Is Emily Armstrong The One To Start Linkin Park's New Chapter? ANALYSIS of "The Emptiness Machine"

[@Alveyjr21]

What I loved about this was how they introduced her. This was the first song. We had no idea what this even was. They didn't announce it was a concert. They didn't announce anything. They didn't even announce her in the band yet. We knew nothing. Then we hear a song and Mike comes up and says hello and starts singing this new song. My thought was, ok, this is the route they are going. Mike is taking over vocals going forward... and then BOOM here comes Emily, outta nowhere! It was kinda cool the way they did it. Like, "hey, we are here. This is what you are familiar with. Now check out this new thing!"

[@afishcalledminnewawa]

yeah I thought it was brilliant.

[@tubafishy]

Was there too and had the EXACT same thought process!!

[@Jccl937]

You can feel the audience vibe of ‘wait, what???’ at that moment

[@caiorabelo1]

You couldn't describe better. I can still remember my feeling on this whole concert. Every song i was more excited waiting for the next one.

[@travz21]

It was one of the coolest things in music history I think. One of the biggest bands makes a mysteriously vague countdown. Then has a live stream. Then starts performing a new song for the first time in 7 years at a concert. Then announces a new lead singer partway through the song. And continues to play a large number of classics. This thing was shrouded in secrecy and ended up being a monumental drop of news.

[@joyjoyz778]

I was at this event, front row. Her hands were shaking she was super nervous (Mike even had to like give her a pep talk at one point between songs and the other members too kept checking on her) so i understand why it affected her performance but overall in recent shows she's been more comfortable and truly shown her talents. I really like her style and think it works well with the band. IMO no one should ever be compared to Chester. Not even the copy cats out there can sound as good as him. I'm glad they went with her who has very different vocals.

[@nissimpanchpor7268]

@joyjoz778 How did you know about the event? Did they inform LPU members?

[@ZeektheGeek5996]

@@nissimpanchpor7268basically a bunch of fans confirmed they would be able to go and they randomly chose some fans to come attend it

[@ZeektheGeek5996]

i mean yah what she did was as nerve raking as going to school then realizing your only wearing underwear

[@noneyabisness414]

​@@nissimpanchpor7268yes they informed the LPU, but not exactly what was happening. They told them to come "be part of something". Of course we had no idea yet that was a lyric

[@ahmadjamalmughal47]

How does one deliver such astonishing performance despite of being nervous. I didn't notice she might be nervous until now. I'm genuinely impressed by her and I was extremely skeptical about it at first, I didn't even listen it at first.

[@Paul-r7z]

You mentioned Mike's smile, one of the greatest things about LP's reunion is if you watch any live clips the genuine joy and happiness on Mike's face is so clear to see. The man is just so happy to be able to perform again on stage and we're all here for this new journey ❤

[@martinpalmer6203]

100% agree, Mike on Twitch when he wasn't performing versus this where he gets to do it again is a huge contrast. SO Happy they are back and the music is hitting. People who say they should change their name or quit after Chester have NO CLUE what it like to have someone close kill themselves... this fight back behind the scenes would have been a monumental struggle, eventually finding Emily and realizing "this works" then spending a year keeping it under wraps... then THIS COMEBACK.... Its WELL DESERVED and as a fan it feels like the Oxygen is back in the room again after suffocating for YEARS along with the band.

[@rgac24]

@@martinpalmer6203 All Mike had to do was create another band. By using existing members of LP and new. So the new can have there own legacy. Which also be most honorable and respectful thing to do for Chester and his family.

[@joshuaboncio4268]

@@rgac24but he is linkin park, he created the group, why change name? It’ unfair for the rest of the group, why you don’t understand what that name means for him? They respected Chester. They were silent for 8 hears, i think that this also to much, be happy they are here again insted complain for a name

[@jp7056]

Saw them play last night in Dallas. Him, Brad, Dave, and Joe all 4 were just smiling the entire 3 hours. Such a genuine energy they were putting out.

[@aurora51220]

I can confirm for sure Mike keep that smile all along the concert. i saw them in Paris and same thing... that smile was something it was saw all along. he seems so happy.

[@jenneldoodeldoo7803]

When Mike smiled and said "Good to see you again." I started to cry...😅 Been a fan since Hybrid Theory came out and it's just beautiful to see themback and happy.

[@reddragonlegacy]

@jenneldoodeldoo7803 I refuse to support them. And it's 1,000,000% because of Emily Armstrong. Emily Armstrong was one of the women attacking the women at the courthouse in the Danny Masterson case. She is a Scientologist Psycho. To have her leading the band, when Chester was unalived for daring to speak out against s3x cults like NEXIUM, is an insult to the memory and legacy of Chester Bennington Linkin Park ended the day Chester was murdered.

[@PenneySounds]

Mike spent the whole show with a look on his face that just said "I'm home"

[@reddragonlegacy]

@@jenneldoodeldoo7803 Linkin Park died the day Chester was murdered. To put a Pro-Sex Cult, Pro-Rapist on stage as your "leader" really says a lot. How many of the guys went to Diddy's Parties, eh? How many were involved in NEXIVM and had Chester murdered *DAYS* before he was set to testify against NEXIVM.

[@lucasbenedine3477]

Same here, that phrase made me feel like a weight has been lifted out of me hahah and I'm a fan since Minutes to Midnight/A Thousand Suns. I was too young to get the Hybrid Theory/Meteora hype, although a lot of songs from those albums (One Step Closer, In The End, Numb, From The Inside, A Place For My Head etc 16:39 ) were part of my childhood. Their first CD I bought on release was A Thousand Suns.

[@ZeektheGeek5996]

i know, i’m sure he just came up with that in the moment and didn’t think to deeply about it but now that one of the most iconic quotes in linkin park history

[@barryharris4967]

She is even better now with a series of shows under her belt. She was understandably very nervous in this performance

[@edwinduisburg8138]

She fits well to cover band. She is nowhere near the Linkin Park level.

[@MrMcbear]

@@edwinduisburg8138 Based on what....

[@Branfaol1]

​@@edwinduisburg8138Respect your opinion but you are in the minority.

[@CGGS_0]

Arrogent mindset. “nowhere near the level of” is just short sited and opinion-based statement that is irrelevent. @@edwinduisburg8138

[@ChopBassMan]

I've listened to a couple of newer concert videos and I agree that she has really settled in with the band. Emily appeared nervous to me in this performance* but she was still amazing! ❤ * - I've been a professional bass player for several decades, if I landed a gig with a band of Linkin Park's status - along with their history AND considering Chester's tragic end - I'd definitely be a bundle of of nerves the 1st time out (I think Emily pulled it off better than I would have).

[@operative2136]

Good Lord, she absolutely nails that performance. She has a perfect voice for rock/metal. Her voice has power, grit and character and I absolutely love it. Well done Linkin Park, you found yourself one hell of a singer.

[@lakimko]

If you like Mike's singing here, you should definitely listen to Castle of Glass *Update: And also to some of his solo work, like the Post Traumatic album, or the song Already Over!

[@hattiecattie]

Mike really doesn't get enough credit for his voice. He's a good singer

[@CGGS_0]

@@hattiecattieThat’s because most people see Chester (and now Emily) as the face of the band. Most people don’t actually know that Mike is the actual face of the band.

[@hattiecattie]

@CGGS_0 I get it's a team effort, but it's always been Mike's band.

[@CGGS_0]

@@hattiecattie That’s what I said…

[@Blockistium]

also, NO ROADS LEFT, his best singing in any song ever, IMO

[@Dirk-wk8yx]

no one can replace Chester. And I love that they don't even try. The female voice ist different enough while keeping the rest of the "typical" sound of the band. Just the right thing to do.

[@DesertRainReads]

The chemistry between Mike and Emily is undeniable. There's good reason why he brought the Linkin Park moniker back to life. Emily is the perfect choice for the comeback, it's also easy to understand why she was chosen. After the controversy was finally put to bed, it's safe to say she's here to stay. Bless her and bless the band. Linkin Park 2.0 has a bright future ahead with her at the helm and I'm here for all of it.

[@Lurch685]

I can’t wait for this album. So stoked.

[@toft5320]

what controversy?? what did i miss

[@Marshiemewo]

@@toft5320 people tried to claim emily was a rape-apologist and active scientologist entirely on bad faith. its basically entirely hokey

[@wild_lee_coyote]

Ever since it was pointed out to me that the Emptiness Machine could be social media, I can’t unthink about it. It just fits so well.

[@dwbelew]

This.

[@caiorabelo1]

Totally agreed!

[@jorgemonteiro8754]

Perfectly said. Totally agree and now I cannot listen to this song without thing about social media today

[@ohthenoises]

There's a lot of buried points in these lyrics are pointing out stuff like that. The big ones for me is "going around like a revolver, it's been decided how we lose", to me, points DIRECTLY at those "fans" who will just never be happy that LP is back. The band knows they're gonna piss those people off and realizes that, for those people, it's already been decided how LP loses.

[@AncientHydraGaming]

@@ohthenoises And not just "fans" that aren't happy that they are back but those "fans" that have been angry with EVERY ALBUM AFTER HYBRID THEORY because Linkin Park has always been a band of new types of sound.

[@malakengago-pc]

I love that intro with Mike being so happy to see the crowd. I was very fortunate to attend that performance, and you could just see how happy all the band was to be playing for people again.

[@xenoxaos1]

It's like he's alive and reborn again!

[@playlistb3795]

Not gonna lie, while Heavy is the Crown is more my style of LP compared to Emptiness Machine, watching the live debut of this new era LP had me wondering what we were going to get. As soon as Emily hit that chorus, tears started flowing. It was a perfect introduction and brought back so many feelings

[@themplar]

good i am not the only one. And i was never really a fan of the band. But this song gets me every time. And the "lore" behind it.

[@RedTieGuy]

Same. I was bawling the entire show

[@MrTolarindr]

Right there with you. LP was formative for me and many who grew up late 90s, early 00s. Chester has been the only celebrity death that really impacted me. When Emily hit the chorus, it felt like a dam broke and I was crying. I don't even fully understand why, if I'm honest.

[@desmoheli]

I didnt even make it after "Good to see you again" until all rivers broke :D

[@doccomoli]

I was at my job on a night shift and I was a horrible crying mess the whole time. I loved it. I enjoyed what I heard. And while I missed Chester, I also welcomed old friends home, along with some new friends. None of you who got emotional were alone. I assure you.

[@bobfather7355]

This was Emily's live debut with the band, and the first song. This is her introduction to the world.

[@scottNNJ]

Having Mike Shinoda start with pseudo-lead vocals before tossing it to her was an absolutely brilliant way to do it.

[@reddragonlegacy]

@bobfather7355 actually her introduction to the World was during the Danny Masterson case. Emily Armstrong was one of the women attacking the women at the courthouse in the Danny Masterson case. She is a Scientologist Psycho. To have her leading the band, when Chester was unalived for daring to speak out against s3x cults like NEXIUM, is an insult to the memory and legacy of Chester Bennington Linkin Park ended the day Chester was murdered. If you wanna support people who stand up for r@pists, that's on you. Even her former bandmate called her out on that.

[@a.nonimus6705]

This is absolutely not her introduction to the world. She's played many many shows with Dead Sara (her own band). I've seen them live twice, personally. The first time I saw Dead Sara live was eight years ago... so it is entirely incorrect to say this is her introduction to the world. Introduction to you, perhaps, but not the world

[@bobfather7355]

@@a.nonimus6705 I meant as a member of Linkin Park

[@ethany.2981]

@@reddragonlegacy Murdered?? Go away everyone thinks you're weird

[@TCxfan]

In my mind, Mike is as responsible for Linkin Park's sound as Chester was, so it was nice to see you give him some attention here and not only react to Emily's part

[@CyberNut930]

Yeah, I’ve always said that within his range Mike can really sing.

[@davidreilly4682]

Listen to the song it's good. Emily is awesome, stop talking

[@KenithCopeland]

whats a fun fact is that linkin park is mikes band, chester came after and was the singer, was he a HUGE part of the band, of course he was, just long every other long standing member of a band, but like car parts, things can be swapped in/out to make a working product. its not the same as chester because its not chester, people comparing things to chester need to catch up to the fact that chester isnt here anymore and that doesnt mean the actual band needs to die off. new times is new times

[@person59523]

@@KenithCopeland Also to add Mike wrote most of the songs I'm pretty sure.

[@chuckw7274]

Mike was on able to get Linkin Park famous because of Chester . If Chester had never joined LP, it would be nothing. They have been better off making new band with Emily. If Mike really wanted to bring back LP and keep being successful. He should pick a singer that Chester liked and admired or has the same passion and values and who covers older songs well. That would have been the most respectful thing the band could have for Chester and his family. Emily is the wrong choice. If they created a new band with Emily. Then she then could make a name for herself. It's very hard for the band to stay successful when a legendary singer has died.

[@CoryDAnimates]

Mike now has a dad's warmth in his singing voice. LP growing up 🥹

[@dutchessofmilpitas]

And the Dad sweater! I agree with Elizabeth that I want to hug Mike. He looks so approachable in that sweater.

[@rgac24]

@@CoryDAnimates yet he insults and blocks Chester's son and family. Mike didn't even say anything nice to Chester son when he was at the concert.

[@griechland]

@@rgac24 Yeah, sorry to break it to you but Chester's son is kind of unhinged.

[@anoobis_]

​@@rgac24 Chester's son has a massive ego. No one needs to say nice things to him.

[@ADHDriver]

I just saw them here in Arlington Texas, and oh my god, what an incredible show first of all!! Emily’s voice was incredible, and her stage presence was amazing as well. Super glad I saw them, only been one of my favorite bands since I was in middle school!!

[@lloyddomke9563]

I think the general public underestimates the critical importance of having band members you can be around for 300 days a year and not want to stab them in the face. If Emily can bring that to the team it's really one of the more rare talents.

[@ironpaper55]

This song makes me cry every single time. The last few months have been so difficult for me for a multitude of reasons and this live show they streamed on youtube announcing their comeback and Emily made me feel alive again. A few years ago I was in the starting position for my dream career and felt like I was making a difference in my life and the people around me, unfortunately the owner of the business and my superior was only worried about the percentage on the end of day sales. They actively made every single day hell by preventing me from working with the customers and assigning me the tasks that prevented me from making the difference in my community I could and kept me from doing what I was the best at in that job. They also gave me tasks that weren’t possible to complete and then got heated when they weren’t done. All that being said it killed my dream job and career I wanted for almost 10 years by that point. I’m still left in my new much less stressful job unsure of what I want in my life now from that experience. So when you asked at 18:30 what we get out of it is that I only wanted to be part of that career and feel fulfilled and be the BEST ME for the people walking into the shop. I only wanted to be part of something I cared deeply for, and I felt and still feel so fucking naive that anyone else cared like I do in that field. Love what you do here Elizabeth, you can put what I feel and love about music and this new Linkin Park into words I can’t. And also you teach us what it is they do that pulls us by the heart so deeply.

[@najrenchelf2751]

I'm just realizing that the title "Heavy is the Crown" could be alluding to how Emily first felt when stepping up to take her place in LP...

[@naed_coral]

Correct - you can definitely hear that she is doing it while thinking of Chester and trying to make him proud

[@trix10101]

that song may have been written before she was in the band. the emptiness machine was, which was confirmed by Mike on the linkin Park discord.

[@matthiasnoack5672]

you always have to remember with that song - it was written as a song for the World Championship in League of Legends. While the title also somewhat fits Emily and her joining the group, it mostly is about the championship and the struggles people have there, defending titles, attacking, catching up.

[@rasmusjonsson1348]

Yea and "The Emptiness Machine" could be thoughts that have gone through Mikes head (and the other band members as well) after we lost Chester, basically what will happen to the band, what will fans think of a new singer and all other questions that he had no answer too before now.

[@HunterRichardson]

"I just wanted to be part of something" felt like that too

[@jessicaw2543]

Thanks for spending time on Mike's voice too! I've always thought his singing was so special but really underrated. I remember first noticing it on their song No Roads Left and I really think not enough people talk about how beautiful his singing voice is

[@KrzPBkn]

After Chester's death, Mike went on a little solo career journey and he has some really nice sounding songs. I definitely recommend checking out some of his stuff! His album "Post Traumatic" was really powerful. Also, he had a different project called "Fort Minor" where he has some cool things as well. But PT showed me Mike in a different light and it shows that he is JUST as important to Linkin Park as Chester was. There is no LP without Mike.

[@ameow6602]

There would be no LP without Chester. They never would have went anywhere the way they were without him

[@themplar]

I love the moment Mike is pointing at emily just before she starts the screams. Really like "THIS will blow you away and why she is in the band." and he is right WOW.

[@reddragonlegacy]

@themplar the fact she's in the band after supporting Danny Masterson, and even attacking and threatening his victims is a slap in the face of Chester's legacy. Especially after he was unalived for speaking out against the NEXIVM Cult. Linkin Park died the day Chester Bennington was murdered. Linkin Park is dead. This is just some really bad knock-off.

[@whatsleft5059]

​@@reddragonlegacyChester committed suicide. Don't disrespect his memory by spreading conspiracy theories. That's just low.

[@reddragonlegacy]

@whatsleft5059 did he? Or was he offed because he *was* speaking out about NEXIVM? Just because the Media tells you it was suicide doesn't mean it was. Epstein didn't commit suicide, but they want you to think he did. Chester was going to expose the industry, much like Jamie Foxx started when he outed Diddy. Maybe look a little deeper into things instead of believing everything the media tells you. I mean, they told you for years Biden was "competent" and was "sharp as a tack". Doesn't stop the fact that Emily attacked VICTIMS. You wanna support someone who attacks Victims of Sexual Assault because her Scientologist Cult told her to? Thanks for proving you're a horrible person.

[@torunsmok5890]

​@@reddragonlegacy if you were paying attention you'd know she went to one preliminary hearing to support someone she thought was a friend who clearly manipulated her much like his other victims just to a different goal, and at said hearing realized enough of the truth to never do anything in support of him again, and even recently put out a statement clarifying that and expressing absolute support for the victims. She was BORN INTO a notorious cult, we should be celebrating her escape (she's openly lesbian which they wouldn't allow so clearly she left but outright stating she did would be dangerous for her) instead of attacking her for attending one hearing she was manipulated into going to. She is a victim of different kinds of abuse. Quit blaming victims.

[@SarahsVeganSpace]

​@@torunsmok5890 exactly. Everyone of us would at first believe our friend. People accusing her of supporting a rapist are ignoring the fact that they would the same thing if they were in her shoes.

[@danipummer]

When Mike points at Emily he even goes out of tune with happiness at being back on stage and I don't understand why people don't accept their happiness (the band as a whole). I loved it 🖤

[@herr_schmuenker]

i agree 100%

[@anakyangbudiman8497]

He was like 👈😆

[@whatiwasgoingtosay]

I love Emily with LP, but I’m also so happy to see Mike get some love for his voice. He’s got such a lovely tone and a vulnerability to the way he sings. And his voice has gotten stronger and stronger over the years. His solo music is so important to me.

[@Rinnn3]

I grew up with Linkin Park, they were my favorite band for my entire childhood. When we lost Chester, I was devestated as was everyone. This introduction of Emily has reignited my love for this band in the best way possible, and her reflection of Chesters greatness mixed with her own style truly meshes so well! I can not actually listen to the bands new music without crying. Amazing.

[@jesusfilosofo6385]

I beg you to listen to no roads left, thats one of the best songs to introduce you to mike shinodas voice. Minutes to midnight entirely needs to be analysed.

[@itsbeckon2017]

The Linkin Park comeback did hit me like a hurricane. I've been dealing with depression and bad thoughts and when Chester died, I almost lost that fight shortly after. And now this new music from LP feels like myself: grown, more positive, but this angry and depressed fog in me still exists, I just learned to live with that foggy devil in me.

[@MattH-cq3cs]

…all the best for u, stay strong

[@itsbeckon2017]

@@MattH-cq3cs lots of love for your comment❤️

[@mylife1221]

while it's difficult to find a good high-quality version of it, her version of "waiting for the end" live in london was breathtaking. you can tell that song means a lot to her, she ends up breaking down on stage and STILL nails the high note, backed by a ton of emotion and power.

[@NahIamgood]

There is an interesting concept in buddhism called sunyata (void, emptiness) which I think ties really nicely with the lyrics and the video. They came back because of a visceral need for music and to be *part of something* but by coming back, they have fueled the endless machine of everyone's expectations. In short and very very simplified, sunyata is about how everything in the world doesn't have an intrinsic meaning or value by itself but only in context with everything else. Everything has a prior cause for coming into existence and all things are made of other small parts that we cannot see or perceive just like how the members of the band are made of tiny "particles" in the music video. It's said that observing this phenomenon of emptiness will allow you to drop the illusion and observe the "ultimate" reality, discover the source of everything and the meaning of life. I'm so digging this song, love Emily, her energy, how happy our boys seem and I'm so excited for the album! Chester will never die in our hearts, his legacy is honored

[@Robert_Douglass]

Interesting concept! Kinda like there's an energy, within and between everything and in every little part of everything, that binds it all together. How long have you practiced Buddhism?

[@MichaelFrench-s8r]

I heard this song for the first time while driving into work. I started crying because it was so moving to hear Linkin Park again!!! What an awesome new sound!

[@Seatownstriker]

I really love how you are able to pick out things that didn't hear the first few times I heard it. Makes me appreciate it more. And I too am excited for this next chapter.

[@JensaRahm]

I am hyped and all for this. You can see how happy Mike is again. And Chester would approve of them moving on. He Will always be missed.

[@Oodles24]

I love this live version. 👏 So incredible that Mike and Emily could give us such amazing vocals. I get emotional just watching, can’t imagine how it felt to perform in that moment.

[@reddragonlegacy]

I can't imagine how the women at the courthouse during the Danny Masterson Trial felt. Emily Armstrong was one of the women attacking the women at the courthouse in the Danny Masterson trial. She was threatening the people who spoke out against Danny, too. She is a Scientologist Psycho. To have her leading the band, when Chester was unalived for daring to speak out against s3x cults like NEXIUM, is an insult to the memory and legacy of Chester Bennington Linkin Park ended the day Chester was murdered. If you wanna support people who stand up for r@pists, that's on you. Even her former bandmate called her out on that.

[@whatsleft5059]

Emily really is the perfect fit for the band. I love the way they all sound together. Can't wait to see what the future holds for them.

[@KamoMustafaWWEII]

It didn't take time for Emily to grow on me. She immediately won me over with this performance and she continues to blow my mind. I love her voice so much.

[@GODZILLARULES123]

Same. I thought she was really good. I don't get the hate she gets.

[@Momentusx3]

​@@GODZILLARULES123 People are hating on her because they think she's a scientologist, even though she's openly gay and openly talks about mental health, both things that are completely against anything the cult of scientology believes in. Between that and her showing up for a pre-trial for Danny Masterson as his (now former) friend before never speaking to him afterwards, they think she's basically Satan.

[@BloodyVagabond]

​@@GODZILLARULES123 It's not about her singing. It's about the Scientology and Danny Masterson stuff.

[@nikahaziny]

​@@BloodyVagabond oh please, those are just cover ups, the real reason some people hate her (vocal minority, but still) is because she's not Chester, it's so obvious when you see the comments, the same people who hate her wanted that Chester copy from Hybrid Theory band to become the vocalist. The Masterson thing has already been adressed, and when you actually do a bit of research you will find that nothing about her life says she's a scientologist.

[@LordRacing16]

You need to listen to OVER EACH OTHER! Their 3rd song, featuring only her on vocals, it's so good in terms of storytelling

[@danipummer]

Her voice in this song is so beautifull, makes me fell happy for knowing her better but sad for the lyrics and imagine lose someone who i love. Just LP song perfect!

[@reddragonlegacy]

@LordRacing16 i think you need to listen to her former bandmate who called her out for supporting Danny Masterson, and even threatening and attacking his victims. I refuse to support Linkin Park anymore.

[@LordRacing16]

@@reddragonlegacy well I have one more joy in life, you have one less joy in life, you tell me who's in favourable position?

[@whsitle]

@@reddragonlegacy not an airport and shes already addressed this nonsense

[@reddragonlegacy]

@whsitle and? How can you defend someone who attacks another human, for standing up for themselves. Aren't we supposed to "Believe all Victims"? Or is it we're only supposed to believe them when they go after Conservatives/Republicans? Danny Master raped women, and Emily being the UNSTABLE Scientologist she is (all Scientologists are Unstable but that's beside the point), defended him with force, because the Cult told her to. Glad to hear you support Rapists too.

[@PenneySounds]

Chester always said that Mike had a beautiful singing voice as long as he had been in the band, and he spent years helping Mike build the courage to show his singing voice. If you want more of Mike's singing, I recommend LP songs like "No Roads Left", "In Between", "Burning in the Skies", "Iridescent" (especially the album version, not the radio edit/video version), "The Catalyst" (same), "Castle of Glass" (other way around), "Roads Untraveled", "Skin to Bone", "Final Masquerade" (acoustic version), "Invisible", "Sorry for Now", the recently released Meteora demo "Massive", his Fort Minor tracks "Believe Me " and "Welcome", Cypress Hill's "Come Carry Away", and the Live in Texas performances of "Papercut" and "Pushing Me Away" which have some absolutely perfect harmony between Mike and Chester. And of course, His solo album Post Traumatic is full of great singing from him almost beginning to end, so it's hard to even pick suggestions. He starts the album right off with a song that blurs the lines between singing and rapping in a stream of consciousness, followed by two powerful tracks with rapped verses and a sung chorus, and an absolute heartbreaker of a track with him singing to a backing track with no percussion. Other standouts for singing are tracks 7, 10, 15, and 16. He has a music video for every song on the album, so best thing is to just watch it beginning to end like a movie. Also his standalone solo releases "Fine" and "Already Over".

[@azrael7718]

I saw an interview with Mike and Emily and she told a story of when they decided on her. She said that Mike told her to "learn how to sing" but i dont remember if it was pertaining to like, ACTUAL singing, or singing their songs, but that was time well spent, because she sounds AMAZING. I watched this show (not live) from beginning to end, and was BLOWN AWAY by her performance! They marketed this show as an "unknown event", not telling anyone that it was an actual concert, or the introduction of Emily to the LP family, so when it became an actual concert, it was a surprise for everyone. The stage had an awesome light show accompanying it, and at the very beginning, all the instruments had cloths over the top of them. Making a point to remove the coverings gave it a feel like "okay, we've been gone for a while, we're back now, and it's time to reopen the doors." My eyes still water when she starts singing, and when Mike was (re)introducing the band, he said: "The part of Chester Bennington is played by YOU." So happy Linkin Park is back!

[@jasonbodden8816]

I think you'd find Emily's vocals in Dead Sara's "Sorry for it All." Such a nuanced, emotional and beautiful vocal performance, I think you would truly enjoy analyzing it.

[@redridernl]

@@jasonbodden8816 Anybody (Stripped) would be my choice. I just like the song better but I wouldn't be upset either way.

[@Michal_Lipek]

I really like emotions in "For You I Am" by Dead Sara of course. It's brilliant.

[@soflaav8r]

@@redridernl There are so many Dead Sara songs that would be great for this channel. Honestly I think they are better showcases for her talent than LP.

[@redridernl]

@@soflaav8r I love the live performance of Mona Lisa on their channel. I only discovered it recently and it elevates the song for me.

[@reddragonlegacy]

@@jasonbodden8816 Emily Armstrong was one of the women attacking the women at the courthouse in the Danny Masterson trial. She was threatening the people who spoke out against Danny, too. She is a Scientologist Psycho. To have her leading the band, when Chester was unalived for daring to speak out against s3x cults like NEXIUM, is an insult to the memory and legacy of Chester Bennington Linkin Park ended the day Chester was murdered. If you wanna support people who stand up for r@pists, that's on you. Even her former bandmate called her out on that.

[@musamakeup]

the way Mike is so excited and his smile at the beginning gave me an incredible happiness inside!

[@naynay3710]

Wow, it was so great to hear you spend time praising Mike! Chester was incredible and a legend, but Mike should get some recognition, too, and I have seen a lot more of it lately, thank Heavens! If you'd like to delve into it a little more, check out some things on his Post Traumatic album and the song Already Over, which came out in 2023.

[@joneal0284]

I loved everything about this performance. The genuineness in Mike's "it's good to see you again" opening, Emily's walk to the stage like a fighter coming in to an entrance song, Mike's excitement when she starts singing, the harmonies and exchanges between the two of them, the song as a whole. All of it was awesome

[@angelfigueroa6825]

I love this whole performance, but my favorite part is simply how happy Mike looks the whole time. You can tell he's exstatic to be performing as LP again

[@ChantalMonette]

I saw a comparison of Emily and Chester where they said that Chester screamed and sang with despair, while Emily is filled with Rage. And I think that's such a cool way to see it, and to see how a similar intensity and sound can be brought

[@caiorabelo1]

Elizabeth, she was the reason why i found your channel. This LP live made me go back to hear great old songs from them, and the first video of yours KZbin recommended me was your first time listening to Chester. I loved your reactions to it and followed you at the very first one. Your reactions to music are touching and now i am in love with watching you! ❤

[@bigorange2082]

This was recommended to me. The Given up reaction.

[@brunopombo8579]

Like it or not.. her voice is awesome and this music.. addictive ! good job !

[@energythief]

This is an amazing song, and such a great video. The way she walks up to the stage instead of starting on it just builds the anticipation, and that promise is fulfilled when she starts singing and they harmonize on the chorus. Chills every time I watch it.

[@buggz8889]

This is one of those songs that as soon as I heard it I knew it was gonna be stuck in my head for weeks and weeks and weeks and sure enough

[@Dekaar]

majorly appreciate that you're actually looking at the live version of the song rather than the recorded polished version. shows so much more interest and care for the actual singer rather than the production value

[@shirazzza]

I love Emily & think she's a great choice to get this band back on track after such a sad tragic time. She brings energy & that's what they needed

[@JoshieMadhatt]

The biggest selling point for me is how much chemistry she and Mike have. When they harmonize it's absolutely perfect, and Mike looks SOOOOO happy to be back

[@Velkairiwyth]

This new phase reminds me SO much of when Floor joined Nightwish. Fresh start, Sound, amazing chemistry on the stage and it just feels so wholesome

[@SweetOddBoi]

As someone who never got into Linkin Park back in the day I'm SO IN with Emily's voice. Gonna check out the classics with Chester but I'm really looking forward to getting into the band and seeing their new stuff with Emily, love it all already.

[@michaelngiam6270]

I really liked this video for a few reasons: 1. Discussion on how singing with the voice/breath can help with phrasing in music. Would really love to hear more on how your singing experience helps phrasing/musicality in your piano playing :) 2. Addressing art vs artist - there's no easy answer. 3. Challenge in replacing a member of the band, at a human level. 4. Harmony of the vocals. 5. Distortion technique.

[@T-Edits99]

Geez this was a great surprise. This is the first video I’ve seen of yours. Your thoughts and analysis are seriously so interesting. I’ve never been able to put into words what I think about certain artists voices, but you make it all make sense! I really like Emily and I’m so hyped for more LP!!

[@robertmcdonald5857]

Every time I hear her sing it gives me goosebumps.

[@jeremyjulkowski4844]

I'm so damn happy that Likin Park is back! Emily is a fantastic addition to the group! She is absolutely nails it!

[@Ryan_Crown]

So loved your reaction to this song! And you did it the day after they released their 3rd single, Over Each Other - another amazing song further showcasing Emily's amazing voice. Can't wait for you to react to that one!

[@echoes2133]

They just release their third single "Over Each Other" on the 24th it is really good and worth a look. I was watching the live when she came in she sounded exactly like she does here don't think their is any production on her voice.

[@LionelRedelinghuys]

This is what I love about Linkin Park. They are authentic. They know who they are and their sound will always be Linkin Park no matter who leaves of joins. Emily is a fantastic addition. Not to replace chester, but to be authentic Linkin Park.

[@holly6157]

Exactly. I didn't need the sound to be the same as when Chester was around; all I've ever looked for in Linkin Park's music is authenticity and catharsis.

[@gionjasplaza3743]

Emily's and Mike's voice compliment each other just like Chester and Mike in a different way.

[@AlejandroDiazadiaz201]

Chester was the angst of youth. Emily is the rage of adulthood

[@reddragonlegacy]

Speaking of "rage" Emily Armstrong was one of the women attacking the women at the courthouse in the Danny Masterson Case. She is a Scientologist Psycho. To have her leading the band, when Chester was unalived for daring to speak out against s3x cults like NEXIUM, is an insult to his memory. I don't support them anymore. Can't support a band that supports Cults and r@pists.

[@MrTolarindr]

Killer description!

[@reddragonlegacy]

@AlejandroDiazadiaz201 Emily Armstrong was one of the women attacking the women at the courthouse in the Danny Masterson case. She is a Scientologist Psycho. To have her leading the band, when Chester was unalived for daring to speak out against s3x cults like NEXIUM, is an insult to the memory and legacy of Chester Bennington Linkin Park ended the day Chester was murdered. If you wanna support people who stand up for r@pists, that's on you. Even her former bandmate called her out on that.

[@varunprakash5]

Spot on

[@grahamokeefe9406]

Her rage should be at herself for supporting scientology and the preditors it protects.

[@brittanymyrick3321]

This song gives me chills throughout my whole body. Makes me teary-eyed due to happiness. Emilees voice cuts like glass just like Chester's voice did. Chester will never be replaced. R.IP. Emilee is an amazing singer. She is a perfect fit for this new LP era. 💚🖤🤘🤘💋

[@ChopBassMan]

Thank you for doing this video Elizabeth! "The Emptiness Machine" was the first song I listened to of the new Linkin Park lineup - while I was listening I immediately thought to ask you to analyze the song - both Mike Shinoda and Emily Armstrong are sooo good. I think that Mike's voice has really matured and Emily simply blew me away! ❤ Again, thank you!!❤

[@cornbredx]

Emily was super nervous during this performance because this was the very first introduction to her being in the band. The people in this room (in the video) are Linkin Park super fans. They did not know this was going to be a concert, didnt know there would be a new song, but they suspected they would introduce a new snger. So, Emily is under immense pressure during this entire concert because she doesn't know yet what the fans will think or whats coming. Of course, despite a few mess ups, she did an amazing job. Overall I think the right people are appreciating this Linkin Park revival. The haters aren't showing up to the sold out concerts as far as I know. Because the internet isn't reality. It's important to remember that.

[@metalmark1214]

In memory of Paul Di'Anno (5/17/58 - 10/21/24), former singer of Iron Maiden, I'd recommend doing either Strange World (studio) or Remember Tomorrow 1980 Live. RIP Paul

[@BrandonWestfall]

Nah

[@paulriddle7818]

No Iron Maiden or Wraithchild?

[@rikardottosson1272]

21/10/2024?

[@MrEvolcire]

Killers, on of my favorites of all time.

[@HadrianLP]

Elizabeth, thank you SO much for calling attention so beautifully to Mike's soulful performance during the first verse and chorus. I have been watching reaction after reaction since day one, just soaking up the vicarious joy that this song brings the band's fanbase. A lot of folks tend to notice his smile, and the genuine side of it that you pointed to. Until your analysis really forced me to listen, and watch, I had completely and consistently missed the beauty of that later line. Granted, it's because I've been wrapped up in the song every time, as I truly love it from beginning to end, but ... your take gave my appreciation of this performance a hitherto (seemingly) impossible 4th dimension. Seriously, thank you for the service you do fans and artists alike by bringing so much care and attention to detail.

[@kc290190]

Noone can ever replace Chester, Thanks to Emily and Colin Linkin Park can continue its legacy and give us great music. Thanks to Rob aswell.

[@briangarrett3322]

I'm happy to see them perform again. I liked them for years. Now my son is into them. His favorite band and we both love Emily. She is a great fit. Thank you 😊 for reviewing this song! Love your work!

[@davidparsonsmisc]

I've never had any personal interaction with Mike Shinoda, but he seems like one of the most pure and genuine people in music. Like you pointed out from his smile, there is an undeniable love and respect for the fanbase of Linkin Park.

[@mw5360]

I'd recommend the 1hour Zane Lowe interview with him, and then the rest of the band with Emily. It's so damn good and interesting.

[@varunprakash5]

@@mw5360now I’ll watch for sure, now that you’ve mentioned

[@TheWomble82]

I remember the livestreams he was doing during lockdown, just playing about with music and chatting with the fans. Good times.

[@tubafishy]

I had a personal interaction with him last year after the Meteora|20 Livestream event (I was in attendance live). They told us no meet & greets, don't bring anything to sign, they're on a strict schedule, etc. A few of us decided to hang back behind the venue anyway, and when he came out none of us wanted to approach but he told us to come to him and that it was ok--he even made traffic in the alley stop for us to cross 🥹 Before he left he made sure everyone there was good (as in got a photo and an autograph), and his security told us if it weren't for them he'd be there all day with us. So yeah, you are right on. I will never get over just how NORMAL he was. Zero pretenses, zero ego, zero bravado. Just Mike.

[@PenneySounds]

I've never met him, but I have had an interaction with him. After the 2011 Tsunami in Japan, Music for Relief put out a compilation album to raise money, and Mike included a track called "Issho Ni". I followed his blog at the time, and when he posted the track there, those people whose "blades are sharpened with precision" came out of the woodwork like they always do and complained that the track wasn't good enough, that it started too slow, that it was an instrumental with no vocals, and so on. But his response was to spin it into something positive. He invited people to remix the track however they wanted and post their creations in the comments, and then he made a new post picking his 5 favourites. Mine was one of them, even though it was a pretty modest edit using pieces from other LP tracks. People always complain every time he puts something out, but instead of getting angry, he tries to turn it into an opportunity for community and collaboration. Personally, my read of him is that it's in his nature to jump to anger about these things and he has spent his life consciously cultivating healthier ways of dealing with these situations. It strikes me as a very practiced thing he's worked hard at for a long time. I relate to this, because I had a lot of anger problems when I was young, and he describes similar things in some of his lyrics, especially a Fort Minor track he released called "Strange Things". The other thing is, it seems that this band got hit by enormous fame and success so fast and hard that it kind of never got a chance to sink in. Basically in 1999-2000, they went from writing music in a storage unit, so recording in a professional studio, totally unsure if their album would get any attention, and then they went on tour and played a bunch of shows, and when they got back from tour, they were the biggest music act on the planet. It never had time to go to their heads. So they've always been a rare example of people who were incredibly famous, but weren't "celebrities". Mike even did an art show called "Glorious Excess" exploring the bizarre phenomenon of "celebrity". They've always behaved like regular guys who like making music and putting on shows but don't see themselves as above anybody. There's a great video you can find of Mike having a backstage conversation before a show with members of the Linkin Park Underground, and one of them mentions that they drove for hours just for that meetup, but wouldn't be staying for the show because they didn't have tickets, and Mike just goes "You don't have a ticket? We'll get you a ticket", and they say their parents are waiting outside in the car, and he just goes "Ok. We'll get them tickets too". And I guess this kind of thing is so routine that the tour manager or whatever who is with Mike just says to the whole group that anyone who doesn't have a ticket to see the show will be given a ticket. Mike doesn't care about money, he just wants people to have a good time together.

[@amnforge]

I always love seeing your videos. You always explain your thoughts so well but you wouldn't have to say even one word because your facial expressions speak for you; Totally genuine.

[@ariallla]

Mike's solo album Post Traumatic, released after we lost Chester, is ALL bangers. one of my all time faves. his words, his lyrics, you will want to give him all the hugs.

[@hinthecage4928]

the way you were talking about mikes consonants and overall vocal style was very interesting. i love that they are back and i love this song it grew on me so much after i while. the message is great and true. they are back, emily is amazing!

[@Lostintheechopk25]

Mike Underrated Shinoda. Been saying this since 2007, that man sounds incredible while clean singing. Growing up while I loved Chester's vocals, when I heard the song "No Roads Left" for the first time, it broke me. I was in tears, the raw emotions Mike brought from his clean singing. Damn. Post traumatic album has a lot of his clean vocals filled with raw emotions. He is really a jack of all trades.

[@avoidralph]

I so love that you reacted to this song!! YOU ARE THE BEST!

[@SigTheSauceMan]

Man... Linkin Park's return is such an... emotional and packed event. The fanbase being divided between so many things... between whether they feel it was right for someone to succeed Chester, between how they feel about Emily's Scientology background, between how they feel about the Bennington family's feelings on Emily and LP. LP's return definitely wasn't a small deal. As for How I personally feel about Emily... I say that if you made a Venn diagram about Chester vs. Emily's vocals, that overlapping section would be pretty big. There's *something* in Emily's singing that's extremely similar to Chester's. Not in a way that intends to compare her to him, but that her voice has some similar property that evokes a very similar feeling. Also, Emily was nervous af in this performance. Her next performance (LP's first public show after this, in LA) was massively better, and she's only gotten better since. It's gonna take quite some time for her to reach Chester's level of power, if she ever does. But she's definitely doing well.

[@bunker1213]

Did Chester have "the power" from the beginning or did he grow in to it?

[@SigTheSauceMan]

@@bunker1213 Maybe not what he had later, but he started out pretty strong as-is.

[@bellabliss1860]

it's not bennington's family, it's a couple of close parts of his bloodline who chester may or may not have had his own issues with. and honestly it's extremely irresponsible of big media platforms and paparazzi vultures to put the spotlight on them while they're still grieving and not getting the help they need.

[@christopherfullam]

​@@SigTheSauceManI remember him being pitchy AF during the first year or two of live shows.

[@natehibl6825]

I'm so glad you reviewed this song and performance. Gives a great dive into the new voice and sound

[@kevin24lg]

I didn't realize until just now how much Mike sounds like Chester in the opening sequence. I can totally imagine Chester singing that part; it feels very intentional to me that Mike is singing like this as a kind of "passing of the torch" to Emily.

[@BikesRGuid]

Always love the insight you and Chris Liepe bring to vocal reactions - hands down best on the internet!

[@MarkBtvd]

I don't think I've ever heard Linkin Park before, so I don't have the history with the prior singer to understand the negative comments I've seen. For me, this was an amazing song with amazing vocals, and if old fans can't take it, then I really hope the band, and Emily in particular, get new ones. Emily deserves the support.

[@Beatriz-h1t]

Chester was really loved and he was like an wonderful singer, frotnman and human being, and he sadly passed away due to suicide, so the band was on a hiatus for 7 years. But even before all of that, LP has always been a band that challenged their fans. Their first two albuns had usually heavier songs with rap + screaming, but after that they started to switch it up even more (bc they were always experimenting with their music) and some fans are so attached to these first two albuns (that came out in 2001 and 2003, mind you) that they cant let go and enjoy whenever they do something different. Is kinda insane if you think about it, but all of this + the fact is a person kinda "replacing" chester made this hard to swallow for some, but thats their problem

[@MarkBtvd]

@@Beatriz-h1t Mmm ... Understood. Thanks for the info. I've been following The Warning and there seems to be some grumbling amongst the fans about TW's latest album, for much the same reasons.

[@MrZequal]

I grew up with Linkin Park on the music scene, and remember the first time I heard One step closer. It was good, I mean really good. But... The following singles LP put out after that divided people in 2 camps, the fans and the ones that said that One step closer showed how good they could have been. For me One step closer was the peak of LP, until now. I really like this new LP 👍

[@pinkpixie2]

She has ties to scientology, a lot of people are struggling with that.

[@MarkBtvd]

@@pinkpixie2 Understood.

[@stevemuzak8526]

This is the greatest band comeback in the history of music. No one expected that. I have seen LP live and I was shocked how amazing Emily Armstrong really is. Damn brilliant singer.

[@holdyourfire74]

This was the perfect introduction to the new era. Mike starting off giving us the familiar. Yes he usually rapped, but he had a few solos in their catalog along with backing Chester a ton. Then introducing us to Emily who sounds great in the 2nd verse before just blowing us away dropping that chorus. Heavy Is The Crown gave us the old HT/Meteora sound with Mike rapping and Emily screaming. Their new song just dropped yesterday, Over Each Other, and is a showcase for Emily showing off both her power and softness. I guess you’d call it more of a power ballad. So ready for the new album!!

[@nordicnomad7378]

From what I’ve heard, she’s gotten even better. I cried when I heard this song and I think she fits in so well. I’m seeing them in Texas in a couple weeks.

[@engineeringtheapocalypse]

You're one of the very few reactors to give attention to Mike's singing - which is something I really like about "The emptiness machine" and was really surprised by when I first heard it.

[@PiotrMaksimczyk]

You Are Your Own Charisma! Your reactions, emotions, empathy, experience, professionalism in the analysis of songs, texts contained in them, you pay attention to everything - the stage movements of the performers, their involvement in the excellent work they do, how you appreciate them, all the details, you don't focus on one thing, you take everything into account, you appreciate the artists, and that, in my opinion, makes it You are a professional and, honestly, for me, you are great for the way you treat people who really deserve such honors! I respect you and best regards

[@lincolngifford30]

Next Linkin Park song you should do is “Friendly Fire” if I remember correctly, it was an unreleased song from before Chester left this world and they decided to release it with their Papercuts album

[@eliaildruido]

In this piece she gave us, a variety incredible of sound. Breath control and over all, the right way to scream without forcing voice. I really love this piece the way it's constructed and arranged. Thanks

[@everlastingray4366]

Every time there's a scream singer . . . . Elizabeth: need to shove a camera down their throat, stat 😂

[@Xekshek]

I can't wait for you hopefully listen to their newer live stuff when they toured! She improves SO much and does a fantastic job with the older songs.

[@desmoheli]

I still think they didnt even use all of Emilly´s vocal talent for now. Listen to Dead Sara songs Mona Lisa and Lemon Scent, where she shows so much of variety. I listened to Dead Sara for a long time, I am really happy she and LP found each other.

[@ImAlsoMerobiba]

I can't wait until she does a Dead Sara analysis.

[@jackym4891]

I really appreciate how you worded the challenges of filling up a gap like what Chester left behind. I saw and still see so many people just spewing hatred towards Emily and can just get so angry. A total lack of respect for the amount of courage it takes to be that person to fill that gap. And for Mike and the rest of the band who had to make the decision to go on this new direction. I am just glad they are making new music again.

[@whatsleft5059]

I was one of those who thought the band couldn't go on without Chester. But Emily proved me wrong. I think she is brilliant and her voice and pressence is a perfect fit for the band. They all sound amazing together!

[@Saimeren]

I grow more in love with Lizzy every day! This is a fantastic reaction/review/analysis channel, and I love what Elizabeth brings to the conversation about the different bands/songs she reacts to.

[@brunoassumpcao5529]

I'm a business analyst and i'm currently researching on media and sound data mining to visually interpret sound. The way you analyze every particular variation in the singer's voice, tempo, stage stand and even breathing is very inspiring to me, thank you for that!

[@MJHiteshew]

I love so much that you get it. Talking about Mike’s vocals, watching you watch Emily walk out. You are so authentic.

[@Kevin-wj1jy8hu1t]

I don’t know much of Linkin Park material but this was an awesome review, opened another musical door for me, thank you

[@terrahawk1977]

Start at the beginning

[@Kevin-wj1jy8hu1t]

Tnx Terrahawk, I think I shall, I just love discovering new stuff

[@NaveenPaudel]

​@@Kevin-wj1jy8hu1twas was LP SONG not even got nomination on billboard even though there were so much views on spotify 200MN crossing and youtube 51MN

[@MuckShuvlinMick]

I remember getting a notification that this stream concert was live. I enjoyed it very much!!

[@99sixstring]

the more you´re listen to the lyrics, the more you think that Mike knew exactly what´s going to happen right after their comeback, introducing Emily, the re-start. "it´s been decided how we lose" - it doesn´t matter whoever they may have introduced as a new singer, they will be reduced to Chester, his voice, his appearance. And Chesters family won´t embrace the legacy, but bashing the "new singer". It´s scary, that after a month or two, we know exactly that happened just like predicted in the lyrics, in every point of view. I´m glad they´re back.

[@Meosychs]

I'm glad they are back too. As a lifelong LP fan it was almost life destructing when Chester passed but his message was always about belonging and acceptance and I think he'd be happy that his extended family (LP) was finally able to move on and carry on his and their own legacy.

[@jefffarmer0311]

Totally rocking some absolutely terrific music!! I'm all in for them for sure, and I absolutely them all the absolute best in😅 making more amazing music!! 🤘🎸🎤 🥁

[@metalmark1214]

Halloween theme songs - Ozzy Bark at the Moon, King Diamond - The Family Ghost (live at Filmore 2018), Lovebites - Winds Of Transylvania [VLADLOVE Version] MV, Frozen Crown - Embrace the Night, Volbeat - The Devil's Bleeding Crown - Live at Tusindarsskoven, Odense 2015, Nocturna - New Evil (Official Video) Unlucky Morpheus「Black Pentagram」"XIII" Live at Toyosu PIT, OLV, Iron Maiden - The Number of the Beast 1982 Live If you are a metal head, you most certainly will like these.

[@MetalPersonJ]

"Frozen Crown - Embrace the Night," My man. Black Heart is also spooky.

[@3xodus]

Great picks but if you want to caver all bases, being a ice nine kills fan is great during Halloween season

[@user-sv5ce7ce6j]

Chester and Emily are too extreme talents in their own right. I think the explanation you give of the difficulties of filling the shoes of Chester is spot on, you cannot replace, you can go somewhere else, in a slightly different direction, but from somewhere familiar. Love them both, and Linkin Park are back!