Music Awards, four MTV Video Music Awards, and 10 MTV Europe Music Awards. MTV2 named them the sixth-greatest band of the music video era, and VH1 crowned them the greatest artist of the 2000s. Billboard also recognized them as one of the top rock bands of the decade, while Kerrang! dubbed them "the Biggest Rock Band in the World" in 2014.