Re-emerging rock icons Linkin Park have left Perth off their limited 2026 Australian tour schedule, disappointing local fans who have eagerly awaited the band’s return. The announcement, made on Monday, revealed that the “From Zero World Tour” will include stops in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney in early March, marking the band’s first national shows since 2013.
The decision not to include Perth has sparked frustration among the city’s rock enthusiasts. Linkin Park last performed in Western Australia at the now-defunct Soundwave Festival in February 2013, sharing the stage with legendary acts such as Metallica, Blink-182, Paramore, and The Offspring.
Fan Reactions and Pleas for Inclusion
Local fans have taken to social media to voice their disappointment and urge tour promoter Live Nation to reconsider the tour schedule. One frustrated fan lamented,
“Ffs seriously? Perth misses out again.”
Another fan, despite residing in Brisbane, expressed solidarity with Perth’s rock community, stating,
“I live in Brisbane but honestly Perth needs some love. Can we petition for these bands to bless the west coast? ✍🏼”
The absence of Perth from the tour itinerary has reignited discussions about the city’s exclusion from major music events, a recurring issue that has left many fans feeling overlooked.
Linkin Park’s Legacy and Evolution
Linkin Park gained international fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s as pioneers of the alternative rock genre, known for their innovative fusion of rap, nu metal, pop rock, and electronic rock. The band’s impact on the music scene has been profound, with hits like “In the End” and “Numb” becoming anthems for a generation.
In May of this year, the band released the Deluxe Edition of their “From Zero” album, featuring their latest single “Let You Fade.” This release marked a new chapter for Linkin Park, as they continue to evolve their sound and reach new audiences.
New Line-Up and Future Prospects
One significant change in the band’s line-up for the upcoming Australian tour is the addition of co-lead vocalist Emily Armstrong. Armstrong joined the group in September 2024, following a seven-year hiatus, and has been instrumental in the band’s re-emergence. She replaces the late Chester Bennington, whose tragic death in 2017 left a lasting impact on the music world.
Alongside Armstrong, the band now consists of co-vocalist, keyboardist, and guitarist Mike Shinoda, lead guitarist Brad Delson, DJ Joe Hahn, bassist Dave Farrell, and drummer Colin Brittain. This new formation has been well-received by fans and critics alike, who are eager to see how the band continues to innovate and honor Bennington’s legacy.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Touring Decisions
The exclusion of Perth from Linkin Park’s tour schedule highlights broader issues within the music industry regarding the distribution of live performances across Australia. Perth, often overlooked in favor of the more populous East Coast cities, faces challenges in attracting major international acts, a situation that has been exacerbated by logistical and financial considerations.
As fans continue to advocate for more inclusive tour schedules, the music industry may need to reassess its approach to ensure that all regions have access to live performances. This could involve exploring new venues, adjusting ticket pricing, or leveraging digital platforms to reach wider audiences.
PerthNow has reached out to Live Nation for further comment on Linkin Park’s Australian tour schedule. As the band prepares to embark on their highly anticipated tour, the conversation around equitable access to live music events remains as relevant as ever.
