Emily Armstrong is an American singer and songwriter best known as the powerhouse vocalist of the rock band Dead Sara — and, since September 2024, as the co-lead vocalist of Linkin Park. With her raw, emotive voice and commanding stage presence, Armstrong has earned recognition as one of rock’s most compelling frontwomen. This article explores her journey from the Los Angeles music scene to one of the biggest stages in modern rock.
Early life and background
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Emily Armstrong developed a passion for music at an early age. She began singing and playing guitar as a teenager, drawing inspiration from classic rock, punk and alternative artists. By her mid-teens she was already writing songs and performing, honing the powerful vocal style that would become her trademark.
Dead Sara: the breakthrough years
In 2002, Armstrong co-founded the rock band Dead Sara with guitarist Siouxsie Medley. The band quickly built a reputation in the Los Angeles live scene for its high-energy performances and Armstrong’s commanding vocals, which drew comparisons to some of rock’s greatest singers.
Dead Sara released a series of EPs and studio albums — including their self-titled debut (2012), Pleasure to Meet You (2015) and Ain’t It Tragic (2021) — earning critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. The band toured extensively, sharing stages with major acts and cementing Armstrong’s reputation as a formidable live performer.
Joining Linkin Park
In September 2024, Armstrong was announced as the new co-lead vocalist of Linkin Park, joining Mike Shinoda as the band returned from a seven-year hiatus following the death of Chester Bennington in 2017. The announcement came with the release of the comeback single “The Emptiness Machine” and the news of a new album, From Zero, released in November 2024.
Armstrong’s debut performances with Linkin Park were met with widespread praise, as fans and critics alike noted how her powerful, emotive delivery honoured the band’s legacy while bringing a fresh energy to its sound. The band’s subsequent world tour introduced her to a global audience.
Musical style and influence
Armstrong’s vocal style is defined by its raw power, grit and emotional range — capable of moving from vulnerable, stripped-back passages to full-throated rock anthems. Her influences span punk, grunge and classic rock, and her songwriting often explores themes of resilience, self-discovery and empowerment.
As a female frontwoman in a male-dominated genre, Armstrong has become a role model for aspiring musicians, frequently speaking about authenticity and perseverance in the music industry.
The future of Emily Armstrong
With Linkin Park’s return and Dead Sara’s continued legacy, Armstrong stands at the centre of one of rock’s most exciting chapters. Fans can expect new music, global tours and collaborations as she continues to evolve as an artist — balancing the demands of a stadium-filling band with the raw, independent spirit that defined her early career.
Conclusion
Emily Armstrong’s journey — from the Los Angeles club scene with Dead Sara to fronting one of the world’s biggest rock bands — is a testament to talent, determination and authenticity. With her powerful voice and fearless stage presence, she has carved out a unique place in modern rock history, and her story is still being written.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Emily Armstrong?
Emily Armstrong is an American singer and songwriter, best known as the vocalist of the rock band Dead Sara and — since September 2024 — the co-lead vocalist of Linkin Park.
What band was Emily Armstrong in before Linkin Park?
Before joining Linkin Park, Armstrong was the lead vocalist of Dead Sara, the Los Angeles rock band she co-founded with guitarist Siouxsie Medley in 2002.
When did Emily Armstrong join Linkin Park?
Emily Armstrong was announced as Linkin Park’s new co-lead vocalist in September 2024, when the band ended its seven-year hiatus with the single “The Emptiness Machine” and the album From Zero.
What is Emily Armstrong’s vocal style known for?
Armstrong is known for her powerful, emotive voice — capable of raw, gritty rock delivery as well as vulnerable, melodic passages. Her commanding stage presence has drawn comparisons to rock’s greatest frontwomen and frontmen.
Has Emily Armstrong released solo music?
Armstrong is best known for her work with Dead Sara and Linkin Park rather than solo releases. Her discography centres on Dead Sara’s albums and EPs, along with Linkin Park’s From Zero era.
What can fans expect from Emily Armstrong in the future?
Fans can look forward to new Linkin Park music, global tours and potential collaborations, as Armstrong continues to balance stadium-scale success with the independent spirit of her Dead Sara roots.