Photo Credit: Krishta Abruzzini
Foreigner’s long-time vocalist Kelly Hansen has announced he’s stepping down from the position after the band’s summer tour concludes. Guitarist Luis Maldonado will step into the role.
Hansen announced the news during a special appearance on the NBC reality show, ‘The Voice.’ “Being the voice of Foreigner has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Hansen said about stepping down. “But it’s time to pass the mic. Luis has the voice, the energy, and the soul to carry these songs into the future. I couldn’t be prouder to hand this off to him.”
Foreigner Leader & Founder Mick Jones also commented on the passing of the torch, sharing his approval of the move. “In 1976, my goal was to assemble the finest group of musicians I could find. Results have shown that it worked! About thirty years later, Jason Bonham encourages me to do it all over again and create a brand-new Foreigner, and the magic is still there.”
“I was especially fortunate in the choice of lead singer. Kelly Hansen is one of the best front men in our business and over the last twenty years he has breathed new life into our songs. His boundless energy and flawless talent have helped us climb the mountain and set up the opportunity for Foreigner vocalist and guitarist Luis Maldonado to bring us home.”
“I wish Kelly great happiness in his next endeavors after our summer tour and I look forward to welcoming Luis to his new position. Luis was my choice as a guitarist and he has already shown us what he can do on lead vocals by fronting the band in South America to incredible reviews. He will soon lead the charge and carry us forward to new heights,” Jones concludes.
Before Luis joined Foreigner, he was best known as the guitarist for Train and for his work with Lisa Marie Presley. He now steps into the spotlight as the lead singer of Foreigner, bringing a rich blend of vocal power, stage charisma, and musical versatility. “This music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember,” says Maldonado. “I’m ready to honor Foreigner’s legacy and bring my heart to every performance.”
Kelly Hansen joined Foreigner in 2005 and helped revitalize the band’s live presence. Their current tour continues through 2025 and will feature both Hansen and Maldonado on stage in the symbolic handoff. Next year is the band’s 50th anniversary of its formation in New York in 1976.
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