8 Times a Band’s New Lead Singer Was a Total Disaster

In the world of classic rock, a band’s lead singer often becomes its defining voice and face. Replacing such a central figure is a daunting task, and history has shown that not all attempts succeed. Here are eight instances where introducing a new lead singer led to unexpected challenges and, in some cases, outright failures.

1. INXS and J.D. Fortune

After the tragic death of Michael Hutchence in 1997, INXS faced the immense challenge of finding a new frontman. In 2005, they turned to reality television with the show “Rock Star: INXS” to audition potential vocalists. J.D. Fortune emerged as the winner and became the band’s new lead singer. Initially, this partnership generated media buzz and led to the release of the album “Switch.” However, the collaboration was short-lived. By 2009, Fortune was dismissed from the band, and INXS struggled to regain their previous acclaim. The attempt to replace Hutchence through a televised competition was seen by many as a misstep, and the band’s legacy was overshadowed by this controversial decision.

2. Van Halen and Gary Cherone

Van Halen experienced significant success with both David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar as lead vocalists. However, after Hagar’s departure, the band introduced Gary Cherone, formerly of Extreme, as their new singer. This lineup produced the 1998 album “Van Halen III,” which marked a departure from the band’s signature sound, aiming for a more experimental approach. Unfortunately, both fans and critics found the change unappealing. The album received lukewarm reviews and failed to produce lasting hits. Cherone’s tenure with the band was brief, and this period is often viewed as a low point in Van Halen’s otherwise illustrious career.

3. The Doors and the Butts Band

Following the death of Jim Morrison in 1971, the remaining members of The Doors faced the daunting task of moving forward without their iconic frontman. After releasing two albums with Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger sharing vocal duties, they sought a new lead singer. Their search led them to London, where they auditioned several British vocalists, including Jess Roden. This collaboration resulted in the formation of the Butts Band, a project that deviated from The Doors’ original sound. Despite releasing two albums, the Butts Band failed to capture significant attention, and the endeavor is often regarded as an unsuccessful attempt to continue The Doors’ legacy without Morrison.

4. Linkin Park and Emily Armstrong

After the untimely death of Chester Bennington in 2017, Linkin Park faced the challenge of continuing without their charismatic lead singer. In 2024, they announced Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist. This decision sparked controversy, particularly due to Armstrong’s association with the Church of Scientology and her previous support for convicted rapist Danny Masterson. Chester’s son, Jaime Bennington, publicly criticized the band’s choice, suggesting it disrespected his father’s legacy. The backlash from fans and Bennington’s family highlighted the difficulties bands face when replacing a beloved frontman, especially under sensitive circumstances.

5. Foreigner and Kelly Hansen

Foreigner, known for hits like “I Want to Know What Love Is,” experienced significant success with original lead vocalist Lou Gramm. After Gramm’s departure, the band enlisted Kelly Hansen as the new frontman. While Hansen brought vocal prowess to the group, the change led to mixed reactions. During their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, tensions surfaced when the band was denied the opportunity to perform, leading to dissatisfaction among former members. Gramm expressed frustration over the situation, feeling that the band’s legacy was mishandled. This episode underscores the complexities and potential pitfalls bands encounter when introducing a new lead singer, even when the replacement is talented.

6. Echo & the Bunnymen and Noel Burke

In 1989, Ian McCulloch, the distinctive voice of Echo & the Bunnymen, left the band, prompting the remaining members to find a new lead singer. They selected Noel Burke to fill the role. This lineup released the album “Reverberation” in 1990. However, the departure from their established sound and the absence of McCulloch’s unique vocals led to a lukewarm reception from both fans and critics. The album failed to make a significant impact, and the band’s popularity waned during this period. This experience highlights the challenges bands face when replacing a frontman whose voice and presence are integral to their identity.

7. Spandau Ballet and Ross William Wild

Spandau Ballet, famed for their 1980s hits, originally featured Tony Hadley as their lead vocalist. After Hadley’s departure, the band introduced Ross William Wild as the new frontman in 2018. Despite efforts to rejuvenate their sound and image, the change did not resonate with long-time fans. The band’s performances with Wild received mixed reviews, and internal tensions escalated. By 2019, Wild announced his departure, citing dissatisfaction and a lack of support. This brief and tumultuous period underscores the difficulties established bands face when attempting to replace a charismatic and well-loved lead singer.

8. The Misfits and Michale Graves

The Misfits, pioneers of horror punk, originally featured Glenn Danzig as their frontman. After Danzig’s departure in 1983, the band disbanded but later reformed in the mid-1990s with Michale Graves as the new lead singer.