Linkin Park Guitarist Brad Delson Reveals Why He No Longer Performs with the Band's New Lineup

Mar. 15, 2025

Brad Delson and Dave Farrell of Linkin Park in May 2017.Photo:Rich Fury/Getty

Rich Fury/Getty

Brad Delson is opening up about why he’s no longer performing withLinkin Park.

In an interview withGuitar Worldon Tuesday, Jan. 14, the longtime guitarist, 47, opened up about why he won’t be playing live on the band’s upcoming 2025 tour.

“For me, and, I guess, all the guys, the last however many years gave us the opportunity to really think qualitatively about the band — what energizes us, where we feel most fulfilled, and where we thrive,” Delson told the publication.

Linkin Park in September 2024.Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty

Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty

“He continued: “It wasn’t like, ‘Let’s go back to what we were doing.’ It was, ‘Let’s take what we’ve learned to approach our roles with greater self-awareness and insight.’ I really thrive in the studio. I love making new things. That’s why I decided to focus my energy on that area.”

Delson then explained why Alex Feder was chosen as his replacement.

“It’s just a great friendship. He’s an amazing musician and a strong live player. I think he brings a lot to the show — and I’m really proud of the show," he said.

Added Delson: “Even though I’m not onstage, I put a lot of my creative love into it. I’ve always been obsessed with the setlist, the concept of the show, and how it flows. I worked really hard on it; that’s no different than the past.”

“There’s something about her voice and her energy that just feels like Linkin Park energy. The nice thing about our two vocalists [including Mike Shinoda] is that they’re each really dynamic,” Delson explained.

He continued: “Part of the band’s identity is exploring the space between genres and juxtaposition. If you don’t have vocalists who can cover every genre, the band’s raison d’être would be stymied."

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Emily Armstrong and Dave Farrell of Linkin Park in September 2024.Joern Pollex/Redferns

Joern Pollex/Redferns

In September, Linkin Parkannounced its returnand the additions of Armstrong, 38, and drummer Colin Brittain.

Shinoda, 47, said Linkin Park felt “really empowered with this new lineup,” adding, “We’re weaving together the sonic touchpoints we’ve been known for and still exploring new ones.”

source: people.com