Linkin Park, a renowned band, made a significant mark at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards. Their single “The Emptiness Machine” from the latest album From Zero was performed, with Mike Shinoda and new co-vocalist Emily Armstrong sharing an energetic duet that closed out the ceremony. This was one of their first shows with Armstrong after the band's first album without late lead singer Chester Bennington.

Linkin Park's New Chapter at the Billboard Awards

Linkin Park's First Performance with Emily Armstrong

Pre-taped from their Nov. 15 show in São Paulo, Brazil, this performance was a highlight. Mike Shinoda and Emily Armstrong's chemistry was palpable as they took the stage together. The energy they brought was infectious, leaving the audience in awe. This new iteration of the band was already making waves with their first awards show performance. The NRJ Music Awards in November had also seen them in action, further solidifying their comeback.The decision to continue the group without Chester Bennington was a bold one. In early September, Shinoda announced the news to fans during a livestream. He expressed that this was a very special day for the band. “In the role of Chester Bennington, this afternoon is each of you.” This statement showed the band's determination to move forward while still honoring Bennington's legacy.

The Controversy Surrounding Emily Armstrong's Addition

Replacing Chester Bennington, who tragically passed away by suicide in 2017 after the release of Linkin Park's album One More Light, was met with criticism. Bennington's son Jaime and some fans were particularly vocal, partly due to Armstrong's ties to the Church of Scientology and her friendship with Danny Masterson, who was convicted of raping two women.In an Instagram Story shared days after the news of Armstrong's addition, Jaime called out Shinoda, stating that he was erasing his “father's life and legacy in real time” by hiring his “friend of many years” to step in. He expressed his disappointment and concern.Two days before Jaime's comment, Armstrong had released a statement on social media. She expressed her regret over supporting Masterson. “Several years ago, I was asked to support someone I considered a friend at a court appearance and went to one early hearing as an observer. Soon after, I realized that I shouldn't have. I always try to see good in people, and I misjudged him. I have never spoken with him since. Unimaginable details emerged and he was later found guilty.”

Other Performances at the Billboard Music Awards

The Billboard Music Awards ceremony was a star-studded event with performances from various artists. Coldplay, Fuerza Regida, Jelly Roll, Megan Moroney, Teddy Swims, Tyla, Seventeen, Shaboozey, and Stray Kids also took the stage, adding to the excitement.Linkin Park was up for five Billboard awards and managed to win top rock duo/group and top hard rock artist. This recognition further solidified their status in the music industry.Billboard Music Awards producer Dick Clark Productions is owned by Penske Media Eldridge, a joint venture between Penske Media Corporation and Eldridge that also owns The Hollywood Reporter. This connection adds another layer to the event and the band's performance.