Skid Row ProfileAfter more than two years away from the stage and conducting an extensive global search, Skid Row have announced that they’ve found their new singer.
In March 2024, Erik Grönwall, the Swedish singer who had performed with the American rockers since early 2022, made a “tough decision” to leave the band, citing health concerns.
In a joint statement with the band, Grönwall wrote that the rigorous nature of being in a full-time touring band was too much to keep up with as he was immunocompromised following treatment against leukemia.
It was an amicable split between Grönwall and his bandmates, who wished “nothing but the best” for him and his health. However, Skid Row had four more US dates lined up and needed a vocalist to take over, so Halestorm’s Lzzy Hale stepped in.
Now, they’ve found a permanent singer, Justin Sargent.
Hailing from Skid Row’s home city of New Jersey, he’s a singer and actor with experience on Broadway (Hamilton, Rock of Ages, Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark), performing with John Legend, Alice Cooper, Sara Bareilles, Dee Snider, and more, as well as having previously been a guest singer with Air Supply.
A press release notes that Sargent caught Skid Row’s attention last year with his powerful vocals, engaging stage presence, and natural connection to their music.
Speaking about his new role, Sargent said, “I’ve been singing Skid Row songs for years, but never imagined I’d actually be joining the band! It’s an incredible honour to be part of something with such a legendary history.
“The chemistry and energy we’ve found together over the past several months has been amazing. I have tremendous respect for the band’s legacy, but I’m even more excited about what lies ahead. I can’t wait to get out there, connect with the fans, and give them everything I’ve got. Let’s go!”
Skid Row’s Rachel Bolan explained, “Honestly, for me, it felt like he had been here from the beginning as soon as he walked in the room. He was one of us. A lifer. Then he sang with so much power and conviction, it blew me away. It was amazing.”
The band’s Snake Sabo added, “We were so fortunate to receive so many audition submissions from singers wanting to front the band. We wanna thank everyone for their time and effort. There are some truly amazing singers out there!
“But I think that the moment Justin walked in the door, we all kind of knew he was the guy. Everything about him—his voice, his attitude, his demeanour—it all just fit. We can’t wait to hit the ground running and get back to doing what we love to do.”
To celebrate the addition of Justin Sargent, Skid Row have unveiled a cover of The Who’s classic anthem, Won’t Get Fooled Again. Check it out below.
